If you are craving a comforting and versatile sauce that brings your meal together in the most delightful way, this Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly captures the rich, savory essence of chicken drippings enhanced with aromatic herbs, creating a luscious gravy that is both smooth and deeply flavorful. Whether spooned over crispy roasted chicken or creamy mashed potatoes, this gravy adds a homemade touch that elevates any dish into a cozy feast without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that classic gravy flavor and silky texture. From the buttery richness to the subtle herbal notes, these components come together seamlessly to create a comfort food staple.
- 2 cups Chicken Drippings or Chicken Broth: Chicken drippings offer an intense, concentrated flavor, but broth is a perfect substitute for a lighter taste.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a smooth base that helps the flour cook evenly.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: Acts as the thickening agent to give your gravy that perfect, velvety consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your personal preference.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle hint of spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Brings a fragrant, earthy note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 cup Water: Used to adjust the gravy’s thickness if it becomes too dense.
How to Make Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Begin by gathering all the ingredients so you’re organized throughout the cooking process. If you’re using fresh chicken drippings, let them sit for a moment to allow the fat to rise to the top—this helps you skim off excess fat for a cleaner gravy.
Step 2: Create the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns a warm golden brown. This step is key to developing a nutty flavor that forms the foundation of your gravy.
Step 3: Add Liquids Gradually
Slowly pour in the chicken drippings or broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. If the gravy seems too thick, gradually stir in the water until you reach your preferred consistency. This patience keeps your gravy smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. This simmers the raw flour taste away and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once your gravy has thickened and the aroma fills your kitchen, remove it from heat. If you prefer a silky texture, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. Serve your Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe warm, spooned generously over your favorite chicken dishes, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing brightens up a bowl of chicken gravy like a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Try chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A pinch of cracked black pepper just before serving can also enhance the visual appeal and taste.
Side Dishes
This gravy pairs wonderfully with classic comfort foods such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery roasted vegetables, or even fluffy biscuits. Its rich texture and savory depth turn simple sides into centerpieces of your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the gravy in individual small sauceboats to let guests ladle their own portions. Or drizzle it artistically over plates with roasted chicken and vibrant sides for an elegant touch that impresses at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover gravy into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick, flavorful meals during a busy week.
Freezing
This Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe freezes beautifully. Pour cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes meal prep a breeze whenever you need a comforting sauce ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the gravy thickens too much, whisk in a little water or broth to restore its silky consistency. This way, every serving tastes as fresh as the first.
FAQs
Can I use chicken broth instead of drippings?
Absolutely! While chicken drippings offer a richer, more concentrated flavor, chicken broth is a convenient and tasty alternative that keeps the gravy delicious and light.
Is it necessary to strain the gravy?
Straining is optional but recommended if you prefer a smooth, lump-free gravy. It removes any bits of cooked flour or herbs for a velvety finish.
Can I make this gravy without butter?
Butter adds richness and helps thicken the gravy, but you can substitute it with oil or use broth alone. Just be aware the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
To thicken, simmer the gravy a bit longer to reduce the liquid or add a touch more flour mixed with butter. To thin, whisk in small amounts of water or broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Will the gravy keep if I don’t refrigerate immediately?
It’s best to refrigerate the gravy promptly after it cools to avoid bacterial growth. Leaving it at room temperature for extended periods is not safe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a good homemade gravy, and this Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe delivers all the warmth and flavor you could hope for. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a delicious result make it a fantastic go-to sauce that will elevate your meals with ease. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with friends and family, and make those everyday dinners feel special and memorable.
Print
Easy Chicken Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Gravy recipe is a simple and flavorful sauce made from chicken drippings or broth, thickened with butter and flour, and seasoned with herbs and spices. Perfect for enhancing your chicken dishes, mashed potatoes, or vegetables with a rich, savory gravy that comes together quickly in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Gravy Base
- 2 cups Chicken Drippings or Chicken Broth (Use drippings for concentrated flavor or broth as an alternative.)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and smooth texture.)
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Thickening agent for gravy.)
- 1/2 cup Water (Optional for thinning the gravy.)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds warmth and spice.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional for added flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Enhances savory profile.)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and allow the chicken drippings to sit so the fat rises to the top, making it easier to use for the gravy.
- Melt Butter and Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, cooking until the mixture turns a golden brown color, which ensures a rich flavor without raw flour taste.
- Add Liquid Slowly: Gradually pour in the chicken drippings or broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. If the gravy becomes too thick, add the optional water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken properly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the gravy from heat. For an extra smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve if desired. Serve warm over chicken, mashed potatoes, or vegetables for a comforting meal addition.
Notes
- Using chicken drippings instead of broth will give a more concentrated and authentic chicken flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially salt, since chicken broth or drippings can vary in saltiness.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water or simmer a bit longer to thicken further.
- Straining the gravy is optional but recommended for a smooth texture free of lumps or bits.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.
