If there’s one meal that always guarantees smiles around my dinner table, it’s this classic Chicken and Gravy Recipe. It’s a true comfort food favorite, with tender, golden seared chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy. Every bite is pure cozy bliss. This dish comes together fast enough for busy weeknights yet feels special enough for Sunday suppers. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery biscuits, this Chicken and Gravy Recipe brings everyone rushing to the kitchen with anticipation—just wait until you smell it cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how just a handful of ingredients make Chicken and Gravy Recipe so deeply flavorful. Each one is simple but plays a big role in creating juicy chicken, velvety gravy, and an aroma that has everyone asking, “Is dinner ready yet?”
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender—the perfect canvas for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
- Olive oil or unsalted butter: Choose olive oil for a lighter flavor or butter for comforting richness when searing your chicken.
- Garlic powder: This pantry staple infuses the chicken with warm, savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder: A little bit goes a long way, adding depth and that something special to both the chicken and the gravy.
- Paprika: Not just for color! Paprika brings gentle warmth and a bit of earthy sweetness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t forget to add these to taste at each step.
- Chicken broth: The base of the gravy. Use a good-quality broth for a flavor-packed, crave-worthy sauce.
- Chicken gravy mix or all-purpose flour: Gravy mix for easy thickening, or flour if you prefer making your gravy old-school from scratch.
- Heavy cream or milk (optional): Stir this in for an even creamier, more luxurious gravy (trust me, it’s worth it!).
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle adds fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbaceous brightness at the finish.
How to Make Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry. This helps the seasonings stick and promotes a beautiful sear in the skillet. Generously sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy—these spices form the flavor foundation for your Chicken and Gravy Recipe!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Breasts
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers or foams. Lay in the chicken breasts and let them cook without moving for 4–5 minutes per side. You want to see a gorgeous, golden crust form—this not only locks in juices but leaves those delicious browned bits (fond) that will give your gravy next-level flavor. When the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F, transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Reduce the heat to medium. If you’re using a gravy packet, simply whisk it into the chicken broth, then pour it into the skillet and start scraping up the flavorful browned bits. If you’re using flour, sprinkle it into the drippings and whisk for about a minute. Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly for a smooth, lump-free gravy. Let it gently simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until luscious and thickened.
Step 4: Finish and Cream It Up
If you love your chicken and gravy extra creamy, now’s the best part—stir in the heavy cream or milk. Just a splash makes a silky difference and transforms your Chicken and Gravy Recipe into pure, spoonable comfort. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; a little extra salt and pepper really brings out the flavors.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Serve
Nestle those golden chicken breasts right back into the skillet, spooning some of that glorious gravy over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld. To finish, scatter with fresh parsley if you like a pop of green. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits—don’t forget an extra spoonful of gravy for good measure!
How to Serve Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh parsley brightens every plate and makes your dish look as inviting as it tastes. If you have time, add extra-cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color drama. Even a few chives or thin-sliced green onions can be lovely for a subtle hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
Chicken and Gravy Recipe pairs perfectly with classic mashed potatoes, letting all that velvety gravy shine. If you’re a biscuit lover, serve with fluffy buttermilk biscuits for true Southern-style comfort. Rice or egg noodles soak up the sauce just as well, and roasted veggies or a green salad round out the meal with a crisp, colorful contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken sliced over toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich smothered in gravy. Or, cut the chicken into strips and pile it over creamy polenta for a rustic, impressive presentation. If you’ve got leftovers, try tucking shredded chicken and a spoonful of gravy into a baked potato for serious lunch goals!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keeping the chicken nestled in the gravy helps it stay moist and flavorful, making leftovers taste just as good (if not better!) the next day.
Freezing
This Chicken and Gravy Recipe is surprisingly freezer-friendly. Let everything cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw gently overnight in the refrigerator for best results and minimal texture change.
Reheating
For stovetop reheating, place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or even a touch of cream to maintain that velvety sauce. Stir and warm gently until heated through—don’t overcook or the chicken can dry out. Individual portions reheat beautifully in the microwave, too, making leftovers extra convenient.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs (especially bone-in, skinless or not) work deliciously in this Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time; thighs often need a few extra minutes to reach that safe 165°F internal temperature.
What if I want to make the gravy gluten-free?
Easy solution! Just use a gluten-free gravy mix, or substitute a certified gluten-free flour for thickening. The rest of the Chicken and Gravy Recipe is naturally gluten-free so everyone can dig in fearlessly.
How can I tell when my chicken is cooked through?
The most reliable way is by using a meat thermometer; you’re looking for an internal temp of 165°F/74°C. If you slice into the thickest part and the juices run clear, that’s a good sign, but a thermometer is always safest.
Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?
Definitely! Add sliced mushrooms along with the chicken for extra earthy flavor, or toss in diced onions, bell peppers, or even spinach. They’ll cook down beautifully and add even more depth to your Chicken and Gravy Recipe.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Of course! Simply use olive oil instead of butter and skip the heavy cream or milk, or substitute with an unsweetened non-dairy milk (like oat, soy, or almond) for the gravy. The dish will still be delightfully saucy and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll give this easy, soul-soothing Chicken and Gravy Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those gems that never fails to satisfy, turning everyday staples into a meal everyone looks forward to—again and again. Save this one for busy nights or family gatherings, and don’t be surprised when it becomes an instant favorite at your table, too!
Print
Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken and Gravy recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory gravy that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Gravy:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) chicken gravy mix or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional for creamier gravy)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil or butter in a skillet, sear chicken breasts until cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the Gravy: Prepare gravy using broth and gravy mix or flour in the skillet. Simmer until thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon gravy over the top, and simmer briefly. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Add sliced mushrooms when cooking the chicken for extra flavor.
- You can use bone-in chicken thighs instead; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with gravy
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
