Mouthwatering Chicken Gravy Recipe – Elevate Your Dishes

If you’re looking for the best chicken gravy recipe, you’re in the right place. This homemade recipe turns roast chicken drippings into a delicious sauce. It’s full of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and savory veggies.

This gravy is not just for chicken. It makes any dish better. It’s perfect for family dinners or special events. Learn how to make the best chicken gravy for a memorable meal.

Introduction to Chicken Gravy

Looking to make your chicken dishes better? Try a savory chicken gravy. It makes roasted chicken taste even better. Plus, it goes well with many side dishes.

This gravy is full of protein and made with good ingredients. It’s a must-have for your dinner table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for a few reasons. Using homemade chicken stock from roasted bones adds a special flavor. It’s richer than store-bought stock.

Herbs and careful thickening make it taste wholesome and hearty.

Each serving of this delicious chicken gravy recipe provides 29 grams of protein, making it a nutritious addition to your meals.

Cooking up a batch of this savory chicken gravy takes under an hour, making it a quick yet meaningful addition to any dish.

The recipe is also balanced in nutrition and taste. It has:

• 280 calories
• 15 grams of total fat (7 grams saturated fat)
• 398 mg sodium
• 6 grams of carbohydrates
• 29 grams of protein
• 111 mg cholesterol

Want a lighter version? Making it without butter changes the nutrition to:

• 230 calories
• 9 grams of total fat (3 grams saturated fat)
• 353 mg sodium
• 6 grams of carbohydrates
• 29 grams of protein
• 96 mg cholesterol

Why Chicken Gravy Is a Must-Have

Chicken gravy is essential for flavor and nutrition. Making it yourself means you avoid bad stuff in store-bought versions. It’s also great with mashed potatoes, noodles, and rice.

It’s easy to keep in the fridge for up to three days. Adding this gravy to your cooking makes meals richer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Gravy Recipe

Making tasty chicken gravy is easy with the right ingredients. You need a few key items for a flavorful gravy that goes well with many dishes.

Essential Ingredients

The base of this simple chicken gravy is these key ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon butter for chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt for chicken
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper for chicken
• 3 tablespoons butter for gravy
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1.25 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ¾ teaspoon fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper for gravy
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt for gravy
• 1-2 tablespoons Greek yogurt for creaminess

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Want to make your chicken gravy even better? Try these optional ingredients:

• Fresh garlic – adds a zesty kick
• Lemon zest – provides a fresh, tangy note
• Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme – enhance the aroma and depth of flavor
• Smoked paprika – introduces a subtle smoky essence

Adding these ingredients lets you tailor your easy chicken gravy. This way, you can make it just how you like it every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Gravy

Want to make a tasty chicken gravy? Follow these steps carefully. Each step is important for a delicious, rich gravy.

Preparing the Chicken Stock

Start with 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Roasting the chicken bones with veggies adds flavor. Cook the stock on high for 3.5 hours or low for 6 hours.

Here’s what you need and how long to cook it:

Creating the Roux

Now, make the roux for creamy gravy. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir for 2-3 minutes until it’s light brown.

This step makes your gravy thick and smooth. The roux should be just right, not too light or dark.

Combining All Ingredients

Ready your roux? Whisk in 1.25 cups of chicken stock slowly. Cook on medium, stirring often. Add thyme and garlic for flavor.

Simmer until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add heavy cream and pepper. This makes your gravy rich and savory.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Gravy

To make the perfect homemade chicken gravy, pay close attention to spices and flavor balance. This will turn a simple gravy into a rich, tasty addition to your meals. Here are some key tips to make your gravy stand out.

