This Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is a quick and delicious option for any weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking to prepare a comforting meal. The rich, savory gravy complements tender chicken perfectly, making it an ideal choice for serving over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is not only simple to make but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This meal can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to create this flavorful dish.
- One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet means less stress after dinner.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a fulfilling meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors of chicken and gravy are sure to please family and friends alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this easy chicken and gravy, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps develop the flavors in your gravy.
- Whisk: This tool ensures that your flour is fully incorporated into the butter, preventing lumps in your gravy.
Ingredients
This chicken and gravy recipe uses minimal ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make!
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp each of salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme
- 1 tsp each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder
How to Make Easy Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner.
- Season the chicken with some salt, pepper, and garlic powder. (Measurements are flexible here.)
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter.
- Add 3 tbsp of flour, stirring continuously until well combined. Cook for a few minutes while stirring.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Slowly add in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring well.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and additional garlic powder. Stir until bubbling.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken into the skillet ensuring it is covered in the gravy.
- Cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Step 5: Serve
- Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or rice. Enjoy! Let me know if you try it out!
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Gravy
Serving Easy Chicken and Gravy is simple and delicious. This comforting dish can be paired with various sides or served in different ways to elevate your meal experience.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for the gravy. The rich flavors meld perfectly together, creating a cozy dinner.
With Rice
- Serve the chicken and gravy over rice for a lighter option. The rice absorbs the gravy, making every bite flavorful.
In a Sandwich
- For a fun twist, shred the chicken and serve it in a sandwich. Top with some fresh greens for added crunch.
On a Biscuit
- Top warm biscuits with chicken and gravy for a Southern-inspired treat. This combination is perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast.
With Vegetables
- Pair the dish with steamed or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal. Green beans or broccoli work well to complement the flavors.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken and Gravy
To make your Easy Chicken and Gravy even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and thyme can enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried herbs.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Cook chicken evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked.
Thicken sauce if needed: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with water before adding it to the skillet.
Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken and Gravy
Pairing side dishes with Easy Chicken and Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the gravy perfectly while providing an excellent vehicle for sauce absorption.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the gravy, making every bite satisfying.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring color and healthy nutrients to your plate alongside this comforting dish.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for scooping up that delicious gravy while adding a hint of sweetness.
Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, mashed cauliflower provides a creamy texture similar to potatoes without all the carbs.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and freshness, making your meal look as good as it tastes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Chicken and Gravy, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.
- Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and gravy properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and spices generously.
- Not checking chicken doneness: Overcooking or undercooking chicken can ruin your meal. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Using cold broth: Adding cold chicken broth can affect the cooking process and texture. Make sure your broth is at room temperature before adding it.
- Neglecting to stir: If you don’t stir the gravy continuously while cooking, it may clump or burn. Keep stirring for a smooth consistency.
- Ignoring thickness adjustments: If your gravy is too thick or thin, adjust it by adding more broth or flour as needed. Always taste and adjust accordingly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool down before sealing tightly.
Freezing Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many home cooks have questions about making Easy Chicken and Gravy. Here are some common inquiries.
How do I make Easy Chicken and Gravy more flavorful?
You can enhance flavors by using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Additionally, adding sautéed onions or mushrooms can add depth.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What should I serve with Easy Chicken and Gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Feel free to add steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
How can I customize Easy Chicken and Gravy?
You can customize it by adding different spices or vegetables such as carrots or peas during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Easy Chicken and Gravy is not just quick but also incredibly satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether served over mashed potatoes or rice, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Give it a try today!
Easy Chicken and Gravy
Easy Chicken and Gravy is a comforting, quick meal that brings warmth to any dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes using just a handful of pantry staples. Tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a rich, savory gravy that pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes or rice. This one-pan dish not only simplifies cleanup but also offers versatility for various occasions, from family dinners to special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Paprika
- Onion powder
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until combined.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously. Season with remaining spices and let bubble.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
