Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe – A Delicious One-Pan Comfort Meal

Introduction to Chicken and Gravy Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect chicken and gravy recipe, you’re in the right place. This classic comfort food is a favorite in many homes, and for good reason. It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will hit the spot.

The best part? This dish is incredibly versatile. You can pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even biscuits. Plus, there are numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a delicious chicken and gravy recipe step by step.

Ingredients Overview

When making this chicken and gravy recipe, the ingredients are key. Thankfully, most of them are basic pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: You can use chicken breasts or thighs. Both work well, but chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier.
• Butter and Flour: These are essential for making the roux, which thickens the gravy.
• Chicken Broth: You can use either broth or stock for this recipe. Stock tends to have a richer flavor, while broth is lighter.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and optional onion powder. These seasonings bring depth to the gravy.

Adjusting the seasoning to your taste is easy with this recipe. Some people prefer a bit more garlic, while others may want to add Italian seasoning. Feel free to make the dish your own.

How to Prepare Chicken for the Recipe

To make this chicken and gravy recipe a success, start with proper preparation. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the gravy.

Slicing the Chicken

For this recipe, it’s best to slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This helps the chicken cook faster and more evenly. Thinner slices also soak up the gravy more effectively, resulting in a juicier dish. If you’re using chicken thighs, you can leave them whole since they tend to cook through more evenly.

Seasoning the Chicken

Seasoning the chicken well is key to enhancing its flavor in this chicken and gravy recipe. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a balance of flavors. Some people also like to add thyme or onion powder for an extra layer of taste. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after seasoning to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Making the Perfect Gravy

The gravy is the heart of this chicken and gravy recipe. A smooth, flavorful gravy elevates the dish to a whole new level. Follow these steps to create the perfect gravy for your recipe.

Step 1: Create a Roux

In this chicken and gravy recipe, the first step to making the gravy is creating a roux. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add an equal amount of flour (3 tablespoons). Stir continuously to prevent the flour from burning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the roux turns slightly golden.

Step 2: Add Chicken Broth

Next, gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth to the roux while whisking continuously. The whisking is crucial in this chicken and gravy recipe to prevent lumps from forming. Once all the broth is incorporated, continue stirring until the gravy thickens, which will take about 5 minutes. At this point, you can season the gravy with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.

Step 3: Adjusting the Gravy

Gravy consistency is essential in any recipe. If your gravy is too thick, add more chicken broth one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes or add a cornstarch slurry. The goal is to have a thick, creamy gravy that coats the chicken perfectly.

Cooking Chicken in the Gravy

After preparing the gravy, it’s time to cook the chicken in it. This step is crucial in ensuring that the chicken stays moist and tender while soaking up the rich gravy in this chicken and gravy recipe.

Step 1: Cooking the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts or thighs into the skillet with the gravy. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the gravy. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors while staying juicy. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chicken simmer in the gravy for about 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. In this chicken and gravy recipe, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.

Step 2: Shredding the Chicken

For this chicken and gravy recipe, you have the option to shred the chicken or leave it whole. Shredded chicken absorbs more gravy and creates a rich, flavorful dish. To shred the chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart in the skillet. If you prefer to keep the chicken whole, simply ensure it’s fully coated with the gravy before serving.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it pairs with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer classic mashed potatoes or something lighter like rice, this dish complements a wide range of flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are the perfect base for this recipe. The creamy potatoes soak up the gravy, making every bite delicious. You can prepare mashed potatoes from scratch or use instant potatoes for convenience.
• Rice: For a lighter option, serve the chicken and gravy over rice. Rice easily absorbs the gravy, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Biscuits or Rolls: Freshly baked biscuits or dinner rolls are ideal for this chicken and gravy recipe. They can be used to mop up any extra gravy on your plate.

Vegetable Side Dishes

• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a crunchy contrast to the smooth gravy in this chicken and gravy recipe.
• Corn: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the chicken and gravy.
• Peas and Carrots: A simple vegetable medley adds color and nutrients to your meal, complementing the rich flavors of this chicken and gravy recipe.

Recipe Variations

This chicken and gravy recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try.

