Chicken And Gravy Recipe

Hearty Chicken And Gravy Recipe For Sunday Dinners

Succulent chicken and gravy promises pure comfort on a plate.

Home cooks have long treasured this classic dish for its soul-warming qualities.

Rich, creamy goodness speaks directly to those craving hearty meal satisfaction.

Memories of family dinners flood back with each spoonful of this traditional favorite.

Satisfying and straightforward, chicken and gravy represents pure culinary simplicity at its finest.

Generations have enjoyed this timeless combination that bridges generations through delicious connection.

Why Chicken and Gravy Belongs on Your Menu

  • Quick and Simple: This chicken and gravy recipe transforms basic ingredients into a comforting meal faster than ordering takeout, giving your dinner table a homestyle touch without complicated techniques.
  • Flavor-Packed Performance: By seasoning chicken thoroughly and creating a rich gravy from scratch, your taste buds get an incredible depth of flavor that store-bought sauces can’t match.
  • Versatile Dinner Champion: Whether your family prefers rice, potatoes, or noodles, this dish adapts perfectly, making mealtime smooth and satisfying for everyone around the table.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Using the same skillet for chicken and gravy means less cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner and less time scrubbing dishes afterward.

Essential Ingredients For Chicken And Gravy

Essential Ingredients For Chicken And Gravy
Chicken Proteins:
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): Perfect lean protein that absorbs seasonings beautifully and cooks quickly.
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (4): Tender alternative offering richer flavor and juicier meat.
Chicken Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, aromatic depth to your chicken’s flavor profile.
  • Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle sweetness and complementary savory notes.
  • Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle color and mild pepper warmth.
  • Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces earthy, herbal undertones.
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances overall seasoning and brings out natural chicken flavors.
  • Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Delivers gentle heat and sharpness.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons), Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Create perfect golden sear and add rich flavor to your chicken.

Prep Tools for Chicken And Gravy

  • Large Skillet (12-inch): Your primary cooking surface for searing chicken and creating gravy, perfect for handling the entire cooking process.
  • Whisk (10-inch): Essential for blending roux smoothly and preventing flour lumps in your gravy.
  • Measuring Cups: Helps accurately portion chicken broth, milk, and other liquid ingredients for consistent results.
  • Measuring Spoons: Ensures precise seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices.
  • Meat Thermometer: Confirms your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
  • Plate: Provides a temporary resting spot for your cooked chicken while preparing gravy.
  • Aluminum Foil: Keeps chicken warm and moist after initial cooking.
  • Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring and scraping browned bits from skillet during gravy preparation.
  • Kitchen Tongs: Helps safely handle and flip chicken during searing process.
  • Paper Towels: Perfect for patting chicken dry before seasoning.

Complete Instructions for Chicken and Gravy

Complete Instructions for Chicken and Gravy
1

Prepare The Chicken

Clean your chicken breasts and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Mix the seasonings together in a small bowl:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each chicken piece.

2

Sear The Chicken

Grab a large skillet and warm 2 tablespoons olive oil with 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the surface turns a beautiful golden brown. Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

3

Create The Gravy Base

Using the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a rich golden color.

4

Build The Gravy Liquid

Pour chicken broth slowly while whisking to prevent any lumps. Add these ingredients:

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

Stir everything together until smooth.

5

Simmer The Gravy

Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it reaches your preferred thickness.

6

Combine Chicken And Gravy

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon gravy over the top and let everything warm together for 3-5 minutes.

7

Serve And Enjoy

Plate your chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you like.

Chef’s Notes For Chicken And Gravy

Chef’s Notes For Chicken And Gravy
  • Pat your chicken dry with paper towels to help seasonings stick perfectly and create a delicious crust.
  • Get that beautiful golden-brown color by cooking your chicken in a hot skillet with a butter and oil blend for maximum flavor.
  • Whisk your flour and butter carefully to create a smooth base that prevents those pesky gravy lumps from crashing your dinner party.
  • Pour broth slowly while whisking to create a silky-smooth sauce that coats your chicken like a delicious blanket.
  • Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for an extra depth that makes your gravy taste like it came from a fancy restaurant kitchen.

