Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe for Any Occasion

We’re excited to share our easy chicken and gravy recipe. It’s a comfort food perfect for any gathering or meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, we can make a delicious chicken and gravy that everyone will enjoy.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, our recipe will satisfy. Making homemade chicken gravy makes it even more enjoyable. It’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

chicken and gravy recipe

Key Takeaways

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes, Cook Time: 7 hours.
  • 4 skinless chicken breasts are the main ingredient.
  • Delicious chicken and gravy can serve 4 to 8 people.
  • Tasty variations can include cream of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup.
  • High-quality broth enhances the flavor of the homemade chicken gravy.
  • This dish is a hit with a 4.44 rating from 319 votes!

Introducing Our Delicious Chicken and Gravy Recipe

We’re excited to share our easy chicken and gravy recipe. It’s a mix of simplicity and rich flavors. This dish is a classic American comfort food, loved for family dinners and special events.

It’s quick to prepare and cook, making 4 to 6 servings. Ideal for gathering everyone around the dinner table.

best chicken and gravy recipe

In just 15 minutes of prep and 55 minutes of cooking, you get a satisfying meal. Make sure the chicken reaches 75°C (167°F) for the best taste. This recipe works well with different chicken cuts, making it versatile.

Reviews show our chicken and gravy is a hit, with 5-star ratings from 8 users. People love the thick gravy made with veggies. For a faster option, try the Instant Pot version, which cooks in about 30 minutes.

Our chicken is seasoned with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. This recipe is more than just food; it’s about creating special moments at the table.

Why Chicken and Gravy is Perfect for Any Occasion

Chicken and gravy is a favorite in many homes. It brings warmth and comfort, perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner or a big celebration, it pairs well with many sides.

This dish is easy to impress with. A traditional chicken gravy recipe makes chicken taste even better. It goes well with rice or mashed potatoes, pleasing everyone.

Making this dish is quick and easy. It requires just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking. We use fresh herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Chicken and gravy is great for any event. It makes any meal feel like home. It brings people together, enjoying delicious food and each other’s company.

savory chicken gravy

Main Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy

Making homemade chicken gravy starts with picking the right ingredients. Each part is key to getting rich flavors and good textures in our chicken and gravy recipe.

Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken

We like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs. These cuts are tender and soak up flavors well. Searing the chicken first adds more depth to our dish, making every bite tasty. We usually use about 1 pound of chicken for a family meal.

Essential Seasonings for Flavor

Seasoning is where we boost the chicken’s natural taste and make our homemade chicken gravy shine. Important ingredients include:

  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Seasoned salt

This mix not only goes well with the chicken but also makes the gravy taste better. The right mix of these seasonings makes a hearty dish for any time.

homemade chicken gravy

How to Make Homemade Chicken Gravy

Making homemade chicken gravy starts with a good roux. This key element boosts the flavor and texture of the gravy. It makes the gravy a perfect match for our chicken dish.

The Importance of a Good Roux

A roux is made from flour and fat, like butter. We use 40g of unsalted butter. Cooking the flour with butter until it’s light caramel color makes a thickening agent for our gravy.

This step thickens the sauce and adds flavor. It makes the gravy rich and satisfying.

Whisking Techniques for Smooth Gravy

Learning to whisk is crucial for a smooth gravy. We start by adding broth slowly. We use 1 cup of beef stock in this recipe.

Whisking well is important to mix the liquid with the roux. If the gravy is too thick, we add water. We add about ½ cup at a time until it’s right.

This way, the flavors are evenly spread, making the gravy creamy and delicious.

IngredientAmount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 (cut in half to form 4 “steaks”)
Unsalted butter40g
Plain flour2 tbsp
Beef stock1 cup
Thickened cream¼ cup
Worcestershire sauce1 tsp (optional)
Preparation time20 minutes
Cooking time for chicken5-6 minutes
Calories per serving225

Tips for the Best Chicken and Gravy Recipe

To make the perfect chicken and gravy, focus on a few key things. The quality of the broth and the right balance of seasonings are crucial. Here are some tips to make our chicken and gravy crock pot recipe even better.

Using High-Quality Broth

Great gravy starts with top-notch broth. A good chicken broth adds flavor and depth to your dish. Making your own broth is best, but low-sodium store-bought options work too. Mixing chicken and beef broth in a 2:1 ratio makes the flavor richer and pairs well with chicken.

Seasoning Adjustments to Elevate Flavor

Seasoning is key to a great chicken and gravy dish. Experiment with various herbs and spices to discover your favorite flavors. Adding more garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme can make a big difference. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook to get it just right.

