When it comes to comfort food, the classic chicken and gravy never disappoints. It’s a dish that brings a smile, warms the heart, and fills the belly—all the hallmarks of a meal worth sharing. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe, ensuring that each bite is as flavorful as it is satisfying. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on what might just be the best chicken and gravy recipe you’ve ever tried!
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of our chicken and gravy recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Chicken thighs | 8 pieces |
Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
Chicken broth | 2 cups |
Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
Fresh thyme | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Fact: Did you know that thyme not only adds flavor but also aids digestion and helps in reducing blood pressure?
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
A good seasoning makes all the difference—don’t skimp on the salt and pepper!
Step 2 – Brown the Chicken
- Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic; cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stir to coat and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, then return the chicken to the skillet.
Let the chicken simmer in the gravy for added juiciness.
Step 4 – Simmer and Serve
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
- Let the chicken cook through and the flavors meld, about 25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Additional Tips
- If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
Pairing Suggestions
A great side dish can turn this meal from satisfying to extraordinary. Consider these pairings:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Buttery biscuits
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 475 kcal |
Protein | 35g |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Fat | 34g |
Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices.
Dietary Information
This chicken and gravy recipe is naturally gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
FAQs about Chicken and Gravy Recipe
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken and gravy?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely, just keep an eye on the cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out.
How can I thicken the gravy without flour?
For a gluten-free option, cornstarch is an excellent substitute. Mix it with water and add it to the gravy, allowing it to thicken.
What herbs complement chicken and gravy?
Rosemary and sage are fantastic additions that enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the chicken, place everything in the slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours.
Is chicken and gravy recipe suitable for freezing?
The gravy might separate slightly when thawed, but it can be reconstituted over low heat with good results.
Are there any quick fixes if my gravy is too runny?
A quick mix of cornstarch and water added to the gravy will thicken it right up without altering the flavor much.
Conclusion
This chicken and gravy recipe is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a skillet, ready to be savored. With every forkful, you’ll taste the care, the richness, and the depth of flavor that makes this dish a true home favorite.
Feel free to leave your comments, questions, or your own tips below! Let’s share the love for a good chicken and gravy!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Tenderloin Steak Recipe
- Alice Springs Chicken Recipe
- Carne de Res Recipe
- Pan Roast Recipe
- Thick Asians Recipe
- Milanesa de Pollo Recipe
Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken thighs
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 1 medium Onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- A good seasoning makes all the difference—don’t skimp on the salt and pepper!
Step 2 – Brown the Chicken
- Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- See also Chicken Parm Sandwich Recipe
Step 3 – Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic; cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stir to coat and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, then return the chicken to the skillet.
- Let the chicken simmer in the gravy for added juiciness.
Step 4 – Simmer and Serve
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
- Let the chicken cook through and the flavors meld, about 25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
- If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
Leave a Reply