Chicken and Gravy Recipe – A Comforting and Flavorful Classic

Few meals are as comforting and satisfying as chicken and gravy recipe. This easy, homemade recipe features tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.

Whether you’re making a quick stovetop version, a slow cooker meal, or an oven-baked classic, this chicken and gravy recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients like chicken broth, butter, flour, and seasonings, you can create a creamy, savory gravy that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Best Chicken Cuts

Choosing the right cut of chicken makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are the best options:

• Bone-in, skin-on thighs – The most flavorful and juicy option. The bones add richness to the gravy.
• Boneless, skinless thighs – Tender and easy to cook, but slightly less flavorful.
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts – Leaner than thighs but still moist if cooked properly.
• Boneless, skinless breasts – A lighter option, but can dry out if overcooked.

For another chicken recipe with a unique twist, check out this Chicken with Peanut Butter Recipe, which offers a creamy and nutty variation.

Broth Options

The broth is the base of your gravy, so picking a high-quality option is key:

• Homemade chicken broth – The best choice for rich, deep flavor.
• Store-bought chicken broth – A good alternative; opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
• Chicken bouillon + water – A budget-friendly option, but watch the salt content.

Flour vs. Cornstarch for Thickening

Both flour and cornstarch can be used to thicken the gravy, but they have different effects:

• Flour – Gives the gravy a thicker, richer consistency and a slightly opaque appearance. Best for a traditional, hearty gravy.
• Cornstarch – Creates a smoother, glossy gravy and thickens more quickly. Use a cornstarch slurry (mix with water first) to avoid lumps.

If you’re looking for more seasoning ideas, check out this Pot Roast Seasoning Recipe for inspiration.

Seasoning Choices

Seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and gravy recipe. Here are some great options:

• Salt & black pepper – Essential for balanced flavor.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Adds depth and savoriness.
• Paprika – A touch of smokiness and color.
• Thyme, rosemary, or sage – Herbs that pair beautifully with chicken.
• Worcestershire sauce – A splash can add umami richness.
• Heavy cream or butter – For an extra creamy and velvety gravy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken and Gravy Recipe

1: Sear the Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken – Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. Season well – Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and your chosen seasonings.
3. Heat a pan – Use a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a bit of oil or butter.
4. Sear the chicken – Place the chicken skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
5. Remove and set aside – The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet; it will finish in the gravy.

2: Make the Gravy

1. Sauté aromatics – If desired, add diced onions or garlic to the pan and cook until softened.
2. Create a roux (if using flour) – Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden.
3. Deglaze the pan – Slowly pour in about 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Thicken the gravy – If using cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir into the broth. Simmer until thickened.
5. Season to taste – Add salt, pepper, and additional seasonings as needed.

For a crispy alternative, consider trying this Long John Silver’s Batter Recipe for a light and crunchy coating.

3: Combine and Finish Cooking

1. Return the chicken to the pan – Nestle the pieces into the gravy.
2. Simmer – Reduce heat to low and cover. Let the chicken cook for 15-20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Optional: Add cream or butter – For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter at the end.
4. Serve – Spoon gravy over the chicken and enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits!

Different Cooking Methods for Chicken and Gravy Recipe

There are multiple ways to cook chicken and gravy recipe, depending on the time you have and the texture you prefer. Here are three popular methods:

1. Stovetop Method (Quick & Classic)

Best for: A fast and flavorful meal with a rich, pan-made gravy.
Time: ~30-40 minutes

How to Cook on the Stovetop:

1. Sear the Chicken – Heat oil or butter in a skillet, season the chicken, and sear it on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Gravy – Add flour or cornstarch to the pan drippings, then slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer the Chicken – Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and let it cook in the gravy over low heat for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Serve – Adjust seasoning, add cream or butter for extra richness, and enjoy!

Pros: Quick, easy, and develops deep flavors.
Cons: Requires active attention while cooking.

2. Slow Cooker Method (Set & Forget)

Best for: Hands-off cooking with fall-apart tender chicken.
Time: 4-6 hours on low, 2-3 hours on high

How to Cook in a Slow Cooker:

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional) – For extra flavor, brown the chicken in a pan first, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Gravy Ingredients – Whisk together broth, seasonings, and either flour or cornstarch slurry, then pour over the chicken.
3. Cook on Low or High – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Thicken the Gravy (If Needed) – If the gravy is too thin, remove some liquid, whisk in more cornstarch slurry, and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes.

Pros: Easy, hands-free, and makes super tender chicken.
Cons: Gravy may need extra thickening at the end.

3. Oven-Baked Method (Rich & Comforting)

Best for: Deeply flavorful, slow-cooked-style chicken and thick gravy.
Time: ~1 hour at 375°F (190°C)

How to Cook in the Oven:

1. Sear the Chicken – Brown the chicken in a skillet first, then transfer it to a baking dish.
2. Prepare the Gravy – Make the gravy separately in a pan, then pour it over the chicken.
3. Bake – Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Optional: Remove the foil and broil for 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.

For another slow-cooked comfort dish, check out this Forgotten Chicken Recipe for an easy, baked alternative.

Pros: Deep flavors, perfect for making larger batches.
Cons: Takes longer than the stovetop method.

Tips for Thick and Creamy Gravy

A great gravy is smooth, rich, and full of flavor. Here’s how to perfect it:

1. Adjusting Consistency

• Too Thin? Simmer longer to reduce liquid or mix in more cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
• Too Thick? Add more broth or a splash of milk/cream to loosen it up.