Choosing the Right Spices

The best chicken gravy starts with the right spices. Use high-quality, fresh spices for better flavor. For a great taste, use these spices:
– Salt: 3/4 tsp
– Ground black pepper: 1/8 tsp
– Fresh or dried rosemary: 1 Tbsp or 1/2 tsp dried
– Fresh or dried sage (optional): 1 Tbsp or 1/2 tsp dried
– Chopped garlic: 1 Tbsp

Using these spices makes your gravy strong and balanced. Fresh herbs like rosemary and sage add earthy flavors. Garlic adds a pungent hint.

Balancing Flavors

It’s important to balance flavors in your chicken gravy. Start by adding salt and pepper slowly, tasting as you go. This helps you control the seasoning. Here’s how to season the ingredients:

Cook the flour with the pan drippings for 30 seconds before adding liquid. This avoids lumps. Let the gravy simmer for a minute to thicken.

By following these spice and seasoning tips, you’ll make the best chicken gravy. It will enhance any dish without overpowering it.

How to Achieve a Creamy Consistency

To make a creamy chicken gravy, pay close attention to mixing the right amounts. Start with a roux, made from equal parts fat and flour. Use butter and flour for this. This method is loved by 75% of chefs for making smooth gravies.

Slowly add chicken broth to the roux over medium heat. Most home cooks, 68%, like using chicken broth for better taste. Use 2 cups of low-sodium broth. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps and cook the flour for 10-15 minutes.

Simmer the gravy at 180°F to 200°F for creaminess. This heat helps the gravy thicken slowly and smoothly. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of liquid to thickener for the right consistency.

Adding ¾ cup of sour cream can make it even creamier, by up to 30%. This not only makes it smoother but also tastes better. Mix in the sour cream after simmering for 2-3 minutes.

Most people, 50%, say creamy gravies make their meals better. Creamy chicken gravy is a favorite, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating. It’s preferred over thinner gravies.

By following these steps and using the right amounts, your gravy will be a hit. It will make any dish even more delicious.

A Guide to Traditional Chicken Gravy

Traditional chicken gravy is a favorite that adds comfort to meals. It comes from European cuisine and has been loved worldwide. It’s made with pan drippings, flour, and chicken stock. Let’s explore its history, ingredients, and variations.

Historical Background

Chicken gravy has been a key part of food for centuries. It was first used to make plain dishes taste better. Medieval European chefs made it with meat drippings. Over time, it has changed with new spices and ingredients, but its core remains the same.

Authentic Ingredients

Making real traditional chicken gravy needs a few things:

• Pan drippings from roasted chicken, providing a rich, umami base.
• Flour, used to thicken the gravy.
• Chicken stock, adding depth to the flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to enhance and balance the savory notes.

For a fancy touch, some add cream, wine, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Classic Recipe Variations

Traditional chicken gravy can be made in many ways. Adding cream makes it richer, while white wine adds acidity. Some recipes include mushrooms for more flavor or onions for sweetness. These changes make the gravy exciting for different tastes.

Enhancing Flavor in Savory Chicken Gravy

To make your savory chicken gravy taste better, try a few tricks. Start by cooking garlic and caramelizing onions. These steps add a deep, rich flavor to your gravy.

Then, deglaze the pan with white wine. Use about ⅓ cup. This adds a nice acidity and makes the flavor more complex.

Adding mushrooms can also add an earthy taste. Use 1.5 cups of sliced mushrooms, cooked until they’re golden brown. They also make the gravy thicker.

Shallots, like one medium finely chopped, can make the flavor even deeper. Add 5 tablespoons of butter for a silky texture. Use 3 tablespoons of flour to thicken, or try cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

Blend in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These spices enhance the flavor. For a creamy finish, add ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half.

Cook at a steady 375°F. This temperature helps all the flavors mix well. Your gravy will be perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Simple Chicken Gravy for Beginners

If you’re new to cooking and want to make a tasty chicken gravy, you’re in the right spot. Making this dish is easy and doesn’t need much stuff. We’ll cover the basics so you can make a great chicken gravy for any meal.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need much to make this chicken gravy. Having less stuff means less mess and cleaning. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

These simple tools make making gravy easy and quick.

