This Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, creamy gravy that pairs perfectly with chicken. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or even entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without the wait.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavorful dish that feels special.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve this chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal that suits your taste.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in one skillet.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this tasty chicken dish, making it great for families.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment to help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop flavor as the chicken browns.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps combine the flour and butter smoothly, preventing lumps in your gravy.
Ingredients
This chicken and gravy recipe uses minimal ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make!
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts
Seasonings
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
Cooking Essentials
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
Liquid Base
- 2 cups chicken broth
Additional Flavorings
- 1/2 tsp each of salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme
- 1 tsp each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder
How to Make Easy Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner.
- Season the chicken with some salt, pepper, and garlic powder (exact measurements are not necessary).
Step 2: Make the Gravy Base
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter.
- Once melted, add 3 tbsp of flour and stir continuously until well combined.
- Let cook for a few minutes while still stirring to develop flavor.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and stir well.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Stir again until everything is well mixed. When it starts bubbling, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Ensure the chicken is covered in gravy.
- Cover with a lid and turn down the heat to medium-low.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 5: Serve It Up!
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish! Enjoy! Let me know if you try it out.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Gravy
Serving Easy Chicken and Gravy is simple and versatile. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings, making it perfect for any dinner table.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes create a rich base that soaks up the delicious gravy. This classic combination makes for a comforting meal.
With Rice
- Serve the chicken and gravy over white or brown rice for a filling option. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, enhancing every bite.
On a Bed of Noodles
- Egg noodles or pasta can be a delightful alternative. The gravy clings to the noodles, making each serving hearty and satisfying.
Accompanied by Biscuits
- Fluffy biscuits on the side can be used to scoop up the gravy, adding texture and flavor to your meal.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Adding steamed broccoli or green beans brings freshness to your plate. The veggies balance the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy.
Served in a Bowl
- For a cozy presentation, serve the chicken and gravy in bowls with fresh herbs sprinkled on top. It’s perfect for those chilly nights!
How to Perfect Easy Chicken and Gravy
Perfecting Easy Chicken and Gravy is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and thyme can elevate the flavor profile of your gravy significantly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before adding the chicken; adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Ensure your chicken reaches 165 degrees but avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
- Thicken to preference: If you prefer thicker gravy, let it simmer longer before adding the chicken.
- Shredding technique: Use two forks to shred the chicken easily after cooking; this creates a nice texture for serving.
- Garnish wisely: Fresh parsley or chives can add color and freshness when sprinkled just before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken and Gravy
Pairing sides with Easy Chicken and Gravy enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra gravy while adding a crunchy element.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness that complements savory flavors well.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes – A twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering sweetness that balances out savory notes.
- Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of hearty chicken.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide great texture alongside creamy gravy.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with leftovers from your Easy Chicken and Gravy for an easy second meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A nutty quinoa salad adds healthy grains while providing a different texture contrast to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Chicken and Gravy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping seasoning: Proper seasoning is essential for flavor. Don’t skip the salt and spices; they elevate the dish.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness at 12 minutes.
- Using cold broth: Cold broth can affect the consistency of your gravy. Always use room temperature or warm broth for better results.
- Not stirring enough: Stirring helps prevent lumps in your gravy. Make sure to stir continuously when adding flour and broth.
- Ignoring internal temperature: It’s crucial to check that chicken reaches 165 degrees internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The dish will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe special?
This recipe stands out due to its minimal ingredients and quick preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.
What sides pair well with Easy Chicken and Gravy?
Mashed potatoes are classic, but consider serving with rice or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I customize the seasonings in this Easy Chicken and Gravy?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste or add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Easy Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that’s quick to prepare yet rich in flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Try it out today, and enjoy this comforting meal that brings joy to any dinner table!
Easy Chicken and Gravy
Easy Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, flavorful gravy, this recipe ensures you can serve up satisfaction without spending hours in the kitchen. Just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s an effortless way to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a delightful and complete meal everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Paprika
- Onion powder
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until combined and let cook for a few minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth and seasonings while stirring. Once bubbling, add the seasoned chicken.
- Cover and cook on medium-low for 12-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred or chop the chicken and serve over your favorite side dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