IngredientAmount
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts1 ½ lbs (2 large)
Chicken Broth2 cups
Beef Broth½ cup
Butter4 tablespoons
Flour¼ cup
Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt1-2 tablespoons
Worcestershire Sauce1 teaspoon
Seasonings (each)½ teaspoon Onion, Garlic, and Mustard Powder¼ teaspoon Dried Thyme and Ground Sage¼ teaspoon Pepper

Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe Steps

Making our easy chicken and gravy recipe is simple. We’ll show you how to prepare the chicken, make the gravy, and finish cooking. This recipe is great for 4 to 6 people, perfect for family meals or special events.

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by seasoning a pound of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. These spices will make our dish taste amazing. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add three tablespoons of butter. Once melted, put the seasoned chicken in the skillet.

Cook the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Creating the Gravy

While the chicken cooks, we can make the gravy. In a separate saucepan, melt three tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in three tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook for about two minutes, whisking until it turns golden brown.

Then, whisk in two cups of chicken broth slowly. Let the gravy simmer until it thickens, stirring now and then.

Final Cooking Process

Once the chicken is done, put it back in the skillet. Pour the gravy over the chicken and let it cook for 2-3 minutes more. This step helps the chicken soak up the gravy’s flavors. Serve hot and enjoy!

IngredientMeasurement
Chicken Breasts1 lb
Butter6 tbsp
Flour3 tbsp
Chicken Broth2 cups
Salt1/2 tsp
Pepper1/2 tsp
Oregano1/2 tsp
Thyme1/2 tsp
Paprika1 tsp
Onion Powder1 tsp
Garlic Powder1 tsp

Variations of Chicken and Gravy

Trying different variations can make our cooking more exciting, especially with a chicken and gravy crock pot recipe. This method is easy and lets flavors blend over time. We can also change the chicken cut to meet our taste and dietary needs.

Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

The chicken and gravy crock pot recipe is simple yet flavorful. It uses just a few ingredients like chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, and gravy mix. This makes a comforting meal for six people, and we can adjust the recipe for any crock pot size.

  • Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on LOW
  • Ingredients: 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 can (10.5 oz) of unsalted cream of chicken soup, 2 packets (0.87 oz each) of chicken gravy mix.
  • Serves: 6 people

This recipe has been loved by our family for over 30 years. It’s versatile, serving well with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

Different Cuts of Chicken to Use

Using different chicken cuts can really make our cooking stand out. While chicken breasts are common, thighs and whole chickens add more flavor and texture. Thighs stay moist, making them great for this recipe. Whole chickens need extra broth for a richer taste.

Whether we pick breasts, thighs, or whole chickens, trying new cuts brings new tastes and textures. It makes our meals more exciting and satisfying.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken and Gravy

Adding thoughtful pairings can really enhance our chicken and gravy. Side dishes and wine choices are key. They help bring out the rich flavors of the savory chicken gravy, making the meal unforgettable.

Best Sides to Serve

Choosing the right sides for our chicken and gravy is important. We suggest options that balance the dish’s richness. Here are some great choices:

  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They soak up the gravy nicely.
  • Roasted Vegetables: They add color, nutrition, and a bit of crunch.
  • Buttered Noodles: A light, tasty choice that goes well with the chicken.
  • Steamed Green Beans: A fresh side that cuts through the gravy’s richness.

Wine Pairings for a Cozy Dinner

Choosing the right wine can elevate our chicken and gravy. Here are a few wine choices that complement the dish well:

  • Chardonnay: A full-bodied white wine that matches the dish’s creaminess.
  • Pinot Noir: This light red wine has berry notes that contrast well with the savory flavors.
  • Merlot: Its soft tannins and plum flavors complement the dish without overpowering it.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Properly storing leftovers keeps our chicken and gravy recipe fresh and flavorful. It’s key to refrigerate it quickly, within two hours, to avoid foodborne illnesses. Gravy stays good in the fridge for up to three days. Freezing it for up to four months is another way to enjoy it later.

To reheat safely, aim for a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The stove is best for this, as it keeps the texture right. Adding chicken stock to the gravy helps it stay creamy. You can also use a skillet or microwave, but be careful not to overheat.

Reheating can sometimes cause lumps in the gravy. So, mix it well to get a smooth texture. Remember, leftovers should only be reheated once for safety. Following these tips ensures your leftovers taste as good as the first time.

MethodTimeTips
Stove10–15 minutesAdd chicken stock to maintain creaminess
Skillet5–10 minutesStir frequently to prevent burning
Microwave1–2 minutes per portionStir halfway through reheating

Serving Suggestions for Chicken with Gravy

Presenting our delicious chicken and gravy recipe on the dining table makes the meal better. We can make it look great by using different garnishing techniques. This way, our dish will surely impress everyone.

