Growing up, my grandma’s homemade chicken and gravy was the ultimate comfort food. The aroma of simmering chicken and the rich, velvety gravy would fill the house. It instantly took me back to those cozy family dinners. Now, I’m excited to share a simple, one-pan version that captures that same nostalgic flavor, all in under 30 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection
- Rich, creamy gravy made from scratch, no cans or packets required
- Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick and easy weeknight meal
- Serves 4 people, perfect for the whole family
- Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables
Introduction to Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Enjoy the warm taste of a classic home-style cooking dish with our Chicken and Gravy recipe. It’s a family favorite, with tender chicken and a rich, creamy gravy.
Why Chicken and Gravy Is a Family Favorite
This dish is loved for its simplicity and few ingredients. It offers poultry dishes and gravy recipes full of soul-warming flavors. It’s perfect for a cozy home-style cooking experience, whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or satisfying soul food cravings.
Essential Kitchen Tools Needed
To make this home-style cooking masterpiece, you’ll need a few tools. A large skillet with a tight-fitting lid is key for cooking the chicken and gravy. You’ll also need a sturdy cutting board and measuring spoons for preparing the ingredients.
Time and Serving Size Overview
This poultry dishes and gravy recipes dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It serves 4 people, making it great for family meals or gatherings with friends and loved ones.
“This Chicken and Gravy recipe is a true comfort food classic that reminds me of my grandma’s cooking. It’s a dish that brings the whole family together.
Ingredients for Perfect Chicken and Gravy
To make the ultimate homemade chicken dish with savory gravy, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This will give you 4 servings. For the creamy gravy base, you’ll need 2 packets of chicken gravy mix, a 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, and 2 cups of water.
To add extra richness and creaminess, consider stirring in 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This will make the gravy smooth and flavorful. Don’t forget to season the dish with a blend of spices like salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1 lb |
| Chicken Gravy Mix | 2 packets |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 oz can |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt, Pepper, Oregano, Thyme, Paprika, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder | To Taste |
With these simple, yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious homemade chicken entree with savory sauces that the whole family will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This makes them thinner and cooks more evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder all over.
This seasoning mix will add delicious flavors as the chicken cooks.
Making the Gravy Base
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to get rid of any raw flour taste.
Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of unsalted or low-sodium chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Let it simmer and thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
Combining and Cooking Process
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the simmering gravy base. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the gravy. Shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pan and mix it into the meat sauces and creamy sauces. This creates a tasty, flavorful gravy. Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides.
Tips for Making the Creamiest Gravy
Making a rich, creamy gravy is key to great country cooking. It’s perfect for classic chicken and gravy or new recipes. Follow these tips for the creamiest, most velvety gravy every time.
- Whisk the flour and butter continuously as you cook. This technique, known as a roux, helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, silky texture.
- Add the broth slowly, whisking constantly to incorporate it fully. Gradually incorporating the liquid prevents the gravy from becoming too thin or watery.
- For an extra creamy finish, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream at the end. The tangy dairy products add a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more broth if it’s too dense, or allowing it to simmer longer if it’s too thin. The perfect consistency should coat the back of a spoon.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the creamiest, most flavorful gravy to complement your country cooking classics. Pair it with tender, juicy chicken or savory beef for a truly satisfying meal.
“The secret to a perfect gravy is all in the technique. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can turn a simple sauce into a rich, velvety masterpiece.”
Slow Cooker Variation for Busy Days
When time is tight, the crockpot is your go-to. This easy crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is great for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Just add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook for you.
Crockpot Method Benefits
The slow cooking in the crockpot makes the chicken tender and the gravy creamy. This method is perfect for busy days when you can’t watch a stovetop dish. The crockpot keeps everything warm and ready to eat when you are.
Adjusting Ingredients for Slow Cooking
- Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 can (10.25 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 3/4 cups of water or chicken broth, and 2 packets (0.87 ounces each) of chicken gravy mix.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, making sure the pieces are fully submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thirty minutes before serving, shred the chicken using two forks. Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream to make the gravy extra creamy.
