Spread the love

There’s something special about the smell of chicken and gravy recipe simmering on the stove. It takes you back to family dinners, cozy weekends, or simply a moment of warmth on a cold day. This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating moments that matter. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a meal that feels like home. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love The Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Perfect for Any Occasion

When life gets hectic, having a dish that can adapt to any situation is a lifesaver. This chicken and gravy recipe fits the bill. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding picky eaters, or simply treating yourself to something comforting, this meal has you covered. Its flavors are universally loved, so you’ll never go wrong serving it to family or friends. Plus, it’s easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight but delicious enough for a special occasion.

Easy Ingredients

One of the best things about this recipe is how approachable it is. The ingredients are common items that you may already have stocked in your kitchen. From butter to chicken broth to simple seasonings, there’s nothing intimidating here. This makes the recipe budget-friendly and accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You don’t need exotic spices or hard-to-find items—just simple, fresh ingredients that come together in the best way possible.

Comfort in Every Bite

Few meals bring a sense of calm like chicken and gravy recipe. The tender chicken melts in your mouth, while the savory gravy coats every bite with warmth and flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every moment, whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones. Paired with your favorite sides, it’s a meal that brings joy to the table and keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken And Gravy Recipe

Core Ingredients

The backbone of this dish is its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Choose bone-in pieces for maximum flavor or boneless cuts for quicker cooking. Chicken thighs work well for their juicy texture, while chicken breasts provide a leaner option.
Chicken broth or stock: This liquid gold is what gives the gravy its rich taste. Go for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Butter and flour: These pantry staples are essential for creating a smooth roux that thickens the gravy to perfection.
Onion and garlic: These aromatics add depth and complexity to the dish. Sautéing them releases their natural sweetness.
Herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, or rosemary elevate the flavors, but dried versions work well in a pinch.
Heavy cream (optional): Adding cream gives the gravy a velvety texture, perfect for those who love a rich finish.

Optional Additions

While the core ingredients are enough to create a delicious dish, you can customize it with these extras:

Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring a hearty, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Carrots and peas: Adding these vegetables transforms the dish into a one-pot meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

How to Make Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preparing the chicken is the foundation of this recipe, and it’s where all the flavor begins. Start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. This step ensures the chicken will sear properly, giving it that golden-brown crust that’s so important for flavor. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer. Paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning all work well.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken in the skillet, skin side down if using bone-in pieces. Let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t clean the skillet—you’ll be using those flavorful browned bits for the gravy.

Step 2: Build the Gravy

Now comes the heart of the dish: the gravy. In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in two tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. The mixture should be smooth and slightly golden. This process only takes about 1-2 minutes.

Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. As the liquid heats up, it will start to thicken. Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, letting them cook in the sauce for 2-3 minutes. Add your herbs, whether fresh sprigs of thyme or a pinch of dried rosemary. Let the gravy simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the bubbling gravy. Spoon some gravy over the top of the chicken to keep it moist. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through while soaking up all the flavors of the gravy.

Tips for Success

Always whisk the roux until smooth before adding liquid to avoid lumps.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
If your gravy is too thick, thin it out with a splash of stock or water.

What to Serve with Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Classic Pairings

The beauty of chicken and gravy recipe lies in its versatility, and it pairs wonderfully with many sides. Here are a few favorites:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ideal base for soaking up all that delicious gravy. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture or Russets for a fluffier result.
Steamed Rice: Simple white or brown rice provides a neutral canvas that lets the flavors of the chicken and gravy recipe shine.
Buttered Egg Noodles: These are a classic choice for a reason. The soft, buttery noodles complement the richness of the gravy perfectly.

Vegetable Sides for Chicken and Gravy Recipe

For a balanced meal, pair your chicken and gravy recipe with some veggies:

Roasted broccoli or asparagus: These green veggies add a pop of color and a slightly crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy gravy.
Glazed carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.

Bread Options

Don’t forget the bread! It’s essential for soaking up every last bit of gravy:

Flaky biscuits: The buttery layers are perfect for scooping up gravy.
Crusty bread: A fresh loaf of sourdough or French bread adds a satisfying crunch.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers

Chicken and gravy recipe taste just as good the next day, making it a great dish to prepare in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re planning to freeze it, separate the gravy from the chicken to maintain the best texture. Gravy can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the gravy as it warms. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the chicken to dry out.

FAQs About Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes, you can! Using pre-cooked chicken, like a rotisserie chicken, saves time. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the gravy during the final simmer. Since the chicken is already cooked, you only need to heat it through.

How Do I Make This Gluten-Free?

It’s easy to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets. Swap out the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. If using cornstarch, mix it with a bit of cold water before adding it to the gravy to avoid clumping.

Can I Make It Dairy-Free?

Absolutely. Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil. For a creamy finish without heavy cream, use coconut milk or almond milk. These substitutes will still give you a smooth and flavorful gravy.

What Can I Add for More Flavor?

If you want to experiment with the flavors, try adding a splash of soy sauce for umami or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist. Freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of cayenne can also add a subtle kick.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple yet satisfying chicken and gravy recipe that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to bring comfort and joy to your table. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something truly delicious.

Table of Contents