Get ready to fall in love with this comforting, classic dish: Homestyle Chicken and Gravy. A meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, it’s perfect for weeknights when you crave something hearty yet uncomplicated. Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, velvety gravy — it’s a recipe that guarantees satisfaction with every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: It’s like a warm hug served on a plate, evoking the hominess of Sunday dinners.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for any day of the week.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to make it truly yours.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good chicken and gravy meal — it’s bound to be a family favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy recipe shines due to its simplicity. The ingredients are straightforward, each holding a key role in building the dish’s layers of flavor and texture that will keep you coming back for seconds.
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for larger breasts for more meat or smaller ones for quicker cooking.
- Olive Oil: Adds a delicate flavor while preventing the chicken from sticking to the pan.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Butter: Provides richness, making the gravy delectably silky.
- Chicken Base: Intensifies the savory taste, with Better Than Bouillon recommended for best results.
- All Purpose Flour: Thickens the gravy, giving it that perfect consistency.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Bring aromatic depth and warmth.
- Chicken Stock: Forms the base of the gravy, infusing every bite with flavor.
- Heavy Cream (optional): Adds a hint of decadence for an even richer gravy.
Variations
Feel free to tweak this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy recipe to suit your palate or dietary requirements. Its forgiving nature allows for easy swaps and changes to fit your lifestyle perfectly!
- Add Vegetables: Throw in some mushrooms or carrots as you cook the chicken for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice It Up: A dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can give the gravy a nice kick.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free flour alternatives to make this dish gluten-friendly.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts if needed, then lightly season them with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken, about 5 minutes per side, until perfectly tender and cooked through.
Step 2: Craft the Gravy
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, melt butter with the chicken base, then stir in your flour mixture to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and water, ensuring no lumps remain, and let it simmer to thicken. Add optional heavy cream for extra richness.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
If desired, shred the chicken and return it to the gravy. Let it all simmer for a few minutes so flavors meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice for the ultimate homestyle experience.
Pro Tips for Making Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
- Perfect Roux: Keep stirring when making the roux to avoid burning and to ensure a silky texture.
- Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Add Liquids Gradually: Pour the chicken stock slowly into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Consistent Slices: When slicing chicken breasts, keep them uniform for even cooking.
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor profile with fresh parsley or chives. A sprinkling of herbs adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, bread stuffing, or even fluffy white rice. Add a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual portions in ramekins for a more elegant touch, or let guests ladle their own portions from a beautiful serving dish for a cozy family style dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the chicken and gravy together for easier reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is too thick after cooling, add a splash of water or chicken stock to thin it out.
FAQs
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Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare both the chicken and the gravy ahead of time, then reheat them together when ready to serve. It’s great for meal prep and busy nights!
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What can I do if my gravy is too salty?
If the gravy is too salty, just add a bit of water or unsalted chicken stock to dilute the saltiness without compromising flavor.
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Is there a dairy-free option available?
Absolutely! You can skip the heavy cream or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep the gravy taste rich and smooth.
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What if I don’t have chicken base?
You can substitute chicken bouillon cubes or granules; just ensure you adjust the salt level accordingly to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
With this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy recipe in your culinary repertoire, you’re set to bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table in no time. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying choice that will likely become a staple in your meal rotation. Dive in, and enjoy the magic of homestyle cooking!
