Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe – Rich, Foolproof Comfort in 15 Minutes (2025)

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a beautiful roast chicken, mashed potatoes, or biscuits and thinking, “This needs gravy,” — you’re in the right place. This Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe is your new go-to for making silky, golden, perfectly seasoned gravy in just 15 minutes — no culinary degree required. Whether you have chicken drippings or not, I’ll show you how to make it both ways so you’ll never reach for a store-bought packet again.

Gravy can turn an ordinary dinner into something memorable. That’s what makes this recipe so special — it’s simple, quick, and adaptable. You can use it over baked chicken, mashed potatoes, turkey, or even biscuits for that classic comfort flavor. And the best part? It’s easily adjustable for every home cook — from weeknight dinners to big holiday feasts.

This gravy recipe balances flavor and texture using butter, flour, and quality chicken stock (or broth). A touch of seasoning and a few pro tricks will give you a gravy that’s rich but not heavy, smooth but not bland. You’ll also learn:

• The difference between gravy with drippings and gravy without drippings
• How to fix a gravy that’s too thin or too thick
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly options for busy cooks
• Flavor upgrades for herb, garlic, or creamy versions

On RecipesIngredient.com, we’re all about easy recipes that feel special — and this one is pure comfort in a saucepan. If you loved our Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe or are a fan of cozy side dishes like Honey Butter Biscuit Recipes, you’ll want to bookmark this one too.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility — drizzle it over roasted chicken, spoon it on mashed potatoes, or serve it as a dipping sauce for your leftover fried chicken. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have the best homemade chicken gravy — smooth, savory, and irresistibly comforting.

So grab your whisk, pull out a saucepan, and let’s make gravy magic together. Whether it’s your first try or your hundredth, this foolproof guide will make you say, “Why didn’t I make this sooner?”

Why This Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe Works

There’s a reason this easy chicken gravy consistently turns out smooth, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy. It’s all about balance — the right fat-to-flour ratio, properly heated stock, and a few chef-approved tricks that guarantee a silky finish every time.

1️⃣ The Perfect Roux Ratio

Every great gravy starts with a roux — the buttery base that gives body and flavor. The magic ratio here is 1:1:10 (1 part butter : 1 part flour : 10 parts liquid). Melted butter coats the flour, eliminating any raw taste. When whisked with warm chicken stock, it thickens gradually instead of clumping. This simple foundation is the secret to that luxurious, velvety texture.

2️⃣ Building Deep Flavor Without Drippings

Traditional gravies rely on roasted pan drippings, but this recipe proves you can still achieve bold, savory depth without them. A quick browning of the roux brings a nutty aroma, while using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to season precisely. A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire adds umami and rich color, while garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper round it out beautifully.

(For another flavor-forward version, check out our Best Chicken and Gravy Recipe — it’s a fantastic companion piece!)

3️⃣ Foolproof Consistency Every Time

The biggest gravy frustration? Lumps. The fix is simple — add stock slowly and whisk constantly. Warm liquid integrates more smoothly than cold, and continuous motion prevents flour pockets from forming. If it ever thickens too much, a splash of broth brings it back to pourable perfection.

4️⃣ Versatile and Make-Ahead Friendly

This gravy isn’t just a one-meal wonder. It reheats flawlessly, freezes well, and can even double as a sauce base for dishes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or casseroles. Its neutral yet savory flavor profile makes it endlessly adaptable — from weeknight dinners to holiday spreads.

That’s the beauty of this recipe: simple ingredients, smart technique, and guaranteed success.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This easy chicken gravy proves that pantry staples can create something extraordinary. You don’t need fancy ingredients — just a few quality basics and a whisk. Each component plays a role in building flavor, body, and that glossy finish that makes gravy irresistible.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

• Butter: The foundation of any good gravy. Butter provides richness and helps the flour cook evenly for a smooth, lump-free texture. For dairy-free versions, substitute vegan butter or even olive oil for a slightly lighter flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Works as the thickening agent. When whisked into hot fat, it forms a roux, which gives gravy its body. If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons per cup of broth).
• Chicken Broth or Stock: The soul of your gravy. Stock has a deeper flavor; broth is lighter and faster. Either works beautifully. Choose low-sodium so you can control the seasoning. Homemade broth gives an instant upgrade.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder gives this gravy a classic profile. Add a pinch of poultry seasoning or dried thyme for a holiday twist.
• Optional Flavor Enhancers:
  • Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce adds color and umami depth.
  • Heavy cream makes it richer and silkier.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for freshness.
  • Drippings from roast chicken (if available) for maximum flavor.

(If you love sauces like this one, you’ll also enjoy our Chicken Gravy Recipe — it uses similar base ingredients with a creamy twist.)

Where to Find Ingredients

All these ingredients are everyday staples — butter, flour, and broth are available at any grocery store. For richer flavor, try making your own How to Make Chicken and Gravy for homemade drippings you can reuse here.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, whisking in a splash of broth if it thickens.