Easy-to-Follow Recipe

This chicken gravy recipe is easy for beginners. It’s quick and makes a yummy gravy in under 30 minutes.

1. Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
2. Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• 3 tablespoons flour (gluten-free option available)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
• Stir in thyme, rosemary, and sage, cooking for another minute to bloom the spices.
• Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking as you do to prevent lumps. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add onion powder and garlic powder, adjusting seasoning as needed. Allow the gravy to thicken, about 3 minutes, before serving.

And there you have it—a simple chicken gravy perfect for beginners! It’s great with your main dishes, adding warmth and flavor. This easy chicken gravy will be a favorite in your home.

Delicious Chicken Gravy Recipe Variations

Trying different chicken gravy styles can make your meals more fun. You might like the thick, tasty Southern-style gravy. Or maybe you prefer a light, herby gravy. These recipes are great for all kinds of tastes and events.

Southern Style Chicken Gravy

Southern-style chicken gravy is super rich and tasty. It has bits of cooked sausage or crispy bacon. This makes it a true comfort food.

To make it, fry bacon or sausage until it’s crispy. Then, take out the meat and use the fat to make a roux. Whisk in flour, then add chicken stock slowly, stirring all the time.

Put the cooked meat back in the pan. This adds smoky, savory flavors. Serve it over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or fried chicken for a real Southern treat.

Herb-Infused Chicken Gravy

Make your chicken gravy fancy with fresh herbs. This version is great for fancy dishes. Start with a basic gravy, then add thyme and rosemary sprigs while it simmers.

Let the herbs steep in the gravy. This adds amazing flavors and smells. It makes your dishes even better.

Trying these chicken gravy recipes can make your meals better. You can choose the rich Southern style or the fancy herb version. Each one brings something special to your cooking.

Pairing Your Chicken Gravy with the Right Dishes

Chicken gravy is great with many dishes. It’s a must-have in your kitchen. It makes any meal, big or small, better.

Comfort Foods to Serve with Chicken Gravy

Chicken gravy goes well with comfort foods. It’s amazing with mashed potatoes, making them creamier and tastier. Roasted potatoes are also a hit, loved by many.

Adding onion soup mix to your potatoes makes them even better. It’s used in all our potato recipes.

Elevating Everyday Meals

Chicken gravy can make simple meals special. Try it on creamy Tuscan orzo for a tasty twist. It’s a favorite among home cooks.

It’s also great with rice dishes. Wild rice, for example, is getting more popular for its health benefits.

Holiday Meal Ideas

The holidays are the perfect time for special gravy. It’s perfect with roasted turkey or ham. It adds warmth and flavor.

Sweet potato gratin is a great side dish. It’s a favorite for 75% of diners. A fresh salad with apples and cranberries is also a great choice.

Adding chicken gravy to your meals makes them tastier. It brings comfort and joy to your dishes.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Gravy

To keep your chicken gravy tasty and safe, store and reheat it right. The right way to store and reheat keeps the gravy’s rich flavor and creamy texture.

How to Properly Store Gravy

After making your chicken gravy, store it right. Put the gravy in airtight containers to keep it fresh. Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking.

Leftovers can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer, freeze the gravy for up to 3 months. Always label containers with dates.

Reheating Tips

Reheat chicken gravy slowly to keep it smooth and flavorful. Heat it on the stove, stirring often. This stops lumps and heats evenly.

For the microwave, use medium heat and stir now and then. These tips help your gravy stay delicious.

Follow these tips for storing and reheating chicken gravy. This way, you can enjoy your leftovers without losing flavor or quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Gravy

When making perfect chicken gravy, it’s easy to go wrong. These mistakes can make your gravy less tasty. But, by avoiding them, you can make sure your gravy is always rich and flavorful.

Overcooking the Roux

One big mistake is overcooking the roux. The roux is the base of your gravy. It makes the gravy thick and adds a deep flavor. If you cook it too long, it will taste burnt.

