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Chicken and gravy is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or fresh biscuits, this dish is a surefire way to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare the perfect Chicken and Gravy Recipe at home.

What is Chicken and Gravy?

Chicken and gravy is a classic dish featuring tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish is beloved for its simplicity and versatility, making it a staple in many households. Whether you prefer to make your gravy from scratch or use a convenient pre-made option, the result is always a hearty and satisfying meal.

Gravy is traditionally made by using the drippings from cooked chicken, which are then thickened with flour or cornstarch. However, for a quicker version, you can use gravy packets combined with chicken broth and seasonings. Learn how to make perfect gravy for a truly homemade touch.

Why Chicken and Gravy is a Comfort Food Favorite

There’s something deeply satisfying about chicken and gravy. The rich, velvety gravy envelops tender, juicy chicken, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s a meal that brings families together around the dinner table, evoking memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

Chicken and gravy is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over a variety of bases, from mashed potatoes and rice to biscuits and egg noodles. This versatility, combined with its budget-friendly ingredients, makes it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. For more inspiration, explore easy stovetop chicken recipes.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy

To create a delicious chicken and gravy dish, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor to the gravy.
Chicken Gravy Packets: A quick and convenient way to make gravy.
Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Black Pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the gravy.
Homemade or Canned Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess to the gravy.

These ingredients are versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Gravy

1. Cook the Chicken

Combine chicken breasts and chicken broth in a deep skillet or Dutch oven.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook the chicken, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked.

2. Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the pan, being careful not to splash the hot broth.

3. Prepare the Gravy

Whisk the contents of the chicken gravy packets into the pan with the shredded chicken.
Stir well until the gravy packets are fully dissolved.
Add garlic powder, black pepper, and cream of chicken soup, stirring until thoroughly incorporated.

4. Thicken and Serve

Turn the stove to medium heat and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.

Stovetop vs. Instant Pot: Which Method is Best?

Both the stovetop and Instant Pot methods yield delicious chicken and gravy, but each has its own advantages:

Stovetop Method: Offers more control over the cooking process and is ideal for those who enjoy a hands-on approach. It’s perfect for cooking the chicken and gravy simultaneously.
Instant Pot Method: Saves time and effort, particularly for busy weeknights. The pressure cooker method allows the chicken to cook quickly and evenly, making it a great option for meal prep.

Explore more Instant Pot chicken recipes to see how this method can simplify your cooking routine.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Chicken and Gravy

Chicken and gravy is incredibly versatile, and you can pair it with a variety of sides to create a complete meal:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that soaks up the gravy beautifully.
Rice: A lighter option that provides a nice contrast to the rich gravy.
Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy.
Egg Noodles: For a comforting, hearty meal, serve the chicken and gravy over egg noodles.

Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, to balance out the meal.

Variations of Chicken and Gravy

You can customize chicken and gravy to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Spicy Chicken and Gravy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Gravy: Sauté mushrooms and add them to the gravy for extra richness.
Low-Sodium Chicken and Gravy: Use low-sodium broth and seasonings to reduce the sodium content without sacrificing flavor.

Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature version of this classic dish.

Storing and Reheating Chicken and Gravy

Chicken and gravy stores well and can be easily reheated for quick meals:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze chicken and gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

FAQs About Chicken and Gravy

How can I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, you can add a slurry of flour and water or cornstarch and water. Stir it into the gravy and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought gravy is a convenient option, especially when you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Is it possible to freeze chicken and gravy?

Yes, chicken and gravy freeze well. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

How long does chicken and gravy last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, chicken and gravy can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

What can I do if my gravy is too salty?

If your gravy is too salty, add a bit more broth or water to dilute the saltiness. You can also add a touch of cream or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Chicken and gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using a few shortcuts, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it with your favorite sides, experiment with different variations, and enjoy the deliciousness of this classic comfort food.