Chicken And Gravy Recipe Bursting With Love

Craving something cozy, quick, and downright comforting? This chicken and gravy recipe is your go-to solution for a hearty, homemade dinner that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for family or just need an easy weeknight meal, this dish delivers tender skillet chicken smothered in a creamy, savory gravy—all made from scratch with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

This recipe’s adaptability is what I adore most about it. You can pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, or even steamed rice—whatever you’ve got in the kitchen! Plus, with just one skillet and a few pantry staples, it transforms an ordinary night into a comfort food dinner worth savoring.

Let’s dive into a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Key Benefits of This Chicken and Gravy Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, this chicken and gravy recipe checks every box. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table—forks ready, no questions asked. The following explains why you should keep this recipe handy:

Quick and Easy with Big Flavor

No need for fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. This recipe uses simple pantry staples like flour, butter, and chicken broth to create a rich, savory gravy that tastes like it simmered for hours—but comes together in under 40 minutes.

One-Skillet Wonder

Less mess, less cleanup! Everything cooks in one pan, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes. Plus, using a skillet helps build deep flavor as you sear the chicken and deglaze the pan for the gravy.

Versatile and Family-Friendly

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to switch things up, this dish adapts easily:

• Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs—both work beautifully.
• Make it gluten-free by swapping flour for a cornstarch slurry.
• Want a richer taste? Add a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe keeps well and even tastes better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently for a quick lunch or dinner—ideal for busy weekdays or planned meal prep.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something about tender chicken coated in warm, homemade gravy that soothes the soul. It’s a timeless Southern-inspired supper that’s perfect served over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.

Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this chicken and gravy recipe is a comforting, home-cooked favorite that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to make it happen next.

Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Before we dive into the skillet, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. This recipe keeps it simple and pantry-friendly, while still delivering that rich, homemade flavor you love. Here’s what to gather:

For the Chicken

• Four skinless, boneless breasts of chicken (or thighs for more succulent meat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)

Pro Tip: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it helps get that golden crust when searing.

For the Homemade Gravy

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or use cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Did You Know? The butter and flour combo forms a roux, the secret base to a silky, lump-free gravy.

Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor)

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• A splash of heavy cream (for a richer texture)

This list keeps things straightforward but flexible—you can easily adjust based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. Up next, we’ll walk through how to turn these ingredients into a cozy, homestyle chicken and gravy dinner you’ll want to make on repeat.

How to Make This Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Ready to bring it all together? You can prepare this simple recipe for chicken with gravy through a few easy steps which you will want to repeat multiple times because of its fantastic outcome. Let’s go through it together, step by step, as if we’re cooking together.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by giving your chicken a flavor boost.

1. Pat your chicken breasts dry using paper towels.
2. Thoroughly coat both sides with a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
3. A large skillet receives olive oil heating at medium-high temperature.
4. When the pan is heated, add the chicken and sear it for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through and golden brown.

Tip: To achieve the ideal sear, cook the chicken in batches if necessary rather than packing the pan too full.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Now it’s time for that golden gravy base.

1. After taking the chicken out of the skillet, place it aside and keep it warm.
2. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until it turns light brown and smells toasty.

This step is key to a smooth, lump-free gravy.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Let’s bring it all together.

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
2. Add thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the gravy thickens to your liking.

Too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer a bit longer.

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Gravy

Add the chicken back to the skillet, spooning some gravy over the top.

• Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

You’re Done!

And that’s it—you’ve just made a homemade chicken and gravy dinner from scratch. The chicken is juicy, the gravy is rich and flavorful, and your kitchen smells amazing.

🧡 Serve it hot and watch how fast it disappears from the plate!

Next up: tips, tricks, and tasty variations to make this dish your own.

Pro Tips and Tasty Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic chicken and gravy recipe, the fun begins! This dish is incredibly adaptable, so whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, entertaining guests, or just craving something a little different, these tips and twists will help you get it just right—every time.

