How To Make Chicken And Gravy Recipe

To make an easy chicken and gravy recipe, start by cooking chicken until golden and tender. Then, create the gravy by combining chicken drippings with flour and broth, whisking until smooth. Pour the gravy over the chicken, and serve hot for a simple, comforting meal!

Craving something warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious? Look no further than this Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe! Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, this recipe is foolproof and perfect for any day of the week. With tender chicken drenched in savory gravy, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to hit the spot. And guess what? We’ve got all the tips and tricks to make it even easier—plus, some amazing side dish ideas that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Stick around, because we’ve got all the info you need to make this recipe your new go-to family favorite. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy

The magic of a perfect chicken and gravy meal starts with the right ingredients. Whether you’re using juicy chicken thighs or a whole chicken, or you’re creating the smoothest, lump-free gravy, each component plays a crucial role. Let’s break it all down!

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken and Gravy

• Chicken
  You can use various cuts of chicken depending on your preference:
• Chicken Thighs: Rich, tender, and full of flavor – these are perfect for slow cooking or stovetop browning.
• Chicken Breasts: Leaner but still tender, especially when slow-cooked or simmered in broth.
• Whole Chicken: Roasted whole and then shredded into pieces – this makes for a hearty, comforting meal!
• Gravy Ingredients
  To create the perfect gravy, you’ll need:
• Flour or Cornstarch: These are your thickening agents, making the gravy smooth and luxurious.
• Broth: Chicken broth is a classic choice, but beef, vegetable, or even mushroom broth can add depth and variety to the flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a creamy, flavorful base for your gravy.
• Salt and Pepper: Key ingredients for seasoning and enhancing the flavor balance.

Key Seasonings and Their Role in Flavor

• Garlic Powder: Brings out a savory depth of flavor that complements the chicken and gravy.
• Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the gravy.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley bring aromatic layers that enhance the dish.
• Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky flavor and vibrant color.
• Bay Leaves: These help infuse a herbal fragrance when simmering in the gravy.

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

• Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage can give the gravy a more aromatic, fresh flavor.
• Garlic and Onions: Sautéed garlic and onions add a savory, caramelized flavor to your gravy.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: For a creamier, richer gravy, adding a bit of cream or milk can elevate the texture.
• Worcestershire Sauce or Soy Sauce: A splash of either adds umami and complexity to the gravy.

Variations Based on Regional or International Influences

• Southern Gravy: Buttermilk gravy with a touch of Cajun seasoning can give you a perfect southern twist, especially great with fried chicken.
• French-Style: Add white wine, fresh herbs like tarragon or thyme, and a little Dijon mustard for a classic French-inspired gravy.
• Mexican Flair: Spice up the gravy with cumin, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, vibrant flavor. Serve it over roasted chicken for a Mexican-inspired meal.

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Preparation Tips for Chicken and Gravy

The prep is where all the magic happens. Getting your chicken seasoned and ready is key, and knowing how to create smooth gravy will make all the difference. Let’s dive into some helpful tips!

How to Prepare Chicken for Gravy

Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken
Properly seasoning your chicken is essential for flavorful meat and gravy. Here’s how to do it right:

• Pat Your Chicken Dry: If you’re using skin-on cuts, pat your chicken dry with paper towels.This will allow it to become crispy during cooking.
• Season Generously: Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides of the chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of thyme or rosemary. Let the seasoning sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Browning the Chicken (Optional)
Browning the chicken creates a delicious depth of flavor that will infuse your gravy:

• Stovetop: Heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes. This gives the chicken a crispy texture and flavor.
• Roasting (Whole Chicken): If you’re roasting a whole chicken, preheat the oven to 375°F and roast it for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size. Roasting gives it a crispy outer layer and juicy interior.

Step 3: Slow Cooker Prep (If Applicable)
For slow cooker prep, there’s no need to brown the chicken beforehand, but you can for extra flavor:

• Slow Cooker: Season your chicken and place it directly into the slow cooker. Add your broth, cover, and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.

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Gravy Preparation Tips

Tip 1: Making Smooth, Lump-Free Gravy
The key to lump-free gravy is patience and technique. Here’s how you can achieve a silky-smooth gravy every time:

• Start with a Roux: A roux is a mixture of fat (butter) and flour. Melt butter in a pan, then add the flour. Stir constantly until it becomes golden brown. This is your thickening base.
• Gradually incorporate: the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir until the mixture thickens to your preference.

Tip 2: The Science of Gravy with Flour or Cornstarch
Flour and cornstarch both work as thickeners, but they behave differently:

• Flour: It thickens slowly and provides a creamy, rich texture. It’s perfect for traditional gravies.
• Cornstarch: It thickens quickly and creates a glossy finish. Use cornstarch if you’re in a hurry or prefer a lighter gravy.

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Methods for Making Chicken and Gravy

Ready to cook? Whether you’re going stovetop or slow cooker, there are different methods to get that perfectly cooked chicken and delicious gravy.

