If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you are going to love this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy gravy that’s perfect for soaking up every last bit. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe hits all the right notes for comfort and satisfaction with just a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you try this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe, it might just become your go-to for those nights when you want something hearty but uncomplicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need
All of these ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect balance of taste, texture, and inviting color that truly defines this dish.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for tender, juicy meat that absorbs the spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a lovely sear on the chicken with a subtle fruity flavor that complements the spices.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic punch without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth and rounds out the seasoning profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a delightful earthy note that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild spice kick to balance the creaminess of the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates richness right in the pan and forms the base for the roux that thickens the gravy.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to build that smooth, luscious gravy texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the gravy with a savory, meaty base full of flavor.
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream: Adds creaminess and a velvety finish to the gravy.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of fresh green color and a hint of brightness when serving.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. This simple spice rub forms the wonderful base flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side until the outside is beautifully golden brown and the inside reaches 165°F. Remove your perfectly cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside—don’t worry, it’s about to get even better.
Step 2: Make the Roux for the Gravy
Lower the heat to medium and add unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, whisk in the flour quickly to create a roux, cooking it for 1–2 minutes. This step is crucial because it cooks out the raw flour taste and builds the silky texture you want in your gravy. Keep whisking to ensure it stays smooth and golden.
Step 3: Whisk in Broth and Cream
Gradually pour the chicken broth into the roux while whisking constantly. This helps avoid any lumps and starts the gravy thickening process. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes so the flavors meld and the gravy thickens up beautifully. Stir in your choice of milk or heavy cream and cook for another couple of minutes to add that rich, creamy texture that makes this recipe extra comforting.
Step 4: Reheat the Chicken in the Gravy
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the luscious gravy. Spoon extra gravy on top, then let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes to warm through and meld all those delicious flavors. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top to add a fresh herbal note and a burst of color.
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Garnishes
Chopped parsley is a classic garnish that adds brightness and a fresh pop of color, making the dish feel even more inviting. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving can add a subtle, zesty finish.
Side Dishes
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up all that rich gravy in the best way imaginable. You could also serve it over fluffy rice or alongside warm, buttery biscuits for a true comfort food experience. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans make for excellent, simple sides that balance the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts and arrange them over a bed of garlic mashed cauliflower or polenta, then drizzle the gravy over the top for an elegant presentation. You can even serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet on a rustic wooden board, encouraging everyone to dig in and savor the cozy meal together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a bit, making your next meal just as enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes well. Place the chicken breasts and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, warm the chicken and gravy gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from sticking or breaking. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce and keep it silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts or thighs will add extra depth of flavor but will require a longer cooking time. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of whole milk or cream. Ensure the milk is unsweetened and plain for best results.
Can I prepare the gravy separately?
Yes, you can make the gravy on its own and heat it up when ready to serve. This is especially handy if you prefer grilling or baking the chicken separately or want to control portion sizes better.
How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy ends up thinner than desired, whisk together a little extra flour or cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering gravy gradually until it reaches your preferred consistency.
What are some good seasoning tweaks to try?
Feel free to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage also pair beautifully with the thyme for a more herbaceous flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is pure comfort food magic with minimal effort and maximum reward. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to your table and makes everyone feel right at home. Give it a try the next time you want dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and downright delicious—you won’t regret it!
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Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy recipe offers tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and served smothered in a rich, creamy gravy made from a buttery roux and chicken broth. A comforting American classic, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to infuse them with flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
- Make the roux: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux without browning it too much.
- Prepare the gravy: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens. Stir in the milk or heavy cream and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to create a rich, creamy gravy.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes to warm through and marry the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits to soak up the delicious gravy.
- For added depth of flavor, use pan drippings from the chicken or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American