Pete'S Chicken Thing
A hearty, flavorful chicken dish with a savory gravy and bell pepper accents, perfect for comforting family dinners and pairs well with rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Salt, pepper, and flour the chicken pieces.
- Brown the chicken and onions in a small amount of shortening in a large skillet.
- Add enough water to the skillet to make gravy once the chicken is browned.
- Simmer until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
- Add chopped or sliced bell pepper for flavor.
- Let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Let simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Worcestershire sauce for at least an hour before cooking. If you don't have shortening, butter or oil can be used as a substitute. To add depth, incorporate garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary during the browning process. If you're looking for a quicker option, precooked chicken can also work, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed vegetables like green beans or a fresh salad. This dish also complements well with Southern staples, making it a great addition to your next gathering. For a fun twist, try it alongside Pork Chop Wild Rice Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pete's Chicken Thing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, covering them to prevent drying out. Make sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pete'S Chicken Thing contains roughly 410 calories, with 47g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 827mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and richness to the dish. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as skin-on pieces may take a bit longer to brown and cook through. Make sure to render some of the fat before adding onions for a richer gravy.
What can I use instead of flour for thickening the gravy?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry and add it to the gravy towards the end of cooking. Stir until the desired thickness is achieved.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Pete's Chicken Thing a day ahead. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).