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If you’ve ever yearned for that comforting, soul-soothing dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken nestled in a rich, creamy gravy that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that delivers classic, hearty goodness with every bite. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish can become your new go-to for cozy evenings and family dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe has a superstar role, contributing essential taste, texture, and aroma to create a dish that feels both familiar and indulgent. The simplicity of the list is a secret in itself — these basics build layers of deep flavor and velvety smoothness you’ll want again and again.
- 2 large chicken breasts: Split lengthwise for even cooking and tender results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness when cooking the chicken.
- Kosher salt & black pepper: The quintessential seasoning duo to enhance every flavor.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates a luscious base for the gravy with a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (Better Than Bouillon recommended): Intensifies the chicken flavor in the gravy like no ordinary stock.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect creamy consistency.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory sweetness without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For that warm, aromatic depth treasured in classic gravies.
- 2 cups chicken stock: The heart of the gravy, infusing moisture and flavor.
- ½ cup water: Helps adjust the gravy’s texture to your liking.
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional): For a decadently rich, silky finish that elevates every spoonful.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture
Start by mixing the flour with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend will soon transform into a fragrant roux, the backbone for that smooth gravy texture you’re craving.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts lightly with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken about 5 minutes per side until perfectly cooked through with a juicy interior. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest — this pause ensures maximum moisture retention.
Step 3: Build the Gravy Base
Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter along with the chicken base. Stir these together until melted and aromatic, setting the stage for a deeply flavorful sauce that tastes like homemade comfort in a pan.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour mixture into the skillet and keep stirring continuously. This process cooks out the raw flour taste while developing a nutty aroma and rich color, the key signs your gravy is coming alive.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Thicken
Slowly pour in chicken stock while scraping up all those flavorful browned bits clinging to the pan’s bottom — they add incredible depth. Then stir in the water and whisk until everything is smooth and lump-free. Let the gravy gently simmer until it thickens to your preferred creamy consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Chicken
For an extra touch of decadence, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Shred the cooked chicken or leave whole if you prefer, then nestle it back into the warm gravy and let everything mingle for a few minutes. This step guarantees every mouthful is tender, juicy, and drenched in irresistible flavor.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning as you like — a pinch more salt or dash of pepper can make all the difference. Serve your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe piping hot over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or your favorite sides for a meal that feels like home on a plate.
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the hearty richness of the gravy. You can also add a side of sautéed mushrooms on top, enhancing earthiness without overpowering your dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up every luscious drop of gravy. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or crisp roasted carrots provide balance and compliment the creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining or want to impress, consider serving the chicken and gravy over a freshly baked biscuit or a buttery toast slice for an easy, rustic twist. Alternatively, hollow out a bread bowl and fill it with the gravy and chicken for an adorable and edible serving vessel that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, place your leftover Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days — perfect for quick reheats or speedy lunches during busy weeks.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe can last up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option whenever you need a comforting meal in a pinch.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to keep the chicken tender and juicy. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat and tend to stay juicier; just be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly to make sure they’re cooked through to a safe temperature.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
The heavy cream is optional but highly recommended for a richer, silkier gravy. If you prefer a lighter version, simply skip it and enjoy the gravy as is—it will still be flavorful and comforting.
What can I substitute for chicken base?
If you don’t have chicken base, you can use chicken bouillon cubes or concentrate, or even a good quality chicken broth. Just be mindful of salt levels and adjust seasoning as needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative such as olive oil or vegan margarine, and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute instead of heavy cream. The technique remains the same, and the flavor will still delight your taste buds.
How do I get a lump-free gravy?
Whisk the flour mixture into the melted butter and chicken base constantly before adding the liquids. When pouring in the stock and water, add slowly while whisking vigorously to ensure a smooth, silky gravy without lumps.
Final Thoughts
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is nothing short of a love letter to classic comfort food, bringing a warm, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly rewarding. I encourage you to try it out, invite your loved ones, and savor the joy that comes from sharing a dish this delicious and heartfelt. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a treasured family favorite.
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Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy recipe features tender pan-cooked chicken breasts served with a rich, creamy homemade gravy. Made with simple pantry staples and cooked in a skillet, it’s a comforting classic perfect for a hearty family meal. The gravy is crafted with a flavorful roux, chicken stock, and optional heavy cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
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
Gravy
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (Better Than Bouillon recommended)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside for later use in the gravy roux.
- Cook the chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are thoroughly cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Melt butter and add chicken base: Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add butter and chicken base, stirring continuously until both are melted and fully combined, creating a flavorful base for the gravy.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the prepared flour mixture over the melted butter and chicken base. Stir constantly to form a roux, cooking it for 30 seconds to 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and thicken gravy: Gradually pour in the chicken stock while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Add the water and whisk continuously to ensure the gravy is smooth without lumps. Let it simmer gently until thickened to your preference.
- Finish the gravy: Stir in the heavy cream if using, for a richer gravy. Shred the cooked chicken or leave it whole, then return it to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Simmer together for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Season and serve: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes or rice. Optionally, serve with peas and garlic bread for a complete homestyle meal.
Notes
- Using chicken base adds concentrated flavor, but you can substitute with chicken bouillon or homemade stock.
- Heavy cream in the gravy is optional but adds a lovely richness.
- For extra crispy chicken, you can pound breasts thinner before cooking.
- Leftover gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a comforting plate.
