How to make gravy from air fryer chicken?

Making gravy from air fryer chicken is one of the highlights of an easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe . Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the air fryer and carefully collect the flavorful drippings left in the basket. These browned bits and juices are full of seasoning and natural chicken flavor. Transfer the drippings to a small saucepan. Then, follow a basic gravy method: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux Slowly add in 1 cup of chicken broth and the air fryer drippings Simmer while stirring until the gravy thickens This technique lets you enhance your easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe with bold, authentic flavor without any packaged gravy mixes.

Can I put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, absolutely. Raw chicken is perfectly safe to cook in the air fryer—and it’s actually the standard way to begin an easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe . The air fryer is designed to safely cook raw meats by circulating hot air evenly around the food. Just be sure to: Preheat your air fryer before cooking Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally Avoid overcrowding the basket so air can flow properly Cooking raw chicken in the air fryer is what gives the chicken in your easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe that signature crispy finish without the need for oil-heavy frying.

Can you make gravy from air fryer drippings?

Yes, you can—and it’s one of the most flavorful steps in an easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe . The small amount of drippings collected in the air fryer basket contains concentrated seasoning, fats, and cooked-on flavor from the chicken. While there may be less volume than traditional oven roasting, the flavor is richer. You only need 1 to 2 tablespoons of drippings to kickstart a rich, savory gravy. Combine them with butter, flour, and broth to form a smooth, delicious gravy that complements the crispy chicken perfectly. This is the secret behind why so many people prefer making their easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe at home—better flavor, fewer ingredients, and total control over your dish.

How to make your own chicken gravy?

Making chicken gravy from scratch is a simple, rewarding part of any easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe . Here’s a foolproof method: Start with butter—about 2 tablespoons in a saucepan. Add equal parts flour and stir to form a roux. Pour in chicken broth slowly, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in your air fryer drippings for added flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth, and if you want a creamy version, stir in a splash of milk or cream. Homemade gravy isn’t just better for you—it enhances every bite of your easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe with that made-from-scratch taste.

Easy Air Fryer Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Description

This easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken paired with rich, homemade gravy—without using canned soup. A perfect weeknight dinner solution that’s fast, flavorful, and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Gravy:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1–2 tbsp air fryer drippings
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tbsp cream or milk

Instructions

Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil and all spices.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
Place chicken in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 20–25 minutes (thighs) or 16–18 minutes (breasts), flipping halfway. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.
Remove chicken and collect drippings from the basket.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
Slowly add chicken broth and drippings, whisking constantly until smooth.
Simmer the gravy until thickened. Add cream if desired.
Serve chicken with gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.

Notes

For juicier chicken, brine for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
Always preheat your air fryer for crispier results.
Store chicken and gravy separately for best texture.
Reheat chicken in the air fryer and gravy on the stove.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer, Stovetop
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 430
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: easy air fryer chicken and gravy recipe, homemade chicken gravy, air fryer dinner, comfort food, quick dinner recipe