If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Tender, golden-brown chicken breasts swimming in a rich, creamy gravy seasoned with fragrant herbs create a dish that’s both simple and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings that perfect balance of hearty flavors and velvety texture, making any mealtime memorable and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and the perfect texture. These basics are simple, easy to find, and come together beautifully to deliver that classic Southern-inspired comfort food experience.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth that complements the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the gravy’s richness with subtle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden crust.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness to the gravy.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The thickening agent for a smooth, luscious gravy.
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth: Forms the savory base of the gravy with depth and body.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Gives the gravy its creamy texture and comforting flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a gentle earthy aroma that elevates the gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning mix ensures every bite bursts with flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm. This step locks in juices and builds the flavorful foundation for your gravy.
Step 2: Create the Roux for the Gravy
Using the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep whisking and cooking the mixture for about a minute until it turns a light golden color. This process removes the raw flour taste and sets the stage for a silky smooth gravy.
Step 3: Whisk in Broth and Milk
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Once combined, stir in the whole milk along with the dried thyme and dried parsley. Keep the gravy at a gentle simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. During this time, the gravy thickens beautifully, becoming creamy and fragrant. This step is where it all comes together—the herb-infused gravy you’ll soon pour over your chicken.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gravy
Return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the velvety gravy. Spoon some gravy over each piece, then let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up those luscious flavors, making every bite moist and satisfying. Your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of freshness and bright color, making your dish look as appetizing as it tastes. For a touch of warmth, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of melted butter over the top provides extra appeal and flavor layers.
Side Dishes
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every drop of that delectable gravy. For a lighter option, fluffy rice or buttery biscuits are classic choices that complement the dish without competing with its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and gravy over a bed of sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables for added color and crunch. Alternatively, slice the chicken and lay it atop warm biscuits, then generously drizzle it with gravy for an irresistible open-faced sandwich that’ll wow guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal again without starting from scratch.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from separating. If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra flavor and remain juicy, making them a fantastic alternative in this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This minor tweak keeps the gravy smooth and thick without compromising taste.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead and store it separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring, then add hot cooked chicken when ready to serve.
How can I adjust the thickness of the gravy?
If your gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in additional chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Too thin? Let it simmer a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
What sides work best with this recipe?
Mashed potatoes, rice, and biscuits are classic and delightful companions to this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. For a veggie boost, steamed green beans or roasted carrots make lovely, colorful additions.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dinner that feels like coming home to something truly comforting, this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is your go-to. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any night you want to nourish both body and soul. I promise once you make it, it’ll become one of your favorite meals to share again and again.
Print
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic homestyle chicken and gravy recipe featuring juicy, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy homemade gravy. This comforting dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Gravy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the roux: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture turns lightly golden, forming the base of the gravy.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the whole milk along with dried thyme and dried parsley. Simmer the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until the gravy thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine and heat through: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors and heat everything through.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts topped with gravy. Enjoy warm alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor and tenderness, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts.
- This dish is delicious served with mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits.
- If the gravy is too thick, add more chicken broth a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