Stovetop Chicken and Gravy

• Step 1: After browning the chicken, remove it from the pan.
• Step 2: Add more butter or oil, then whisk in flour to create your roux.
• Step 3: Slowly add your chicken broth while whisking, ensuring no lumps form.Allow the gravy to simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Step 4: Return the chicken to the pan, and simmer everything together for about 20 minutes. Adjust thickness with extra broth if necessary.

Tip for Thickness: If you like your gravy thicker, let it simmer longer.To achieve a thinner consistency, just add more broth.

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Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

• Step 1: Season your chicken and place it in the slow cooker.
• Step 2: Pour in the broth and add your seasonings.
• Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.The chicken should be soft and easily separate from the bone.
• Step 4: Once cooked, make your gravy by removing some broth from the slow cooker, then thickening it on the stovetop with a roux.

Slow Cooker Tip: If you’re short on time, skip the roux and simply use cornstarch to thicken the gravy in the slow cooker.

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Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with Minimal Prep

For those who are short on time but still want a comforting meal, the crockpot “dump and go” method is a life-saver:

• Step 1: Toss chicken breasts or thighs, broth, and seasonings directly into the crockpot.
• Step 2: Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours.
• Step 3: Once cooked, use a spoon to shred the chicken and make gravy by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken.

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Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Gravy

Now that your chicken and gravy are ready, it’s time to serve it up! What should you pair with this comforting dish? Here are some delicious side dish ideas to take your meal to the next level.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken and Gravy

• Smothered Broccoli: Steamed broccoli, topped with melted cheese and your favorite seasonings.
• The Best Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and almonds for a crunchy, savory bite.
• Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: Perfectly roasted asparagus, topped with parmesan cheese for an added umami flavor.
• Zucchini, Squash & Corn Casserole: A hearty, comforting side that pairs perfectly with the richness of the gravy.

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Serving Tips

• Rice, Mashed Potatoes, or Pasta: The classic sides for chicken and gravy. Whether you serve it over rice for a lighter option or mashed potatoes for a creamy indulgence, your gravy will shine.
• Gravy as a Topping for Other Proteins: Don’t limit your gravy to chicken – it’s perfect over turkey, pork, or even roasted beef.

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Tips and Troubleshooting

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Gravy

• Adjusting Gravy Consistency
  Whether you like your gravy thick or thin, it’s all about balance. If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour. For a thinner gravy, simply incorporate more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Making Your Gravy Richer or Lighter
  Want a richer, velvety gravy? Add a splash of heavy cream or a knob of butter. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, swap the cream for milk or opt for a broth-based gravy with less fat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does “Everything is Chicken but the Gravy” Mean?
This saying plays on the idea that chicken can be versatile, but it’s the gravy that truly elevates the dish to something special. It’s all about the gravy – without it, the chicken’s just not the same!

What Exactly is Chicken Gravy?
Chicken gravy is a savory sauce made from the drippings of cooked chicken, thickened with flour or cornstarch, and often flavored with broth, seasonings, and herbs.

How Can I Enhance the Flavor of My Gravy?
Add depth to your gravy with seasonings like garlic, onion powder, thyme, or even a dash of soy sauce for extra umami. A touch of Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs can make all the difference too.

Is Rice and Gravy a Good Combo?
Absolutely! The richness of the gravy pairs perfectly with the neutral flavor of rice, making it a classic comfort food combo. Pour that savory goodness right over the rice for a mouthwatering meal.

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FAQs and Troubleshooting for Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

Slow Cooker Specific Questions

• How long do you cook chicken in a slow cooker for tender, juicy results?
  The magic number for slow-cooked chicken is about 6 to 8 hours on low. This slow cooking time allows the chicken to become perfectly tender and easy to shred, making your easy chicken and gravy recipe even more irresistible. If you’re in a rush, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but the low and slow method is always the best for flavor and tenderness!
• What are the best chicken cuts for the slow cooker?
  For the most flavorful and tender smothered chicken and gravy, go with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These cuts hold up beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing all the savory goodness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts with gravy work great too, though they’ll need a little extra care to avoid drying out.
• How do you prevent the gravy from separating?
  To keep your chicken gravy recipe smooth and cohesive, make sure you’re using the right ratio of broth and thickening agent (like flour or cornstarch). Adding a little chicken gravy packet mix can help boost consistency and prevent separation. Also, stir the gravy halfway through the cooking process to ensure it stays nice and thick.

Reheating and Storing Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

• What’s the best way to store slow-cooked chicken and gravy?
  Once your delicious easy chicken and gravy recipe is ready, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or for longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure you separate the chicken from the gravy if you’re freezing – that way, both will reheat beautifully.
• How do you reheat chicken and gravy without losing flavor or texture?
  Reheating is simple, but here’s a pro tip: slowly reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to maintain the flavors and keep the chicken nice and tender. If you’re reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth to your gravy to restore the creamy consistency. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through to prevent the gravy from separating.

Conclusion

Making chicken and gravy is a breeze, whether you’re using a slow cooker, stovetop, or even a chicken gravy packet for a shortcut! This dish is super versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite sides and variations – from easy chicken rice and gravy recipes to boneless chicken breast with gravy recipes. Don’t forget to share your own delicious twists with family and friends, and who knows – your version might just become their new favorite!

For more tips on cooking chicken, visit Recipe Wealthy .

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