Saucy Smothered Chicken with Parmesan Grits

 Here’s a comforting and delicious recipe for Saucy Smothered Chicken with Parmesan Grits. This dish features tender chicken smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce, served over creamy Parmesan grits.

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Ingredients

For the Smothered Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Parmesan Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water or chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp butter

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 4-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over it. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Make the Parmesan Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil.

Slowly stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the grits, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and thickened.

Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes, until the grits are creamy and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve

Spoon the creamy Parmesan grits onto plates and top with the smothered chicken.

Pour the sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

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Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the chicken broth.

If you prefer a richer texture, substitute some of the water in the grits with more heavy cream or chicken broth.

You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra depth and texture.

Enjoy Saucy Smothered Chicken with Parmesan Grits, a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion!