Irresistible Chicken Gravy Recipe for Perfect Meals

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

The moment you pour that luscious chicken gravy over your mashed potatoes, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this delightful dish, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

Just thinking about chicken gravy brings back memories of family dinners where laughter echoed and plates were piled high. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday lunch or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe promises to elevate any dining experience with its rich flavors and comforting textures.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This chicken gravy is simple to prepare and full of flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • Its smooth, velvety texture enhances any dish, from rice to roasted vegetables
  • The golden-brown color is sure to impress guests at your next dinner party
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various cuisines—from classic comfort food to gourmet creations

Ingredients for Chicken Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; they’re the star of the show and can be adjusted based on serving size.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for that aromatic punch that elevates the gravy’s flavor profile.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop for an even distribution in the gravy.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while providing rich flavor—homemade or store-bought both work great.
  • Butter: About two tablespoons of butter enriches the sauce and gives it a silky finish; unsalted is ideal.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent; be sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps.

For the Seasoning:

  • Salt and Pepper: Adjust according to taste; fresh ground pepper adds a nice kick.
  • Dried Thyme: A teaspoon of dried thyme enhances the savory notes beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Chicken Gravy

How to Make Chicken Gravy

Start with Preparing Your Chicken

Begin by seasoning the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat until it’s hot enough that you can hear a sizzle when you add the chicken. Cook them for about six minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Create Flavorful Aromatics

Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and let it rest on a plate covered with foil. In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until they turn translucent while releasing their sweet aroma—about three minutes should do.

Make Your Roux

Add butter to the skillet, letting it melt completely before whisking in flour until smooth. This roux will thicken your gravy beautifully. Stir constantly for about two minutes until it turns golden brown; this enhances flavor depth.

Add Broth and Season

Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. As it thickens, add thyme along with more salt and pepper if needed—taste as you go! Let it simmer gently for about five minutes until it’s glossy and perfect.

Finish It Off

Slice your rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, then fold them into your luscious gravy. Allow everything to mingle on low heat for another two minutes—this ensures each piece gets coated in that sumptuous sauce.

Serve It Up

Ladle generous amounts of chicken gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice. Watch as everyone at your table dives in with gusto; it’s truly comfort food at its best! Enjoy every last drop because trust me, you won’t want any leftovers!

You Must Know

  • This amazing chicken gravy offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best chicken gravy, start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it’s sizzling, prepare your sauce and side dishes simultaneously for maximum efficiency and delightful results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or spices based on what you love! Try adding mushrooms for an earthy twist or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Your creativity is the only limit here!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always season your chicken well before cooking to enhance flavors
  • Use fresh herbs whenever possible for vibrant taste
  • Don’t rush the gravy; let it simmer to develop deep flavors that will wow everyone

Sharing this recipe reminds me of that one time at a family gathering when I made chicken gravy, and everyone raved about it. My aunt even asked for a second helping, and we all know how picky she can be!

FAQs:

What is Chicken Gravy made of?

Chicken gravy is a savory sauce made primarily from the drippings of cooked chicken, combined with broth, flour, and seasonings. The base starts with rendering the fat from the chicken, which provides flavor. Then, flour is added to create a roux. After that, chicken broth is gradually whisked in to achieve a smooth consistency. Additional ingredients like herbs, garlic, or onion can enhance the flavor profile. Homemade chicken gravy tends to be richer and more flavorful than store-bought versions.

How do I thicken Chicken Gravy?

To thicken chicken gravy, you can use several methods. The most common technique involves creating a roux by cooking equal parts flour and fat until it forms a paste. Gradually add this mixture to your gravy while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Alternatively, cornstarch mixed with cold water can also work as a thickening agent—add it slowly until you reach the desired consistency. Ensure that you allow the gravy to simmer after adding any thickening agent for optimal texture.

Can Chicken Gravy be frozen?

Yes, chicken gravy can be frozen for later use. To freeze it effectively, make sure to cool the gravy completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to use the frozen gravy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Stir well to restore its smooth consistency if separation occurs during freezing.

What dishes pair well with Chicken Gravy?

Chicken gravy pairs wonderfully with various dishes that benefit from its rich flavor. Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, enhancing their creamy texture with savory goodness. It also complements roasted vegetables or biscuits perfectly. For those who enjoy comfort food, serving chicken gravy over rice or noodles makes for a hearty meal. Additionally, incorporating it into casseroles adds depth and moisture to baked dishes.

Conclusion for Chicken Gravy:

In summary, chicken gravy is a flavorful sauce made primarily from chicken drippings and broth, perfect for enhancing various dishes. Thickening techniques like using a roux or cornstarch provide versatility in achieving your desired consistency. Freezing chicken gravy allows for convenient meal preparation without sacrificing taste when reheating later on. By pairing it with favorites like mashed potatoes or biscuits, you can elevate your dining experience significantly with this rich and comforting addition.

Print

Savory Chicken Gravy

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of homemade chicken gravy that transforms any meal into a special occasion. This easy-to-make gravy features tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and savory herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment for mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Elevate your dining experience with this versatile sauce that promises to bring warmth and joy to your table.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and cover to rest.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 3 minutes).
  3. Melt the butter in the skillet and whisk in flour until smooth; cook for 2 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add thyme, adjusting seasoning as needed. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Slice the rested chicken and fold it into the gravy for an additional two minutes on low heat.
  6. Serve generously over mashed potatoes or rice.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 175g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 470mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add mushrooms for extra flavor. For a tangy twist, a splash of lemon juice can brighten up the gravy.

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