Name: Chicken and Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 3 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped (optional, for garnish))

Irresistible Reasons to Love This Chicken and Gravy Recipe

A Timeless Comfort Food Classic

Chicken and gravy is a beloved dish that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. This comforting combination of tender chicken smothered in rich, velvety gravy is the epitome of home-cooked goodness. Our recipe takes this classic to new heights, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia.

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Simplicity Meets Gourmet Taste

While chicken and gravy may seem like a simple dish, our recipe elevates it to gourmet status without compromising on ease. You’ll be amazed at how a few key techniques and ingredient choices can transform everyday ingredients into a meal that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant.

Versatile and Family-Friendly

One of the best things about this chicken and gravy recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce children to new flavors while still giving them the comfort of familiar ingredients. Pair it with our sweet potato cornbread recipe for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

the chicken dish: golden-brown fillets drizzled with a rich, creamy gravy

Recipe Quick Facts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 420

What You’ll Need for Comforting Chicken and Gravy

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Top-down view of ingredients for chicken and gravy, including chicken fillets, flour, herbs, onion, and garlic, on a wooden board.

How to Create Perfect Chicken and Gravy

Preparing the Chicken

In a shallow dish, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior.
Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

A hand is seen sprinkling paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the fillets.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate tented with foil to keep warm.

split image with chicken fillets being dredged in a bowl of flour. The hand of the cook is turning a fillet in the flour and second ima in right describe cooking the chicken

Making the Gravy

In the same skillet or a different one, lower the heat to medium and melt some butter.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the remaining seasoned flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to coat.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy starts to thicken.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

auté pan where onions and garlic are being cooked in melted butter.

the creamy gravy being whisked in a small saucepan.

Finishing Touches

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow it to absorb some of the gravy flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

large skillet on a stovetop, with four golden-brown chicken fillets sizzling in hot oil.

golden-brown fillets drizzled with a rich, creamy gravy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Gravy

For extra-crispy chicken, let the flour-coated breasts sit for 5-10 minutes before frying. This allows the coating to adhere better.
If your gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce.
For a lighter version, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Check out our thin-sliced chicken breast recipes for more ideas.
To add depth to your gravy, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth.
For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour for both the chicken coating and the gravy thickener.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets crispy and golden.
For a tangier gravy, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard along with the heavy cream.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

Delicious Variations to Try

Herb-Infused Gravy

Add a bouquet garni (a bundle of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves) to the gravy while it simmers. Remove before serving for an aromatic twist.

Mushroom Lover’s Delight

Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the onions for a rich, earthy flavor. This pairs wonderfully with our sizzling tenderloin tips recipe.

A variation of the dish, featuring a creamy mushroom sauce. The chicken fillets are topped with lightly sautéed mushrooms, which are golden-brown and glistening with butter.

Lemon and Caper Chicken Gravy

Add the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of capers to the gravy for a bright, tangy flavor profile.

Smoky Bacon Infusion

Crisp up 4 slices of bacon before cooking the chicken, then crumble and add to the gravy for a smoky, salty kick. For more smoky flavors, check out our master guide to smoker recipes.

Serving Ideas for Comforting Chicken and Gravy

Classic mashed potatoes: The ultimate comfort food pairing
Steamed green beans almondine: For a fresh, crunchy contrast
Fluffy white rice: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of gravy
Roasted root vegetables: Add color and nutrition to your plate
Delicious cottage cheese bread: A protein-packed side that complements the dish beautifully
Buttered egg noodles: A traditional accompaniment that never disappoints
Steamed broccoli: For a pop of green and added nutrients

Why This Chicken and Gravy Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Comfort Food at Its Finest

There’s something inherently satisfying about a plate of chicken and gravy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort.

Effortless Elegance

While this dish is deeply rooted in home cooking, our recipe elevates it to new heights. The result is a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated, making it suitable for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or gourmet food lovers, this chicken and gravy recipe is sure to impress. Its universal appeal makes it a go-to option for family dinners and gatherings alike.

This comforting chicken and gravy recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Its simplicity belies its rich flavors, and its versatility means you can enjoy it in countless ways. From cozy family dinners to impressive dinner parties, this dish has you covered.

For more chicken inspiration, why not try our zesty chicken rotel recipe or our sizzling chicken hibachi for a different flavor profile? And if you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons, check out this comprehensive guide to classic French sauces from Le Cordon Bleu for more ways to elevate your cooking.

Chicken and Gravy

Georgina Smith

This chicken and gravy recipe offers a rich, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. Tender chicken breasts are paired with a velvety gravy, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet
Shallow dish
Tongs
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Meat thermometer
Foil (for tenting chicken)

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

In a shallow dish, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior.
Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Cooking the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate tented with foil to keep warm.

Making the Gravy:

In the same skillet or a different one, lower the heat to medium and melt some butter.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the remaining seasoned flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to coat.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Finishing Touches:

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow it to absorb some of the gravy flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Let the flour-coated chicken breasts sit for 5-10 minutes before frying for a crispier texture.
If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it with additional chicken broth or milk.
For a lighter option, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Deglaze the pan with white wine for added depth of flavor before adding the broth.
Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Try These Variations

Herb-Infused Gravy: Add a bouquet garni (a bundle of thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves) to the gravy while it simmers, removing before serving for an aromatic twist.
Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the onions for a rich, earthy flavor.
Lemon and Caper Chicken Gravy: Add the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of capers for a bright, tangy flavor profile.
Smoky Bacon Infusion: Fry 4 slices of bacon before cooking the chicken, crumble, and add to the gravy for a smoky, salty kick.

Keyword chicken and gravy recipe, classic comfort food, comforting chicken dishes, easy chicken dinner, rich chicken gravy