2. Preventing Lumps

• Use a Whisk – Stir constantly when adding flour or cornstarch to avoid clumps.
• Make a Slurry – Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to hot liquid.
• Strain If Needed – If lumps form, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve.

3. Flavor-Enhancing Tips

• Deglaze the Pan – Scrape up browned bits from the chicken for extra depth.
• Butter or Cream – Stir in at the end for a smooth, velvety finish.
• Add Worcestershire or Soy Sauce – Just a teaspoon adds umami richness.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Thyme, rosemary, or sage make the gravy taste homemade.

If you enjoy rich, comforting meals, try this Salisbury Steak Recipe, which also features a delicious homemade gravy.

With these methods and tips, you’ll have a delicious, foolproof chicken and gravy recipe every time!

Variations and Flavor Add-Ins for Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Spicy Version

For a bold and spicy twist, add these ingredients to elevate the heat:

• Cayenne pepper – A small amount for mild heat or more for an intense kick.
• Red pepper flakes – Stir into the gravy for extra spice.
• Hot sauce – A splash of your favorite hot sauce enhances the depth of flavor.
• Smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness along with mild heat.
• Jalapeños or chili peppers – Finely chopped and sautéed with onions for a fresh, spicy bite.

Garlic Herb Version

For a more aromatic and herbaceous flavor, use the following:

• Fresh garlic – Minced and sautéed before making the gravy.
• Garlic powder – Adds a deep, roasted garlic flavor.
• Thyme, rosemary, and sage – Fresh or dried herbs infuse the dish with an earthy, comforting taste.
• Lemon zest – A small amount brightens the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Butter finish – Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for a smooth, rich texture.

Creamy Mushroom Gravy

For a richer and more decadent variation, try adding mushrooms:

• Sautéed mushrooms – Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms add depth and umami.
• Heavy cream or sour cream – Makes the gravy extra smooth and velvety.
• Parmesan cheese – A small amount melted into the gravy enhances the flavor.
• White wine – A splash of dry white wine gives the dish a more refined taste.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect pairing, soaking up the rich gravy. Use butter, heavy cream, or sour cream for extra fluffiness.

Rice

Steamed white rice or buttery garlic rice provides a simple and satisfying base. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, while wild rice brings texture and depth.

Biscuits

Flaky, buttery biscuits are great for scooping up gravy. Homemade or store-bought, they add a comforting touch to the meal.

Roasted Vegetables

A side of roasted vegetables balances the richness of the dish. Good options include:

• Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes for a natural sweetness.
• Brussels sprouts or broccoli for a slight bitterness that complements the creamy gravy.
• Green beans or asparagus for a fresh, crisp contrast.

For another hearty side dish, check out this 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe for a creamy, cheesy complement.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Proper storage and reheating ensure that your chicken and gravy remain fresh and flavorful. Follow these guidelines to keep your meal at its best.

Best Methods to Keep It Fresh

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Separate Storage: If possible, store the chicken and gravy separately to prevent the chicken from becoming too soggy.
• Cooling First: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before refrigerating, but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.

Freezing Tips

• Chicken Only: Cooked chicken can be frozen separately in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Gravy Storage: Freeze gravy in a separate container. If thickened with flour, it may separate when thawed. Cornstarch-based gravy holds up better in the freezer.
• Portioning: Store in individual portions for easy reheating.
• Labeling: Write the date on the container to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Tips

Stovetop (Best for Flavor and Texture)

1. Place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if it has thickened too much.
3. Cover and heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Oven (Best for Keeping Chicken Moist)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken and gravy in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
3. Heat for 15 to 20 minutes until fully warmed.

Microwave (Quickest Option)

1. Place the chicken and gravy in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel.
3. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring the gravy occasionally to ensure even heating.

Thawing Frozen Chicken and Gravy

• Overnight in the Refrigerator: The safest method, ensuring even reheating.
• Stovetop or Microwave: For faster thawing, heat directly from frozen on low heat, adding liquid as needed.

If you love meal prep-friendly dishes, check out this Country-Style Beef Ribs Recipe, another great dish for make-ahead meals.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy delicious chicken and gravy even days after cooking.

FAQs About Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken works well for this recipe. Boneless, skinless thighs are the best choice for tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option. Keep in mind that boneless chicken cooks faster, so reduce the simmering time to prevent it from drying out.

How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free:

• Use cornstarch instead of flour – Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the gravy to thicken.
• Check broth labels – Some store-bought broths contain gluten, so look for a certified gluten-free option.
• Use gluten-free seasonings – Some spice blends may have hidden gluten, so double-check ingredient labels.

What Is the Best Gravy Thickener?

The best gravy thickener depends on your preference:

• Flour – Traditional choice, creates a rich and hearty texture.
• Cornstarch – Makes a smoother, glossy gravy and is gluten-free.
• Arrowroot Powder – A great alternative to cornstarch, but it can create a slightly gel-like texture if overused.
• Potato Starch – Works similarly to cornstarch and is gluten-free.

Conclusion

This chicken and gravy recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you choose to make it spicy, herb-infused, or creamy with mushrooms, or cook it using the stovetop, slow cooker, or oven, the result is always delicious.

It’s time to try making this homemade chicken and gravy recipe yourself. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!