By focusing on how we present it, we make sure the meal matches the tasty flavors of the best chicken and gravy recipe.

Dining Table Presentation

Start with the main dish. We can plate the chicken to show off its golden-brown crispy skin and rich gravy. Here are some ideas to make it even better:

  • Add fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to bring color and a burst of freshness to the dish.
  • Drizzle extra gravy artfully around the chicken for an elegant touch.
  • Serve the chicken on a platter with a bowl of gravy for guests to add as they please.

For side dishes, arrange them around the chicken to make it inviting. Here are some options:

  • Fluffy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the gravy.
  • Sautéed green beans or collard greens for a pop of color.
  • Southern fried okra or cornbread to keep the Southern charm.

With a thoughtful presentation, our chicken and gravy dish will not only taste great but also be the highlight of the meal.

Health Considerations for Chicken and Gravy

Knowing the health aspects of chicken and gravy helps us make better food choices. We aim to give a detailed look at the nutritional value of our recipe. This way, everyone can make informed decisions about their diet.

Nutritional Information

Our chicken and gravy recipe makes about six servings, perfect for families. Here’s a detailed look at the main ingredients and their nutritional benefits:

IngredientAmountCaloriesProtein (g)Fat (g)Carbohydrates (g)
Chicken Breasts2.5 lbs (approx. 3-4 breasts)1100120400
Cream of Chicken Soup2 cans (21 oz total)42082856
Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth14.5 oz can40417
Brown Gravy Mix2 packs1102124
All-Purpose Flour1/4 cup11430.323
Total Per Serving178413770.3110

Understanding the health aspects of chicken and gravy means knowing about cooking methods too. Using methods like pressure cooking or microwaving can reduce harmful compounds. Steaming for 15-20 minutes keeps meat tender and nutrients intact. But, grilling or frying can increase risks of cancer and heart disease.

Why Our Recipe Stands Out from Others

Our easy chicken and gravy recipe is a standout among many. It’s simple, making it perfect for beginners. You’ll need just a few ingredients, which you likely have at home.

What makes our recipe special is using Chicken Base as a secondary fat. This adds a lot of flavor without making things complicated. We suggest using Better Than Bouillon for the best taste.

Our instructions are easy to follow, so you can make it your own. If the gravy is too thick, just add some chicken broth or milk. You can also add spices like onion powder and garlic powder to taste.

This recipe is great for busy people. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for months. Warming it up with a bit of liquid makes it just as good as new.

Serving our chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice makes a delicious meal. Ideal for family meals or special occasions. The flavors are rich, and it’s easy to make.

Conclusion

We’ve explored a simple yet satisfying chicken and gravy recipe. It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. With just 16 ingredients and a simple process, it’s easy for anyone to enjoy.

This homemade chicken gravy is great with many sides and suits various diets. You can serve it over toast, rice, or even farro. It’s a wonderful way to bring people together for a meal.

We’d love to know how you customize this recipe to make it your own. This dish serves eight and is great for big families. It’s not just a meal; it’s about creating lasting memories. Let’s keep sharing our love for homemade chicken gravy.

FAQ

What is the best cut of chicken for making chicken and gravy?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs are great. They’re tender and full of flavor. Plus, they sear well and soak up the gravy’s savory taste.

How can I make homemade chicken gravy smooth and lump-free?

For smooth gravy, whisk the roux well. Then, add broth slowly and carefully. Whisking helps mix everything evenly, making the gravy creamy.

Can I make this chicken and gravy recipe in a crock pot?

Yes! Our crock pot chicken and gravy recipe is perfect for busy days. Just season and sear the chicken first. Then, put it all in the crock pot to simmer and blend flavors.

What are some delicious sides to serve with chicken and gravy?

Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice. These sides match the dish’s rich flavors perfectly.

How do I store and reheat leftovers of chicken and gravy?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a bit of broth keeps it moist.

Is there a way to adapt this chicken and gravy recipe for dietary preferences?

Yes! Try using different chicken cuts, like thighs, or even skin-on pieces for more flavor. Adjust the seasonings to fit your dietary needs.

What nutritional information should I be aware of for chicken and gravy?

Knowing the nutritional facts, like calories and protein, is key. This dish can be part of a balanced diet, especially with the right sides.

What sets your chicken and gravy recipe apart from others?

Our recipe is simple and easy to follow. It uses common ingredients and clear steps. It’s perfect for cooks of all levels, yet still packs a lot of flavor.