Chicken Gravy Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Gravy Recipe: Chicken gravy is a comfort food classic that never fails to impress. Whether poured over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice, its rich and creamy flavor is irresistible.

Making chicken gravy at home might seem daunting, but with this detailed guide, you’ll master it in no time.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a mouthwatering chicken gravy that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Chicken Gravy

To prepare the perfect chicken gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Basic Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Flavor Enhancement:

• ½ cup heavy cream (for richness)
• 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for umami)

These simple ingredients come together to form a flavorful and smooth gravy.

Preparation Before Cooking

Before diving into the cooking process, a little prep work goes a long way:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If you’re using fresh chicken pieces, clean and pat them dry with a paper towel. For shredded chicken, cook it in advance or use leftover chicken.
2. Gather Tools: You’ll need a saucepan, whisk, spatula, and measuring cups/spoons for precision.
3. Organize Ingredients: Chop onions, mince garlic, and measure out the flour and butter. Having everything prepped ensures a seamless cooking process.

Making the Base

The base is the heart of your chicken gravy. Here’s how to create a flavorful start:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until golden brown and fragrant.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously to form a smooth paste, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Cooking the Chicken

If you’re using fresh chicken in your gravy, cooking it properly is crucial:

1. Tenderize the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them in a separate skillet until golden brown. Set aside to be added later.
2. Shred or Cube: Once cooked, shred or cube the chicken based on your preference.

Combining the Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring the flavors together:

1. Add Chicken Stock: Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking to avoid lumps. The roux will start to dissolve, creating a smooth liquid base.
2. Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or paprika. Stir to combine.

Thickening the Gravy

Achieving the perfect consistency is essential for great gravy:

1. Thicken Without Lumps: Allow the gravy to simmer gently. If it’s too thin, mix a tablespoon of flour with water to make a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the gravy.
2. Check Consistency: The gravy should coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, add more chicken stock to thin it out.

Simmering for Perfection

Simmering is the secret to unlocking the full depth of flavor in your chicken gravy. Here’s how to perfect this step:

1. Simmer Slowly: Once all the ingredients are combined, reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for about 10–15 minutes. This helps meld the flavors and thicken the gravy naturally.
2. Stir Frequently: Stir the gravy every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
3. Taste and Adjust: During the simmering process, taste your gravy. If it feels like it’s missing something, add a dash of salt, a pinch of pepper, or even a splash of soy sauce for extra umami. Adjust to suit your taste preferences.

Final Touches

Adding a little extra care at the end can elevate your gravy to gourmet status:

1. Richness with Cream: If you prefer a creamy texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream. This adds a velvety richness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.
2. Garnish for Visual Appeal: Top the gravy with fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of paprika. It not only enhances the flavor but also gives your dish a professional, eye-catching presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some classic serving ideas:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Pour the gravy generously over fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
2. Biscuits: Drizzle chicken gravy over warm, flaky biscuits for a Southern-style treat.
3. Rice or Pasta: Ladle the gravy over steamed rice or pasta for a hearty, satisfying meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Use it as a sauce for roasted veggies like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to add a burst of flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra gravy, don’t worry—it stores beautifully:

1. Refrigeration: Place the leftover gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the gravy in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 3 months this way.
3. Reheating: To reheat, warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to restore its original consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Stick to the recommended cooking times to maintain tender, juicy pieces.
2. Skipping the Roux: The roux is essential for thickening the gravy and developing its flavor. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re short on time.
3. Using Low-Quality Stock: The stock is the backbone of your gravy. Opt for high-quality chicken stock or make your own for the best results.

Variations of Chicken Gravy

Why stick to one style when you can experiment? Here are some fun variations:

1. Spicy Chicken Gravy: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with rice or cornbread.
2. Country-Style Chicken Gravy: Mix in crumbled sausage or bacon for a hearty, rustic flavor.
3. Herb-Infused Gravy: Use fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme to add a fragrant twist to your classic chicken gravy.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter version of chicken gravy, here are some tips:

1. Use Low-Fat Ingredients: Substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with skim milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
3. Low-Sodium Stock: Use low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the salt content without compromising on flavor.

FAQs about Chicken Gravy Recipe

What ingredients do I need for chicken gravy?

To make chicken gravy, you’ll need basic ingredients like chicken drippings, flour, chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

How do I make chicken gravy from scratch?

Start by melting butter in a pan, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens, and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Serve warm for the best taste.

Can I make chicken gravy without drippings?

Yes! You can substitute chicken broth or bouillon for drippings. Simply follow the same steps to create a flavorful gravy using store-bought broth.

What dishes pair well with chicken gravy?

Chicken gravy is versatile and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, biscuits, rice, or even fries. Its rich flavor enhances any hearty meal.

How do I store leftover chicken gravy?

Store leftover chicken gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

Can chicken gravy be frozen?

Yes, chicken gravy can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to use.

Conclusion

Making chicken gravy from scratch may seem like a challenge, but with this guide, you’re well on your way to mastering it. By following each step carefully, you’ll create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’ll never go back to store-bought gravy again!