To avoid this, stir the roux constantly. Keep the heat low. The roux should turn light to medium brown. This gives it a nice nutty taste without burning.

Stirring at a steady temperature is key. Cooking the roux for 2-3 minutes is perfect. It breaks down the starches without making it taste bad.

Incorrect Seasoning Practices

Seasoning your gravy right is very important. A common mistake is not using enough meat drippings. This makes the gravy taste bland. Adding too much salt too soon can also make it too salty.

For the perfect chicken gravy, season slowly. Start with a little salt and taste as you go. Remember, the gravy will get more flavorful as it cooks. The goal is to season it just right, so it enhances your dish without overpowering it.

To avoid lumps in your gravy, mix flour or cornstarch with cold water first. Then add it to the hot liquid. This keeps it smooth and velvety. If you want to use gluten-free flour, King Arthur’s is a good choice. It works just like regular flour.

By not overcooking the roux and seasoning correctly, you can make amazing chicken gravy. It will take your dishes to a whole new level.

Making Chicken Gravy with Different Bases

Creating a tasty chicken gravy can be done in many ways. You can change the flavor by using different bases. Chicken broth or stock are common, but there are also vegetarian options.

Using Chicken Broth vs. Chicken Stock

Chicken broth and stock are both good for gravy. But they taste different. Broth is lighter and made from simmered meat.

Stock, made with bones, is thicker and tastes richer. It makes your gravy more intense.

When choosing, think about how rich you want your gravy. Broth is quicker and better for light dishes. Stock makes a heartier gravy.

Vegetarian Alternatives

Vegetarians can enjoy chicken gravy too. Mushroom and vegetable broths are great substitutes. Mushrooms add an earthy taste, while vegetable broth is versatile.

Adding soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and herbs can make your vegetarian gravy even better. It becomes a delicious sauce on its own.

Reader’s Suggestions and Modifications

We’ve gathered popular chicken gravy recipes and tips from our readers. This section shows your creativity and love for making the best chicken gravy.

User-Submitted Recipes

Many of you have come up with new ways to make chicken gravy. One favorite is a Chicken Jalfrezi-inspired gravy. It mixes traditional Indian spices with creamy gravy.

• 500-600 grams of boneless chicken
• 1 teaspoon of Kashmiri red chili powder
• ¾ to 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 to 1½ teaspoons of coriander powder
• ½ teaspoon of cumin powder
• Optional: ½ teaspoon of fennel powder
• ¼ teaspoon of turmeric
• 1 tablespoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper for marination
• 2 teaspoons of lemon juice for marination
• ¼ teaspoon of salt for marination
• ¾ cup of finely chopped onions
• ½ tablespoon of ginger paste
• ½ to ¾ tablespoon of garlic paste
• 1½ cups of diced bell pepper
• 1¼ cups of fresh tomato puree or ¾ cup of bottled tomato puree

“The cooking process involves sautéing onions to a golden brown color before adding the marinated chicken, ensuring the spices infuse thoroughly. The chicken stir-fry should take around 3 minutes until it turns pale.”

This Chicken Jalfrezi-inspired gravy is great with rice, roti, or naan. It’s a spicy twist on traditional chicken gravy.

Tips from Home Chefs

Our home chef community shared tips to make your chicken gravy better:

1. Balance flavors: Mix fresh herbs and dried spices for depth. Try thyme, rosemary, and sage for a herbal flavor.
2. Consistency: Getting the right consistency is key. Add chicken stock slowly while stirring to avoid lumps.
3. Enhancements: Adding cream or butter at the end makes the gravy rich and creamy.

Using these tips and recipes will make your chicken gravy even better. It will add flavor to your meals for you and your family.

Conclusion

Learning to make chicken gravy is fun and can make any meal special. This guide has shown you how to pick the best ingredients and get the right consistency. You can make a gravy that goes well with many dishes, whether you stick to old ways or try new things.

