Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs take a few more minutes to cook through.

How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

If the gravy is too thin, let it simmer longer, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it in. If it’s too thick, add more chicken broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and gravy up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What can I serve with chicken and gravy besides mashed potatoes?

Rice, buttered noodles, biscuits, or even toasted bread make great alternatives for soaking up the rich gravy.

Homestyle Chicken and Gravy

Name: Comforting Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (split lengthwise) or 4 small/medium chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 3 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon); 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups chicken stock; ½ cup water; ¼ cup heavy cream (optional); Mashed potatoes (for serving)

Description

This Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is a comforting, beginner-friendly dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, velvety gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy meal pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an ideal go-to for cozy, homemade comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large chicken breasts (split lengthwise) or 4 small/medium chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon)
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups chicken stock
½ cup water
¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
Mashed potatoes (for serving)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the chicken base until well combined. Sprinkle in the flour, onion powder, and garlic powder, then stir continuously for 30 seconds to 1 minute, creating a smooth paste.
Incorporate the Liquid: Slowly pour in the chicken stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the water and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Let the gravy simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Return the Chicken: Shred the chicken into large pieces or leave the breasts whole. Add the chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the gravy. Let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes. If using, pour in the heavy cream for an extra-rich texture.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the gravy and adjust seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, let it simmer longer.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon warm mashed potatoes onto plates and generously ladle the chicken and gravy over the top. Garnish with extra black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickener.
To make this dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and omit the heavy cream.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated on the stovetop with a little extra broth to loosen the gravy.
If you prefer whole chicken pieces, skip shredding and serve the chicken breasts whole with the gravy poured over the top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (with mashed potatoes)
Calories: 362 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 675mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.4g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0.3g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 115mg