If you’re yearning for a comforting dish that tastes like a warm embrace, look no further than our *Homestyle Chicken and Gravy*. This dish offers tender chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a family favorite that’s elegant enough for company yet easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: The ingredients are basic yet combine to deliver a gourmet taste.
- Versatility: Perfect for Sunday dinner but also a quick weeknight meal.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that adults and kids alike will enjoy, adding warmth to any dining table.
- Rich Flavor: A depth of flavor that feels like a cozy hug, thanks to the creamy, fragrant gravy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor. With just a handful of items, you have everything you need to create a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
- Chicken Breasts: Using split large or medium/small breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Olive Oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden brown while adding a fruity undertone.
- Chicken Base: Provides a concentrated umami kick, enhancing the overall depth of the gravy.
- All Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the gravy to achieve that silky texture we love.
- Heavy Cream (Optional): Adds a luxurious creaminess, though the gravy can stand proudly without it.
Variations
This recipe is your canvas for creativity! Feel free to tweak the *Homestyle Chicken and Gravy* to make it your own, whether you’re accommodating dietary preferences or just looking to experiment with flavors.
- Spicy Chicken and Gravy: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken for an earthy twist that’s divine.
- Herb Delight: Throw in a sprig of rosemary or some thyme to elevate the dish’s aromatic quotient.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Season and Sear
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts lightly with kosher salt and black pepper. In a spacious skillet, heat some olive oil on medium and sear the chicken. This step will take about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown. Searing locks in juices and develops flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Create the Gravy
Once the chicken is gloriously golden, set it aside. Lower the skillet heat and melt butter alongside chicken base until you smell that wonderful aroma. Stir in the flour, onion powder, and garlic powder to create a roux. It’ll need about a minute to cook the raw flour taste away. Slowly whisk in chicken stock and water, ensuring no lumps form. A sprinkle of optional heavy cream will give it a velvety sheen. Let it simmer to reach your preferred consistency.
Pro Tips for Making Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Pro Tips for Making Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
- Perfect Roux Making: Stir constantly when cooking the flour for the roux to avoid lumps and achieve that perfect base for the gravy.
- Thickening Technique: If your gravy ends up too thin, a little cornstarch slurry can work wonders without altering the taste.
- Heat Control: Lower the heat while making the gravy to prevent scorching and maintain a creamy texture.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjusting the gravy consistency is key; too thick? More liquid! Too thin? A bit more simmering should do.
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Garnishes
Garnish your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances out the dish’s richness.
Side Dishes
Pair the chicken and gravy with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. They provide the perfect base to soak up all that delicious gravy. Add some green vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a creative touch, serve your chicken and gravy in individual ramekins on a platter surrounded by toasted garlic bread slices. It gives an appetizing appeal and makes for an Instagram-worthy presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, so these leftovers taste just as good, if not better!
Freezing
To freeze, let the chicken and gravy cool completely before transferring them into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to two months, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently over the stove on low heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to return it to its original creamy consistency.
FAQs
-
Can I make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy using boneless thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will be juicier and add a slightly different flavor profile, but they work seamlessly in this recipe.
-
What should I do if my gravy turns out too salty?
If it’s too salty, add half a cup of water and simmer gently. You can thicken it again if necessary with a cornstarch slurry.
-
Is heavy cream necessary for this gravy?
No, heavy cream is optional. It adds richness but is not essential for producing a great gravy.
-
Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, feel free to use vegetable broth as a substitute. It alters the flavor slightly but keeps the dish delicious.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe for Homestyle Chicken and Gravy finds a cherished place in your meal rotation. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, offering comfort and flavor in every forkful. Try it soon, and let the deliciousness wrap you and your loved ones in warmth and satisfaction!
Print
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting homestyle chicken and gravy recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This classic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served over creamy mashed potatoes and complemented with side vegetables like peas or garlic bread.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, split lengthwise into thinner breasts, or 4 medium/small chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Gravy
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (recommend Better Than Bouillon)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Season the chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook about 5 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the roux: Lower heat to medium-low. Add butter and chicken base to the skillet, stirring until melted and blended.
- Add flour mixture: Sprinkle the prepared flour mixture into the skillet and stir to make a roux. Cook and stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Make the gravy: Gradually pour in chicken stock, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add water and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened to desired consistency.
- Finish the gravy: If using, stir in heavy cream. Shred the chicken if desired and return it to the skillet, stirring to coat with gravy. Let simmer a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice with side vegetables like peas or garlic bread.
Notes
- Too thick? Add a bit more chicken stock or water and simmer until desired consistency is reached.
- Too thin? Continue simmering until thickened. For quicker thickening, mix 2 teaspoons corn starch with 3 teaspoons water, then whisk into the gravy.
- Too salty? Dilute with additional water and simmer briefly. Adjust seasonings by adding more onion and garlic powder or herbs.
- For extra flavor, consider adding sage or poultry seasoning to the gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate with chicken and gravy
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
