Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts, smothered in rich, creamy gravy, make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh vegetables, this dish is a guaranteed family favorite.

Ingredients

To create this delicious meal, you’ll need simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen:

• 2 large chicken breasts, split lengthwise, or 4 medium/small chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp chicken base (like Better Than Bouillon)
• 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Instant Pot mashed potatoes for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set this mixture aside for later use.

2. Cook the Chicken Breasts
Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside.

3. Create the Roux
Lower the heat to medium-low and melt butter in the skillet. Add the chicken base, stirring until it dissolves. Gradually sprinkle in the flour mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Make the Gravy
Slowly pour in the chicken stock while scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Add water and whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. For an extra creamy texture, stir in heavy cream.

5. Combine Chicken with Gravy
Shred the cooked chicken (if desired) and return it to the skillet along with any collected juices. Let it simmer in the gravy for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the chicken and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice for a classic pairing.
• Add steamed vegetables like green beans, peas, or broccoli for a balanced and colorful meal.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy.
• For a Southern twist, serve over freshly baked biscuits or cornbread.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the gravy. Alternatively, use a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Pro Tips:

• If freezing, avoid adding heavy cream to the gravy before storing. Instead, stir in the cream after reheating to preserve its texture and flavor.
• Double the recipe to enjoy leftovers as an easy meal prep option throughout the week!

Variations

1. Herbed Chicken and Gravy: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the gravy for a fragrant twist. Sprinkle extra herbs on top before serving for added flavor and color.
2. Mushroom Chicken and Gravy: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the butter before making the roux. The mushrooms add an earthy depth to the dish.
3. Spicy Chicken and Gravy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a hint of heat.
4. Garlic-Lover’s Version: Increase the garlic powder or add minced fresh garlic to the butter for a rich, garlicky flavor.
5. Cheesy Chicken and Gravy: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the gravy for a creamy, cheesy variation.
6. Cajun Chicken and Gravy: Swap out the seasonings for Cajun seasoning or Creole spice for a zesty, Southern-inspired flavor.
7. Vegetable-Loaded Gravy: Add finely diced carrots, celery, or peas to the gravy for a nutrient boost and extra texture.
8. Creamy Mustard Gravy: Whisk in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a splash of white wine for a tangy, sophisticated twist.
9. Slow Cooker Variation: Prepare the chicken and gravy in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach. Sear the chicken first, then cook everything on low for 4–6 hours.
10. Turkey or Pork Swap: Replace the chicken with turkey breast or pork chops for a different protein while keeping the same rich gravy base.

Feel free to customize based on your family’s preferences or seasonal ingredients for endless delicious possibilities!

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs will work perfectly. You may need to adjust the cooking time, as boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in chicken.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Chicken thighs are flavorful and will work great in this recipe. They may require a slightly longer cooking time depending on their size.
3. Can I skip the heavy cream in the gravy?
   Yes, you can skip the heavy cream if you prefer a lighter gravy. The gravy will still be rich and delicious without it.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Can I use a different type of stock for the gravy?
   While chicken stock is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with vegetable stock or even beef stock if you prefer a different flavor.
6. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
7. Can I freeze this chicken and gravy recipe?
   You can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy for up to 3 months. However, the gravy may change in texture once thawed, so it’s best to reheat it slowly and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. What can I serve this chicken and gravy with?
   This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side salad.
9. Is there a substitute for chicken base?
   Yes, you can use chicken bouillon cubes or powder as a substitute for chicken base. Just dissolve it in a little warm water before adding it to the pan.
10. Can I use a different type of flour for the roux?
    While all-purpose flour is the best choice for the roux, you can try using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening alternative if needed.

This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy, flavorful gravy and tender chicken, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Experiment with variations to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy the hearty goodness of this timeless favorite!

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