Serve the crockpot chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a comforting meal. This slow cooker version is ideal for those busy crockpot chicken & gravy or Sunday dinners when you want a homemade meal with little effort.
Best Side Dish Pairings
Choosing the right side dishes can make your homestyle chicken and gravy meal complete. These side dishes add to the rich, comforting flavors of the chicken and gravy. They make your family recipes even more special.
Try serving the chicken and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice for a classic taste. For a healthier choice, pair it with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus. Don’t forget dinner rolls or cornbread to soak up the savory gravy.
| Side Dish | Preparation Time | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts | 40 minutes | Irresistible crispy, cheesy bites |
| Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad | Under 1 hour | Fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed |
| Orzo Al Limone | 20 minutes | Cooked slowly in chicken broth for a creamy sauce |
| Air Fryer Green Beans | 25 minutes | Crispy beans with 8 garlic cloves |
| Roasted Fennel With Delicata Squash & Apples | 1 hour | Elegant dinner party, simple weeknight, or holiday spread |
These side dishes will make your homestyle chicken and gravy meal unforgettable. From creamy potatoes to roasted veggies, there’s something for everyone. Your family will love these delicious pairings.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying a delicious homemade chicken dish is just the start. Properly storing and reheating leftovers is crucial. This ensures your chicken and gravy stay flavorful and safe to eat. Follow these simple guidelines to enjoy your chicken and gravy again.
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your chicken and gravy fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. This prevents the gravy from drying out and the chicken from becoming tough. For longer storage, freeze the dish for 2-3 months.
Reheating Without Drying
Reheating your chicken recipes is easy. For individual servings, the microwave is great. Heat in 45-second intervals, stirring often to avoid hot spots. Or, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding broth if the gravy is too thick.
Choose your reheating method wisely. Heat the dish to 165°F to ensure safety and flavor. With these tips, you can enjoy your homemade meals for days after they’re made.
| Food Item | Refrigerator (40°F or below) | Freezer (0°F or below) |
|---|---|---|
| Gravy | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
| Cooked Chicken Dishes | 3-4 days | 4-6 months |
| Cooked Chicken (whole, pieces, or nuggets) | 3-4 days | 1-3 months |
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
For a richer taste, use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The dark meat adds a deeper, savory flavor to your meat and gravy. You can also add fresh or canned mushrooms for an earthy taste, or peas for color and nutrition.
Want to use Thanksgiving leftovers? Try substituting turkey for chicken. It makes a tasty comfort food dish perfect for after the holiday. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy. Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
This recipe is very versatile. You can try different soups, seasonings, and even add sour cream or onion soup mix. It’s a great way to make this classic meat and gravy your own. You can customize it to your liking.
PrintEasy Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal in just 25 minutes. Made with simple, everyday ingredients, this one-pot dish features tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy gravy that elevates any dinner table.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- Salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise for even cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add 1.5 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken to the gravy and cover. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken, shred or slice, and mix back into the gravy. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or with your favorite sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this easy chicken and gravy recipe?
You’ll need 1 lb chicken breasts, 3 tbsp butter, and 3 tbsp flour. Also, 2 cups chicken broth and seasonings like salt and pepper. Add oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. You can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
How long does this chicken and gravy recipe take to make?
It’s ready in about 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
How many people does this chicken and gravy recipe serve?
It serves 4 people. It’s great for family meals. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Add sides like steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus.
What kitchen tools are needed to make this chicken and gravy?
You’ll need a large skillet with a lid, a cutting board, and measuring spoons. The recipe is simple and requires minimal equipment.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They make the chicken and gravy richer and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I avoid lumps in the gravy?
To avoid lumps, whisk the flour and butter continuously when making the roux. Add the chicken broth slowly while whisking. This ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Can I make this chicken and gravy in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can make it in the slow cooker. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper. Mix cream of chicken soup with gravy packets and pour over the chicken. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
How long will the leftover chicken and gravy last in the refrigerator?
Leftover chicken and gravy can last 4-5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much.