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

For a hands-off approach, you can easily adapt this chicken and gravy recipe for the crockpot. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the gravy as directed, then transfer it to the crockpot.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts or thighs.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender.

The crockpot version of this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort.

Gluten-Free Chicken and Gravy Recipe

To make this chicken and gravy recipe gluten-free, you can easily substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Additionally, using cornstarch helps create a smooth, thick gravy without any gluten. Consequently, you’ll achieve the same delicious result while accommodating gluten-free dietary needs.

Dairy-Free Chicken and Gravy Recipe

For a dairy-free version of this chicken and gravy recipe, start by replacing the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. Additionally, you can use coconut milk or another plant-based milk to add richness and depth to the gravy. By making these substitutions, you maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dairy-free dietary needs.

Leftover Chicken or Turkey

If you have leftover chicken or turkey, you can easily repurpose it with this chicken and gravy recipe. First, skip the step of cooking raw chicken in the gravy. Instead, shred your leftover meat and stir it into the gravy. Next, let it heat through thoroughly before serving. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavor with the leftover meat.

Adding Vegetables

For a convenient one-pan meal, you can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms directly into the skillet with the chicken and gravy. Doing so not only enhances the dish with extra flavor but also boosts its nutritional value. Consequently, this method eliminates the need for separate side dishes, making your meal both satisfying and efficient.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Gravy Every Time

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chicken and gravy recipe turns out perfectly each time.

1. Use a Meat Thermometer

To make sure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, always use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. For this chicken and gravy recipe, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. By doing this, you’ll ensure that the chicken is both juicy and properly cooked.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Chicken can easily become dry if it’s overcooked, so it’s important to keep an eye on it while cooking. In this recipe, be sure to remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches the correct internal temperature of 165°F. This step will help keep the chicken juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

3. Whisk the Gravy Continuously

To avoid lumps in your gravy, it’s important to whisk the broth into the roux slowly and continuously. In this chicken and gravy recipe, taking the time to whisk properly will help ensure a smooth, velvety consistency. Smooth gravy is key to achieving the perfect texture, making the dish even more satisfying and enjoyable.

4. Adjust Seasonings

Always remember to taste your gravy before serving to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned. In this recipe, adjusting the seasoning to your liking is essential. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder if necessary. By doing so, you’ll create a well-balanced gravy that complements the dish and pleases everyone’s taste buds.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this chicken and gravy recipe?

Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent choice for this chicken and gravy recipe. Not only are they juicier than chicken breasts, but they also have more flavor due to their higher fat content. As a result, using chicken thighs will make the dish even more tender and flavorful.

What’s the difference between chicken stock and broth in a chicken and gravy recipe?

Chicken stock is made by simmering bones, which gives it a deeper, richer flavor, while broth is made from simmering meat and tends to have a lighter taste. Both options work well in this chicken and gravy recipe, but stock will add a more robust, hearty flavor to the dish.

Can I make this chicken and gravy recipe in a crockpot?

Yes, you can easily adapt this chicken and gravy recipe for the crockpot, making it even more convenient. Simply follow the crockpot variation provided above, and you’ll have a delicious, slow-cooked meal that’s just as flavorful and satisfying with minimal effort.

Why is my gravy too thin or too thick in this chicken and gravy recipe?

If your gravy turns out too thin, simply let it simmer a bit longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken it. On the other hand, if the gravy is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth while stirring until you achieve the perfect consistency for your dish.

Can I use cornstarch instead of flour in this chicken and gravy recipe?

Yes, cornstarch works wonderfully as a substitute for flour when making a gluten-free version of this chicken and gravy recipe. By using cornstarch, you’ll still achieve a smooth, thick gravy without compromising on texture or flavor, making it an excellent alternative for gluten-free cooking.

Conclusion

This chicken and gravy recipe is a timeless classic, cherished for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. With its easy-to-follow process and basic ingredients, it’s an ideal dish for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or buttery biscuits, offering a comforting meal that everyone will love. For those looking to get creative, you can experiment with variations by adding vegetables like carrots or peas to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Ultimately, this versatile recipe allows you to make it your own while still delivering a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. Happy cooking!