Chicken gravy is a classic comfort food that can elevate any meal, especially when served over mashed potatoes or rice. This easy chicken gravy recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a hit for family dinners. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making delicious chicken gravy, including a detailed recipe, step-by-step instructions, nutrition facts, community tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients

To make this easy chicken gravy, you will need the following ingredients:

Optional Additions:

• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Cooked vegetables (e.g., peas or carrots) for added nutrition

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your chicken gravy:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. This will create thinner pieces, allowing them to cook more quickly and evenly.
• Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You don’t need to measure exactly; just sprinkle enough to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

• Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for a minute.
• Melt the Butter: Add 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Let it melt completely without burning.
• Add Flour: Once the butter is melted, add 3 tablespoons of flour. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon until the flour and butter combine and start to thicken. This should take a few minutes.
• Cook the Flour: Continue to cook the flour mixture, stirring constantly to avoid burning, for about 2-3 minutes. This helps to develop a deeper flavor in your gravy.

Step 3: Combine with Broth

• Add Chicken Broth: Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Mix well until the gravy is smooth.
• Season the Broth: Add 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme, along with 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until combined and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Add the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet, ensuring they are covered by the gravy.
• Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the chicken to cook for about 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

• Shred the Chicken: Once fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the skillet (be careful if using a non-stick pan; you may want to transfer the chicken to a bowl first).
• Serve: Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of homemade mashed potatoes or rice. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed vegetables and warm dinner rolls.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Health Benefits of Chicken Gravy

• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Low Carb Option: When served without starchy sides, chicken gravy can fit well into low-carb diets.
• Nutrient Dense: Using homemade chicken broth adds flavor and nutrients without the preservatives found in store-bought soups.

Reviews

Community Feedback

Many home cooks have praised this chicken gravy recipe for its simplicity and delicious flavor. Here are a few reviews from those who have tried it:

• Sarah L.: “This recipe was a hit with my family! I love that it doesn’t use any canned soup and is so easy to make.”
• Tom R.: “I made this for dinner and served it over rice. My kids asked for seconds! Will definitely make again.”
• Emma G.: “I added some frozen peas to the gravy towards the end, and it turned out great! A fantastic comfort food recipe.”

Community Tips and Praise

• Cooking Tips:
  • Use Thinner Chicken: Cutting the chicken breasts in half helps reduce cooking time and ensures juicier results.
  • Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
• Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
  • Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Customization:
  • Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
  • Mix in vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen chicken will take longer to reach the safe temperature of 165°F. It’s best to thaw the chicken beforehand for even cooking.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water with added seasonings to enhance the flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Can I freeze chicken gravy?

Yes, you can freeze chicken gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What sides go well with chicken gravy?

Common sides include mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, or dinner rolls. A light salad also pairs nicely.

Conclusion

This easy chicken gravy recipe is a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a comforting meal that your whole family will love. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it out for your next family dinner, and enjoy the warmth and flavor that homemade chicken gravy brings to the table. Happy cooking.