Pro Tips for Foolproof Flavor

• Pound the chicken before cooking for even thickness. This helps each piece cook uniformly while locking in its moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chicken is perfectly done at 165°F (74°C).
• Deglaze the pan after searing chicken. Don’t toss out those brown bits! Add a splash of broth before making the roux to capture all that delicious flavor.
• Whisk constantly when making the gravy to avoid lumps and get that velvety-smooth texture.
• Allow the chicken to sit in the gravy for a while before serving. It soaks up the sauce and keeps every bite extra flavorful.

Flavorful Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on it? Try one of these tasty twists:

• Herb Chicken and Gravy
  Add rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning to the gravy for a more aromatic finish.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Gravy
  Stir in a few cloves of minced garlic and a splash of cream for a cozy, garlicky kick.
• Mushroom Chicken Gravy
  Sauté sliced mushrooms before making the roux, then fold them into the gravy for earthy depth.
• Buttermilk Southern-Style Twist
  Replace part of the broth with buttermilk for a tangy, rich Southern-style gravy.
• Gluten-Free Version
  Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the gravy without sacrificing texture.

This dish is designed to be flexible, foolproof, and full of comfort, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. With just a few adjustments, you can transform this classic into something totally new—without losing that soul-warming goodness.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Gravy

So, your chicken and gravy recipe is ready, the kitchen smells amazing, and now comes the best part—serving it up! Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or dressing it up for guests, these pairing ideas will help you build a satisfying, well-rounded plate.

Classic Comfort Combos

• Mashed Potatoes
  The ultimate comfort food pairing. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up all that savory gravy like a dream.
• Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice
  A great gluten-free, budget-friendly base that keeps things simple and hearty.
• Buttery Egg Noodles
  Toss them with a little parsley and olive oil—perfect for twirling with bites of juicy chicken and rich gravy.

Add Some Greens for Balance

Balance out the richness with fresh veggies:

• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Sautéed spinach with garlic
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic

Tip: A simple green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness and keeps your plate fresh and light.

Don’t Forget the Bread

Gravy loves bread, so don’t leave it out!

• Flaky buttermilk biscuits
• Crusty baguette slices
• Soft dinner rolls

These are perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy—and let’s be honest, you won’t want to waste a drop!

Bonus: Beverage Pairings

• Iced tea or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing, light option
• A chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the savory chicken and creamy gravy nicely

Whatever sides you choose, this dish shines as the centerpiece of a cozy, soul-satisfying meal. Whether you go classic or creative, the beauty of homestyle chicken and gravy is that it fits just about any dinner vibe.

Conclusion

There’s just something about the comforting simplicity of a chicken and gravy recipe that makes it the perfect go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or hosting a cozy gathering, this dish is a surefire winner. The juicy chicken paired with the creamy, savory gravy is a combination that satisfies on every level.

Here’s Why You’ll Keep Coming Back:

• Quick and Easy: You don’t need hours to make a flavorful, home-cooked meal.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves it—kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite herbs, veggies, and sides for endless possibilities.
• Comforting and Filling: This dish truly wraps you up in warmth, making it a perfect choice for chilly nights or when you just need a little extra comfort food.

The best part? It’s made from scratch, so you know exactly what’s in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, get that skillet sizzling, and enjoy a plate of pure comfort. I can’t wait for you to try this chicken and gravy recipe—you won’t be disappointed!

FAQs

I know you might have a few burning questions, so let’s tackle some common ones to help you get the most out of this chicken and gravy recipe.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes! Bone-in chicken adds extra flavor, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Sear it first, then reduce the heat and cook for about 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can still make the gravy the same way—just be sure to add a bit more broth to account for the extra cooking time.

What can I substitute for flour in the gravy?

To make the gravy gluten-free, just substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. To use cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then add it to the gravy once it’s simmering. It’ll thicken up beautifully!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat. Consider adding a splash of broth to thin out the gravy if needed.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, and use plant-based milk or additional broth in place of any cream. The result will still be rich and flavorful!

What can I serve with chicken and gravy?

The possibilities are endless! Some classic pairings include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed rice
• Roasted vegetables
• Buttermilk biscuits
  For a light touch, you could also serve it with a green salad or steamed broccoli.

Have more questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments! I’m always here to help make your cooking experience as easy and enjoyable as possible.