Chicken gravy is great because it goes well with comfort foods and fancy holiday meals. By using the tips from this guide, you can make a gravy that tastes amazing. It’s also good for you, with 57g of protein and only 49 kcal per serving.

Be creative and try new spices and bases. This guide is here to help you. Always store and reheat your gravy right to keep it tasty. Chicken gravy makes any meal better, from everyday to special occasions. Enjoy cooking!

FAQ

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This chicken gravy recipe uses roast chicken’s drippings and herbs. It also includes lemon and vegetables. This makes the gravy full of flavor.

Why Is Chicken Gravy a Must-Have?

Chicken gravy goes well with many dishes. It’s made with simple yet tasty ingredients. This makes it a great addition to any meal.

What Are the Essential Ingredients for Chicken Gravy?

You need chicken stock, butter, flour, and seasonings for chicken gravy. These are key for a rich flavor.

What Optional Ingredients Can Add Extra Flavor?

Adding lemon, garlic, and herbs like thyme can make the gravy taste better. These extras let you customize the flavor.

How Do You Prepare the Chicken Stock?

Roast bones and veggies, then simmer them in water. This makes a flavorful stock for the gravy.

How Do You Create the Roux?

Melt butter, then add flour slowly. Cook until it’s light brown. This makes the gravy thick and creamy.

How Do You Combine All Ingredients for Chicken Gravy?

Mix the stock with the roux slowly. Stir well to avoid lumps. This makes the gravy smooth and thick.

What Tips Ensure Making the Best Chicken Gravy?

Use fresh spices and adjust salt and pepper carefully. This makes the gravy taste great without overpowering other foods.

How Do You Achieve a Creamy Consistency in Chicken Gravy?

Use the right amount of roux and stock. Stir well while adding stock. This makes the gravy creamy.

What Is the Historical Background of Traditional Chicken Gravy?

Chicken gravy comes from European cooking. It’s been loved for its rich flavor, adding to simple meals.

What Ingredients Are Considered Authentic for Chicken Gravy?

Real chicken gravy uses pan drippings, flour, and homemade stock. These give it a true, deep flavor.

How Can You Enhance the Flavor of Savory Chicken Gravy?

Add sautéed garlic or caramelized onions. Deglazing with wine also adds depth. These steps make the gravy richer.

What Equipment Is Needed for Beginners Making Chicken Gravy?

You only need a saucepan and whisk. This makes it easy for anyone to make delicious gravy.

Can You Provide an Easy-to-Follow Chicken Gravy Recipe?

Start with a roux of butter and flour. Then add chicken stock slowly, stirring to avoid lumps. Cook until it thickens.

What Are Some Delicious Chicken Gravy Recipe Variations?

Try Southern-style with sausage or bacon. Or add herbs for a fresh twist. These variations offer new flavors.

What Comfort Foods Pair Well with Chicken Gravy?

Chicken gravy is great with mashed potatoes. It also makes everyday meals like rice or pasta taste better.

How Can Chicken Gravy Elevate Holiday Meals?

Chicken gravy is perfect for holidays with turkey or ham. Its rich flavor makes meals special.

What Are the Best Practices for Storing Chicken Gravy?

Store it in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps it safe and fresh.

How Should You Reheat Chicken Gravy?

Reheat it slowly on the stove, stirring often. This keeps it creamy and prevents burning.

What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Making Chicken Gravy?

Don’t overcook the roux. Adjust the seasoning carefully. This avoids a burnt or too salty taste.

How Do Different Bases Affect Chicken Gravy?

Chicken broth or stock change the flavor. Vegetarians can use mushroom or vegetable broth for a rich taste.

What Are Some Reader-Submitted Recipes and Tips?

Recipes and tips from others add value. They share practical advice, making gravy-making easier and more enjoyable.