Which Creative Spins Elevate Chicken and Gravy

  • Herb-Crusted Variation: Replace basic seasonings with a blend of rosemary, sage, and fresh chopped parsley for a more aromatic herbal profile that transforms your chicken’s flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, ensuring your gravy remains creamy while accommodating lactose-sensitive diets.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour when making the roux, which helps create a smooth gravy without wheat-based ingredients and keeps the dish celiac-friendly.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add ground cumin, chili powder, and a dash of cayenne to your seasoning mix, giving the chicken and gravy a zesty southwestern kick that warms your palate.

How To Plate Chicken And Gravy Comfort Style

  • Perfect Side Dish Pairing: Spread creamy mashed potatoes on your plate and nestle the saucy chicken right on top for a comfort food dream.
  • Easy Vegetable Match: Roast some simple green beans or steamed broccoli alongside the chicken to balance the rich gravy with a fresh crunch.
  • Wine Selection: Pour a crisp chardonnay or light pinot noir that complements the chicken’s savory flavors without overpowering the delicate gravy.
  • Bread Recommendation: Serve with warm buttermilk biscuits or crusty French bread to soak up every delicious drop of that amazing homemade gravy.

Proper Storage For Chicken And Gravy

  • Refrigerate leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container seals tightly to keep the flavors locked in.
  • When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent the meat from drying out in the microwave or skillet.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for quick meals later, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top for expansion.
  • Separate the chicken from the gravy before storing to maintain the best texture when you reheat your meal later.

Chicken And Gravy Common Inquiries

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they reach 165°F internally and don’t overcook, which can make them tough.

FAQ

What if I don’t have all the spices?

No worries. Use what you have. Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are the most important for creating deep flavor in your dish.

FAQ

How do I prevent lumpy gravy?

Whisk constantly when adding broth and use a fork or whisk to break up any flour clumps before adding liquid. Steady, slow pouring helps create smooth gravy.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Cook the chicken and gravy, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.

FAQ

Is there a way to make this gravy lighter?

Use low-fat milk instead of cream, and consider using less butter. The flavor will remain delicious while reducing calories.

FAQ

What’s the best way to know the chicken is cooked?

Always use a meat thermometer. Chicken must reach 165°F internally to be safely consumed. Color isn’t always a reliable indicator.

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Chicken And Gravy Recipe

Chicken And Gravy Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 23-29 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Chicken and gravy comfort families with pure home-style deliciousness that makes dinner feel like a warm hug. Tender chicken smothered in rich, silky gravy delivers classic comfort straight from your kitchen to the dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Fats:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Flour and Thickeners:

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

Liquids:

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

  1. Pat your 4 chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, ensuring no excess moisture remains.
  2. Combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Thoroughly coat both sides of the chicken with the prepared seasoning mixture, pressing gently to help spices adhere.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until butter melts and starts to sizzle.
  5. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, cooking for exactly 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and loosely cover with foil to maintain warmth.
  7. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat for approximately 1 minute.
  8. Sprinkle ¼ cup all-purpose flour into melted butter, whisking continuously for 2 minutes until mixture turns light golden.
  9. Gradually pour 2 cups chicken broth into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
  10. Add ½ cup whole milk, continuing to whisk until gravy becomes smooth and consistent.
  11. Incorporate 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and salt to taste.
  12. Reduce heat to low and simmer gravy for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until desired thickness is achieved.
  13. Return chicken to skillet, spooning gravy generously over the top and allowing it to warm for 3-4 minutes.
  14. Plate your chicken and gravy immediately over mashed potatoes or rice, ensuring each piece is generously coated with sauce.

Notes

  • Pat the chicken thoroughly dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that seals in maximum flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness, as overcooking can make the meat tough and dry.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux.
  • Add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy for deeper, more complex flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18-24 minutes
  • Category: Sautéed
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sophie Lane

Sophie Lane

Recipe Developer

Expertise

Family-friendly Meals, Simple Healthy Cooking, Ingredient Substitutions, Beginner-friendly Recipes, Flexible Meal Prep

Education

Rouxbe Online Culinary School
  • Program: Professional Cook Certificate
  • Focus: Online culinary training covering knife skills, cooking techniques, and plant-based and modern cooking approaches.
Schoolcraft College
  • Certificate: Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on culinary education supported by experienced chefs, focusing on practical cooking and food preparation skills.

Sophie brings a calm and flexible approach to Families With Purpose. Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, she creates recipes that feel simple, clear, and easy to make at home. She focuses on family-friendly meals, healthy everyday cooking, ingredient swaps, and beginner-friendly ideas. Sophie helps make each recipe approachable and easy to follow, especially for busy families who need meals that can bend with the day.

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