Chicken Thighs Smothered in Onion Gravy with Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food dinner featuring juicy pan-seared chicken thighs covered in rich savory onion gravy, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and tender broccoli. This hearty, homestyle meal delivers classic American comfort flavors perfect for cozy family dinners and satisfying weeknight meals.
Key Takeaways
• Classic comfort food dinner plate
• Juicy chicken with rich onion gravy
• Complete balanced meal in one recipe
• Beginner-friendly cooking method
• Perfect for family-style dinners
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines everything comforting about homemade dinners — tender chicken, silky mashed potatoes, and flavorful gravy that ties everything together. Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful while caramelized onions create a deep, savory sauce that tastes slow-cooked but comes together easily.
Ingredients
Chicken & Onion Gravy
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Mashed Potatoes
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Broccoli
3 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Equipment
Large skillet
Medium pot
Saucepan
Potato masher
Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the potatoes
Place potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. - Prepare broccoli
Steam broccoli florets for 4–5 minutes until tender but bright green. Toss lightly with olive oil and salt. - Season and sear chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. - Cook onions
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes until soft and caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Make gravy
Sprinkle flour over onions and stir for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme. - Simmer chicken
Return chicken to skillet, spoon gravy over top, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender. - Mash potatoes
Drain potatoes and mash with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. - Assemble plates
Serve chicken smothered in onion gravy over mashed potatoes with broccoli on the side.
Tips & Variations
Use boneless thighs for faster cooking.
Add mushrooms to the gravy for deeper flavor.
Use cream instead of milk for extra-rich mashed potatoes.
Add garlic powder to potatoes for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm dinner rolls or a simple side salad. The gravy pairs perfectly with extra potatoes or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen gravy if needed.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 620 per serving
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to prevent drying.
How do I thicken gravy more?
Simmer uncovered longer or add a small cornstarch slurry.
Can this be made ahead?
Yes, flavors deepen after reheating.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes create the creamiest mash.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze chicken and gravy separately for best texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Thighs Smothered in Onion Gravy with Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli is the definition of comforting home cooking. Juicy chicken, rich gravy, creamy potatoes, and fresh vegetables come together to create a satisfying meal perfect for any cozy dinner night.