Easy Homemade Chicken and Gravy Recipe

chicken and gravy recipe

Chicken and gravy is a beloved comfort dish that families have enjoyed for years. This simple recipe brings the same tasty flavors you love, making it quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal at home.

The mix of tender chicken and creamy gravy is a culinary dream. This recipe makes a delicious dish that everyone will want more of. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can make your meals as good as a restaurant’s.

Key Takeaways

Easy-to-follow recipe for classic chicken and gravy
Delivers the same delicious flavors as restaurant-quality dishes
Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family
Utilizes common household ingredients for a satisfying homemade meal

The Perfect Chicken and Gravy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chicken and gravy is a favorite dish in many American homes. It has been loved for generations. This classic comfort food has its roots in early colonial days, when cooks made delicious meals from simple ingredients.

Today, it’s still a top choice for family dinners. It offers a cozy and satisfying meal experience.

History of Chicken and Gravy

The story of chicken and gravy starts in the colonial era. European settlers in America used local ingredients to make hearty dishes. As chicken farming grew, cooks found ways to use every part of the bird.

They used slow-cooking and rich gravies. Over time, this simple meal became a big part of American cooking.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken and gravy recipe is loved for its easy steps and rich flavors. It uses fresh ingredients and classic cooking methods. This makes the dish taste like home.

The tender chicken and smooth gravy please everyone. It’s a favorite for family dinners.

Essential Kitchen Tools

To make this recipe like a restaurant, you need some key tools. A good skillet or Dutch oven is key for searing the chicken and making the gravy. A sharp knife helps prep the ingredients fast.

A sturdy whisk is a must for a smooth gravy. These tools help you make a delicious dish.

“Chicken and gravy is the ultimate comfort food, transporting you back to the warmth and familiarity of home-cooked meals.”

Ingredients You’ll Need for Success

Making the perfect chicken and gravy dish starts with the right ingredients. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting, this list will help you make delicious food every time.

For the juicy, flavorful chicken, you’ll need:

Whole chicken or chicken parts (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
Olive oil or melted butter for searing
Salt and black pepper for seasoning
Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

To create the rich, velvety gravy, gather:

Unsalted butter
All-purpose flour
Chicken broth or stock
Heavy cream or milk (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

With these chicken and gravy recipe essentials, you’re ready to make a comforting, poultry dishes that everyone will love. Let’s start cooking!

“The secret to the best chicken and gravy is in the small details. Perfectly seared chicken and a silky smooth gravy make all the difference.”

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Learn how to make a delicious chicken and gravy dish at home. We’ll show you how to season the chicken and make a smooth gravy. Follow our steps for a successful family dinner.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by drying the chicken with paper towels and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and spices. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak into the meat.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook until it’s golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes each side. Then, take the chicken out and set it aside.

Making the Perfect Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter and mix in flour to make a roux. Cook the roux, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. This removes any raw flour taste.

Slowly add chicken stock, whisking well. Scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the browned bits. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Combining the Components

Put the seared chicken back in the skillet with the gravy. Make sure the chicken is covered in gravy. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and juicy.

To serve, place the chicken and gravy on a platter or individual plates. Enjoy this dish with your family, relishing the tender chicken and rich gravy.

Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results

Making the perfect homestyle cooking dish, like this tasty poultry dish of chicken and gravy, is more than just a recipe. To make your meal as good as a restaurant’s, try these expert tips:

Properly season the chicken. Use a mix of salt, pepper, and herbs or spices on the chicken before cooking. This adds a lot of flavor.
Watch the cooking temperature closely. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. This prevents the chicken from getting dry and tough.
Make a rich, velvety gravy. Mix the pan drippings with flour, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer until it’s smooth and thick.
Focus on presentation. Arrange the chicken and gravy nicely on the plate. Add fresh parsley or herbs for a pop of color. This makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

By using these tips, you can steer clear of common mistakes and make poultry dishes that rival restaurant quality. With a bit more effort and attention to detail, your homestyle cooking will impress everyone.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

There are many ways to serve homemade chicken and gravy. Its rich flavors go well with classic family dinner ideas and homestyle cooking favorites.

Best Side Dishes

For a complete meal, try these side dishes with chicken and gravy:

Fluffy mashed potatoes
Buttery egg noodles
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
Fresh dinner rolls or biscuits
Creamy coleslaw or a crisp green salad

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

For leftovers, keep chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often. Or, reheat individual servings in the microwave, checking and stirring every 30 seconds until hot.

Make-Ahead Options

Save time on busy nights by making this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and gravy, let it cool, and then store it. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat as usual.

Follow these tips to enjoy homemade chicken and gravy any time. It’s a great choice for family dinner ideas and homestyle cooking at home.

Conclusion

Enjoy the comforting taste of chicken and gravy, a classic that always hits the spot. This easy recipe offers tender chicken and smooth gravy. It’s perfect for family dinners and cozy nights.

Follow the simple steps in this guide to make chicken and gravy at home. Season the chicken right, get the gravy just right, and mix it all up for a great meal.

Try this chicken and gravy recipe for a taste of nostalgia. It brings warmth and comfort. Pair it with mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits for a full meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready and start cooking. The smell of chicken and gravy will make your home feel welcoming. Your family and friends will love it.

“Comfort food at its finest, this chicken and gravy recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.”

Make chicken and gravy a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy making it and every delicious bite. It brings warmth and joy to your table.

Nutritional Information and Variations

This chicken and gravy recipe is not just tasty but also good for you. It has lean protein, complex carbs, and important vitamins and minerals. The chicken is a great source of protein, and the gravy adds flavor without too much fat or salt.

Want a healthier version? Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to cut down on fat. Try different flours like whole wheat or gluten-free for a lighter option. Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor without extra salt.

Want to try something new? Add smoked paprika or lemon zest to the gravy. This recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own. It’s perfect for both healthy meals and tasty poultry dishes.

FAQ

What is the key to making the perfect chicken and gravy?

To make great chicken and gravy, focus on quality ingredients and cooking. Use fresh, high-quality chicken. Also, brown the meat well and make a rich, flavorful gravy. These steps are key to getting restaurant-quality results at home.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works well. Just shred or chop it and add it to the gravy near the end. This saves time when you’re in a hurry.

How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, try a few things. Make a slurry with cornstarch or flour and cold water. Whisk it into the gravy and cook a few minutes, stirring constantly. Or, let it simmer uncovered to evaporate some liquid and thicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this chicken and gravy ahead. Prepare the chicken and gravy separately and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Reheat them together on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken and gravy?

Serve chicken and gravy with classic sides like mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. Steamed or roasted veggies and warm dinner rolls or biscuits are also great. These sides complement the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy beautifully.