Full Ingredient List

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for color & umami)
• 1–2 tablespoons cream (optional, for richness)
• 1 tablespoon chicken drippings (optional, for flavor depth)

(Makes ≈ 2 cups of gravy — enough for 4–6 servings.)

How to Make Easy Chicken Gravy (Step-by-Step)

Homemade gravy can feel intimidating, but I promise — once you do it this way, you’ll never go back to packets or jars. With just one saucepan, a whisk, and a few pantry ingredients, you’ll create a rich, flavorful gravy that’s silky-smooth and ready in under 15 minutes.

Preparation Steps

1. Gather Your Ingredients (2 minutes)
   Measure everything before you start — butter, flour, broth, and seasonings. Having your mise en place (everything in place) ensures your gravy comes together smoothly.
   (Tip: Warm your chicken broth in the microwave or a separate pan — warm liquid helps prevent lumps.)
2. Melt the Butter (1–2 minutes)
   Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter until it’s fully liquid and begins to bubble slightly. Don’t brown it — you want golden, not nutty, unless you prefer deeper flavor.
3. Make the Roux (2–3 minutes)
   Add the flour to the butter and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes. The mixture should look like a smooth paste and start to smell slightly nutty. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and builds the base for a velvety gravy.
4. Add Broth Gradually (3–4 minutes)
   Slowly pour in about ½ cup of warm chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Once it starts thickening, add the remaining broth gradually. Keep whisking until smooth and glossy.
5. Season and Simmer (3 minutes)
   Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For a darker color and deeper flavor, stir in a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 2–3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Adjust Texture (1 minute)
   Too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer for another minute or whisk in a tiny bit more flour dissolved in water. Gravy should coat the back of a spoon without being gloopy.
7. Taste and Finish (1 minute)
   Taste and adjust seasoning — it should be savory and balanced. Stir in optional cream for a luxurious texture or a tablespoon of chicken drippings for that homemade roast flavor.

Cooking/Baking Steps

8. Optional: Make It Without Drippings
   For a quick gravy, skip the drippings entirely — your butter and flour base will do all the heavy lifting. The soy sauce or Worcestershire substitute for color and flavor depth.
9. Optional: Make It With Drippings
   After roasting chicken, scrape up the browned bits and drippings from your pan. Strain them if necessary and use them instead of butter and some broth. This gives you a richer, classic “Sunday dinner” gravy flavor.
10. Visual Cue for Doneness
    Your gravy is ready when it’s smooth, glossy, and thick enough to coat a spoon. If you draw your finger through it and the line stays visible, it’s perfect.

Finishing & Serving

11. Strain for Silky Perfection (optional)
    For a refined texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
12. Serve Hot and Fresh
    Pour over roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or Honey Butter Biscuits for a comforting meal.
13. Pair and Enjoy
    This gravy also works wonders with Bang Bang Chicken Bites or alongside How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400 for the perfect dinner combo.

Helpful Tip:
If you ever end up with lumps — don’t panic! Just pour the gravy through a sieve or blend it with an immersion blender for a flawless finish.

With this method, you’ll have a foolproof, rich, and delicious gravy every single time.

Recipe Variations & Flavor Twists

The beauty of this Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe is that it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to elevate a simple roast chicken dinner or create a creamy sauce for pasta, these flavorful twists let you tailor the gravy to your taste and dietary needs.

Flavor Variations

1. Herb-Infused Chicken Gravy 🌿
Add a teaspoon of dried thyme, rosemary, or sage to the roux as it cooks. These herbs infuse the butter, giving your gravy an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with roast chicken or turkey.

2. Garlic-Lover’s Gravy 🧄
Whisk in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic or ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder to your butter before adding flour. For extra punch, finish with a sprinkle of roasted garlic. This version is amazing over mashed potatoes or biscuits.

3. Creamy Country-Style Gravy 🥛
Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream right before serving for a velvety finish. It’s a cross between traditional gravy and white country gravy — rich, indulgent, and perfect over Honey Butter Biscuits.

4. Mushroom Chicken Gravy 🍄
Sauté ½ cup of sliced mushrooms in butter before adding the flour. Their natural umami enhances the gravy’s depth — great for steak, pork chops, or casseroles like Casserole Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake.

5. Smoky Savory Gravy 🍗
Add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke. The flavor is reminiscent of campfire cooking — bold and comforting. Perfect alongside fried chicken or baked chicken breasts.

Dietary Modifications

Gluten-Free Option:
Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with cold broth before whisking it into the pan.

Dairy-Free Option:
Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of butter. Coconut cream or oat milk can be used for a creamy texture.

Vegan Option:
Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and add a splash of soy sauce for umami.

Low-Sodium Option:
Start with low-sodium broth and taste as you go. Avoid pre-salted butter to better control the final salt level.

