If you’re yearning for some comfort food that feels like a warm hug, look no further than the delightful Homestyle Chicken and Gravy. This dish is the epitome of savory goodness, marrying tender chicken with a rich, velvety gravy that’s perfect over a heap of mashed potatoes. It’s everything you love about homemade meals wrapped up in one tasty package.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Satisfying: The combination of chicken and gravy is simply irresistible and packs a flavor punch.
- Simple Ingredients: You won’t need anything fancy to whip up this delicious meal; it’s perfect for kitchen staples.
- Versatile Side Pairing: Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes or rice, it’s bound to impress.
- Family Favorite: This dish is so beloved, it’ll quickly become a regular on your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is a breeze with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Each one plays a crucial role in developing the robust flavors and comforting textures that make this dish shine.
- Chicken Breasts: Using large or medium chicken breasts ensures the meat remains juicy and tender after cooking.
- Olive Oil: It helps to sear the chicken beautifully, adding a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish.
- Butter: Essential for creating a rich roux that forms the base of the gravy.
- All Purpose Flour: This is key to thickening the gravy for that luxurious texture.
- Chicken Stock: Forms the backbone of the gravy, infusing it with savory depth.
Variations
This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy can be customized to fit your kitchen and dietary preferences, allowing each meal to be a uniquely scrumptious experience. Feel free to get creative with the base recipe!
- Mushroom Add-In: Add sliced mushrooms during the gravy-making step for an earthy twist that complements the richness.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary with the stock for an aromatic lift to the dish.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in a skillet over medium heat using a bit of olive oil. Cook each side for about five minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Create the Gravy Base
Once the chicken is cooked and set aside, reduce the heat and introduce butter to the skillet, followed by the chicken base. Next, integrate the flour mixture to form a roux, stirring until it becomes a bubbly paste.
Step 3: Simmer the Gravy
Gradually add chicken stock while scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. Stir in water and whisk continuously to prevent lumps. Let this simmer until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Optionally add heavy cream for extra richness, then return the shredded chicken to the skillet to soak in the gravy goodness. Let it all simmer together for a few minutes, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
Pro Tips for Making Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
- Juicy Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices and ensure maximum flavor.
- Gravy Consistency: For a thicker gravy, allow it to simmer longer; for thinner, simply add more stock.
- Avoid Over-Salting: Since the chicken base and stock are seasoned, be cautious with added salt.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of cream last for a decadent, luscious texture.
How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Garnishes
Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich gravy wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs exceptionally well with mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice, providing the perfect base to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the Homestyle Chicken and Gravy in individual ramekins, accompanied by a selection of steamed vegetables for a balanced, colorful meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures the dish stays fresh while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezing
Place the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it to the right consistency.
FAQs
-
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option, providing a slightly richer flavor and staying incredibly moist.
-
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version of the dish, although it will slightly alter the texture.
-
Is it necessary to shred the chicken?
No, you can serve the breasts whole or sliced if you prefer larger pieces. Shredding is purely optional and based on preference.
-
How do I know if my gravy is too salty?
Taste the gravy before serving. If it’s too salty, add a splash of water or unsalted stock and let it simmer to balance the flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a meal that wraps comforting flavors in a cozy blanket, look no further than this delightful Homestyle Chicken and Gravy. It’s a dish that warms the heart and brings a smile to the table. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire!
PrintHomestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is a comforting and savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a creamy, flavorful gravy. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you crave hearty comfort food.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts split lengthwise into thinner breasts; or 4 medium/small chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- kosher salt & black pepper
Gravy
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (Better Than Bouillon recommended)
- 4 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well. Set aside.
- Season and cook the chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the gravy base: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add butter and the chicken base to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined.
- Form the roux: Sprinkle the flour mixture over the melted butter and chicken base in the skillet. Stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Build the gravy: Gradually pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add water and whisk until smooth, ensuring no lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add cream and chicken back in: Stir in the heavy cream (if using). Shred or leave the chicken as is, then add it back to the gravy along with any juices. Simmer for a few more minutes to meld flavors.
- Final tasting and serving: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice, with optional peas and garlic bread on the side.
Notes
- Too thick? Add more liquid such as chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency.
- Too thin? Let it simmer longer or whisk in a mixture of 2 teaspoons cornstarch and 3 teaspoons water to thicken.
- Too salty? Add a little water and simmer to dilute the saltiness, then re-thicken as needed.
- Need more flavor? Sprinkle in additional onion powder, garlic powder, or try adding ground sage or poultry seasoning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *