Chicken and gravy is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Tender, juicy chicken paired with rich, savory gravy is a timeless combination that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a reliable recipe, this chicken and gravy dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making chickenshit and gravy—from the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to creative variations and expert tips that ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Introduction: Why Chicken and Gravy Recipe?
Whether you prepare it in a skillet, oven, or slow cooker, the versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs.
The beauty of chicken and gravy lies in its simplicity: just a few key ingredients, cooked with care, can produce a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the dish is straightforward to customize, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings, cooking methods, and accompaniments.
The Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy
To make the perfect chicken and gravy, you need fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the best in each component. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken (4-6 pieces, bone-in or boneless): Bone-in chicken provides more flavor and moisture, while boneless chicken is easier to serve. You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks.
- Flour (½ cup): Flour is used to dredge the chicken and acts as a thickening agent for the gravy.
- Butter (4 tablespoons) adds richness to the dish and creates a smooth, velvety texture in the gravy.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): When used to brown the chicken, olive oil ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups): The gravy’s base, chicken broth, adds depth and savory flavor to the dish.
- Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup): Milk or cream gives the gravy its creamy consistency. Heavy cream results in a thicker gravy, while the use of milk offers a lighter option.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): The onions add sweetness and depth, serving as the aromatic base of the gravy.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic adds an aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon, fresh or dried) adds an earthy, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Proper seasoning is essential for balancing flavors.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) adds subtle smokiness and a warm, earthy note.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Parsley is optional, but when sprinkled on top, it adds a burst of color and freshness.
Optional ingredients and variations:
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms enhance the gravy’s depth and earthiness.
- A splash of white wine enhances acidity and complexity.
- Hot Sauce or Cayenne Pepper: For a spicy kick, incorporate hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds smokiness and texture.
Step-by-step instructions: how to make chicken and gravy
Follow these detailed steps to create a savory chicken and gravy dish that’s tender, flavorful, and satisfying.
1. Season and Dredge the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. In a shallow dish, place the flour and dredge each piece of chicken evenly on all sides. The flour helps achieve a golden crust and serves as a base for thickening the gravy later.
2. Brown the chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The goal here is to build flavor by achieving a crispy sear, not to cook the chicken all the way through. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Saute the onions and garlic.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can introduce a bitter flavor.
4. Make the gravy:
Sprinkle the remaining flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring the mixture remains smooth and lump-free. As the gravy thickens, stir in the milk or heavy cream. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Add the chicken back to the pan.
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve the chicken and gravy hot with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Chicken and gravy is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal:
Side Dishes:
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that perfectly soak up the rich gravy.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are ideal for sopping up every bit of gravy.
- Rice: Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of white or wild rice for a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Roasted vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and green beans adds color and nutrients.
- Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread offers a pleasing contrast to the savory gravy.
Toppings and garnishes:
- Fresh herbs: sprinkle extra thyme or parsley for added freshness.
- Crispy Fried Onions: These add crunch and extra flavor.
- Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce brings a subtle heat that complements the creamy gravy.
Creative Variations of Chicken and Gravy
While the classic recipe is always a hit, there are endless ways to customize chicken and gravy to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
1. Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe, Southern Style
For a more indulgent version, bread and deep-fry the chicken pieces before smothering them in gravy. The crispy fried chicken adds texture and pairs wonderfully with rich, creamy gravy.
2. Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Gravy
Sautéed mushrooms add depth and a meaty, earthy flavor to the gravy. Incorporate the mushrooms into the gravy along with the onions and garlic for a luxurious twist on the classic recipe.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Brighten up the dish by adding lemon juice and zest to the gravy. Fresh rosemary and thyme add a fragrant, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
4. Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
For an easy, hands-off version, make this dish in a slow cooker. Sear the chicken first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the gravy ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and the gravy is rich and flavorful.
5. Dairy-Free Chicken and Gravy
For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of cream. The result is still creamy and delicious without any dairy.
Nutritional Insights: Is Chicken and Gravy Healthy?
Chicken and gravy is a comforting, hearty dish, but how does it fare nutritionally? Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients and health benefits:
Protein from Chicken
Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Choosing skinless chicken or using leaner cuts can help reduce the fat content while still providing essential nutrients.
Carbohydrates from Gravy
If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can reduce the amount of flour or use a low-carb thickening agent like arrowroot powder or xanthan gum.
Fats from Dairy
The creamy texture of the gravy comes from the butter and milk or cream, which contribute both saturated and unsaturated fats. While these fats add richness, they also increase the calorie content. Opting for lower-fat milk or reducing the amount of butter can make the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetables contain vitamins and minerals.
Adding onions, garlic, and fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, thyme is rich in vitamin C and has natural antibacterial properties.
To make the dish healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter, incorporate more vegetables, or use leaner cuts of chicken.
Expert tips for perfecting chicken and gravy
Even with a simple recipe, there are a few tricks that can take your chicken and gravy from excellent to great:
1. Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
Bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs and drumsticks, provide more flavor and stay moist during cooking. The bones add richness to the gravy as they release flavor during the simmering process.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing Step
Searing the chicken before simmering it in the gravy helps lock in moisture and creates a flavorful crust. It also enhances the gravy by building a rich fond (the browned bits) at the bottom of the pan.
3. Control the gravity consistency.
If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, simply add more broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency. Be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Let the chicken rest before serving.
Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and flavorful.
5. Customise the seasoning.
Taste the gravy as it cooks and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. A pinch of cayenne pepper, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors and add depth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Chicken and Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As it sits, the flavors deepen, making the dish even more delicious. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or milk if the gravy thickens too much.
2. Can I freeze chicken and gravy?
Yes, you can freeze chicken and gravy. Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop. Stir well and add a little extra liquid if needed to maintain the gravy’s smooth texture.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat chicken and gravy is on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add more broth or milk as needed. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.
4. Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork chops, turkey, or even beef for the chicken. The method remains the same, though cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat.
5. What’s the Difference Between Brown Gravy and White Gravy?
Brown gravy is made using pan drippings and broth, often beef or chicken broth, while white gravy (also known as country gravy) is typically made with milk and is commonly served with biscuits or fried chicken.
Conclusion: A classic dish for all seasons
Chicken and gravy is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, versatile dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that are sure to please.
Gather your ingredients, enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite of this comforting, flavorful meal by following the tips and variations in this guide.