Scaling the Recipe

• To Double: Simply double all ingredients. Use a larger saucepan and whisk continuously to maintain smooth consistency.
• To Halve: Cut all ingredients in half; cooking time remains the same.
• Thickening or Thinning: Simmer longer for thicker gravy, or whisk in extra broth to thin.

(Want more flavor ideas? Try the variations in our Cook Gravy Chicken — it’s full of bold twists inspired by global cuisines.)

How to Serve Easy Chicken Gravy

One of the best things about this Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe is how versatile it is. A good gravy ties an entire meal together — whether it’s poured over tender roasted chicken, fluffy mashed potatoes, or buttery biscuits, it instantly elevates comfort food into something crave-worthy.

Here are my favorite ways to serve and enjoy this silky, golden goodness 👇

1️⃣ Over Roasted or Baked Chicken

Classic and timeless. Drizzle the gravy generously over roast chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or baked thighs. It adds moisture and flavor, especially when paired with How Long to Bake Chicken Breast at 400 — a perfect duo for any weeknight dinner.

2️⃣ With Mashed Potatoes or Biscuits

Nothing says comfort like gravy over mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits. Try it with Honey Butter Biscuit Recipes for the ultimate Southern-inspired side. For a twist, top mashed potatoes with gravy and shredded rotisserie chicken for an easy comfort bowl.

3️⃣ As a Sauce for Pasta or Casseroles

Use it as a creamy sauce base for pasta or baked dishes. Stir it into Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a silky finish, or drizzle it over casseroles like Casserole Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake for added richness.

4️⃣ Pair with Chicken and Rice

This gravy complements rice beautifully. Pour it over white or brown rice for a quick, comforting meal — especially alongside Chicken and Rice Recipe. Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a finishing touch.

5️⃣ Holiday or Special Occasion Use

This recipe doubles beautifully for festive meals — Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday suppers. It pairs with turkey, stuffing, and any hearty side dish from your Thanksgiving Side Dishes Make Ahead list.

Serving Tip:

Keep your gravy warm in a small saucepan or insulated gravy boat while serving. If it thickens slightly, whisk in a tablespoon of hot broth to restore that perfect pourable texture.

This gravy doesn’t just accompany a meal — it completes it. From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, it’s the finishing touch that makes every bite unforgettable.

Chicken Gravy Recipe

Sophie

This rich and creamy chicken gravy recipe is made from scratch in just 15 minutes using simple ingredients. Perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, roast chicken, biscuits, and more

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings 4

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp butter or drippings
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder Worcestershire, herbs

Instructions

 

• Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook until golden (2–3 mins).
• Slowly add warm broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
• Simmer until thick (5–7 mins). Season to taste.
• Serve hot over chicken, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Notes

For best flavor, use homemade or low-sodium chicken broth and add seasonings gradually. If using pan drippings, be sure to separate the fat for a smoother gravy. Always warm your broth before adding to the roux to prevent lumps. Gravy thickens as it cools—add a splash of broth when reheating to bring it back to pouring consistency.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If this Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe has you craving more cozy, comfort-style dishes, you’re in luck! Here are some of my favorite recipes from Recipes Ingredient that pair perfectly with gravy — or help you build a full meal around it.

🍗 Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe

An all-time favorite! Tender chicken smothered in creamy gravy — perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty but quick.

🥔 Casserole Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake

Rich, layered comfort food at its best. A perfect main dish to serve with a drizzle of your homemade gravy.

🍞 Honey Butter Biscuit Recipes

Fluffy, golden biscuits that soak up every drop of gravy — ideal for brunch or dinner.

🧄 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A silky pasta dish where your gravy can double as a luxurious sauce base — flavorful, filling, and foolproof.

🦃 Thanksgiving Side Dishes Make Ahead

Level up your holiday table with sides that complement this gravy beautifully — from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.

🍛 Best Chicken and Gravy Recipe

If you loved this one, this rich version takes things up a notch — extra creamy, deeply flavored, and perfect for family gatherings.

These recipes are comforting, crowd-pleasing, and made to share. Try one tonight and discover how easy it is to create homemade magic in minutes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something timeless about a good homemade gravy — it’s warm, rich, and full of heart. This Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe takes that classic comfort and makes it achievable for every home cook, no matter your experience level.

In just a few simple steps, you’ve transformed butter, flour, and broth into a smooth, flavorful sauce that ties an entire meal together. Whether it’s poured over roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or flaky biscuits, this gravy is the finishing touch that turns dinner into something special.

If you loved this recipe, don’t stop here — explore more comfort classics like Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe and Honey Butter Biscuit Recipes to build a complete cozy menu.

And remember, when storing or reheating any sauce or poultry-based dish, always follow USDA food safety guidelines to keep your kitchen safe and your meals fresh.

Thank you for cooking with me — I hope this recipe brings as much comfort to your table as it does to mine. Now grab that whisk, warm up your pan, and make this gravy part of your signature dinners!