Easy Chicken and Gravy

Easy Chicken and Gravy is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich, velvety gravy that’s just perfect for spooning over rice, potatoes, or even biscuits. With its savory aromas wafting through your kitchen, this dish is bound to evoke memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. What’s even better is that this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also promises a depth of flavor that rivals your favorite diner meal!

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Easy Chicken and Gravy

I remember the first time I made this recipe for a family dinner. It was one of those rainy Sundays where everyone craved something warm and filling. I decided to whip up Easy Chicken and Gravy, and it quickly became a staple in our household. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken cooked to juicy perfection with a rich gravy had everyone asking for seconds. Now, let me share this favorite with you so you can create your own comforting moment at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: You can whip this meal up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!
  • Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices and creamy gravy creates a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: Served over fluffy rice or mashed potatoes, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
  • Flexible Serving: Ideal for family meals or casual gatherings; it works great for lunch or dinner!
  • Diet-Friendly Options: Swap out the heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free version for lighter alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These cook quickly and remain juicy. You can use larger breasts sliced in half.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky undertone to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a rich garlic flavor without the chopping!
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the savory notes of the gravy.
  • ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken and thickening the gravy.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides a healthy fat for searing the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives the gravy a rich, buttery flavor.
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced: Sweetens the gravy as it caramelizes.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Fresh garlic ups the flavor ante in the gravy.
  • 2 tablespoons (62.5 g) all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
  • 2 cups (16 ounces) chicken broth: This is the flavor powerhouse for your gravy.
  • ½ cup (119 g) heavy cream, or milk: Adds creaminess; use milk for a lighter touch.
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Imparts a depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Gravy

  1. Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to about ½ to ¾ inch thickness or slice large breasts in half horizontally for more even cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides of the chicken.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Pour flour into a shallow bowl and lightly coat each piece of chicken, shaking off any excess flour.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet; merely transfer it to a plate.
  5. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced onions and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until they soften and become lightly golden.
  6. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the additional 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to become lightly golden.
  8. Incorporate Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously whisking to maintain a smooth gravy. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Add Cream: Stir in your choice of heavy cream or milk along with Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
  10. Return Chicken: Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, spoon some gravy over the top, and reduce the heat to low.
  11. Simmer: Cover and let it simmer for 5 to 8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F and the gravy is thickened to your liking.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a colorful touch!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the chicken and gravy cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, bring it to a simmer on the stove over low heat; you may need to add a splash of water or additional broth to refresh the gravy’s consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Always pound your chicken to an even thickness to avoid overcooking.
  • Don’t skip on seasoning the flour; it layers flavor beautifully.
  • Watch the onions closely to get them just right; nobody wants burnt onion bits.
  • Make sure to whisk continuously when adding broth to avoid lumps.
  • For a fun twist, consider adding mushrooms alongside the onions for a rich earthiness.
  • This dish also works great in the slow cooker; just sear the chicken first for added flavor!

There’s something truly magical about Easy Chicken and Gravy that brings warmth to every table. It’s not just about the tender chicken or the creamy gravy, but the memories it can create around the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or just for yourself, don’t hesitate to jump in and get creative with your own versions of this classic. Who knows, you might just discover your own twist that becomes a family favorite! Grab your ingredients, give it a whirl, and enjoy every bite.

Easy Chicken and Gravy

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before starting. You can do this in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed chicken in cold water for a quicker method. Just remember that cooking times may increase slightly.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or over buttered biscuits. You can also serve it alongside roasted veggies for a balanced meal.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

If you love a thicker gravy, you can let it simmer a bit longer to reduce it. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, add it to the gravy, and stir constantly until thickened.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and gravy earlier in the day and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This is a great way to save time, especially for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests!

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Easy-Chicken-and-Gravy-Recipe

Easy Chicken and Gravy

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  • Author: Peter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Easy Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in savory seasonings and smothered in a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for a quick dinner, it brings comfort and flavor to your table with simple preparations and ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (16 ounces) chicken broth
  • ½ cup (119 g) heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pound thick chicken breasts to ½ to ¾ inch thickness, or slice large ones in half horizontally for even cooking.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this point. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Notes

Pounding the chicken helps ensure even cooking for tender results.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs to the gravy for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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