When you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, this chicken and gravy recipe is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and fills the house with a delicious, savory aroma that’s sure to gather the family around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting dish that everyone loves.
- Simple Ingredients: Only a few pantry staples are needed to make this meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy the meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to fit different diets or ingredient preferences.
How to Make Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This chicken and gravy recipe starts with well-seasoned chicken, lightly seared for a beautiful golden color, then simmered in a delicious homemade gravy. You’ll have dinner on the table in less than an hour!
Helpful Tips
- Use bone-in chicken: It adds more flavor to the gravy, but you can use boneless if preferred.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative for a gluten-free version of the gravy.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.
Substitutions and Variations
- For a richer gravy: Swap out some of the broth for cream.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aroma.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version of this gravy dish.
What to Serve with Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This chicken and gravy recipe pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice. For a complete meal with an extra dose of comfort, try serving it alongside Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach: A Family-Friendly Delight. The creamy spinach adds a delightful contrast to the rich gravy, making your meal even more satisfying.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.
- Reheat: Warm up gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Chicken and Gravy Recipe Ingredients
First Step:
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika.
Second Step:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Third Step:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Fourth Step:
- Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Fifth Step:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
Sixth Step:
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot with mashed potatoes or rice.
Mastering Chicken and Gravy Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- For extra crispy skin: Use skin-on chicken and finish cooking it in the oven under the broiler for a few minutes.
- Add a splash of white wine: Incorporate a splash of white wine into the gravy for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Vegetables: Add carrots or peas to the skillet while simmering for a complete meal in one pan.
How to Store Chicken and Gravy Recipe: Best Practices
- Fridge: Store the chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm up the chicken and gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
Nutritional Value of Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
This chicken and gravy recipe provides a balanced meal with a good source of protein, moderate carbs, and healthy fats, making it a comforting yet nutritious choice.
Wondering how long to boil chicken thighs for the best results? Check out our guide for essential cooking times and tips for perfect, juicy chicken.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breasts work well in this recipe, but keep in mind that they may cook faster, because chicken breasts often require slightly different cooking times. Adjust the simmering time to ensure they don’t dry out.
Q: How do I make the gravy gluten-free?
A: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, or you can use cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Absolutely! The gravy can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently and add the chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve this dish with besides mashed potatoes?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even buttered noodles for a comforting meal.
Q: How do I prevent the gravy from becoming too thick?
A: If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.