If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish to serve at family dinners or for a cozy night in, this Chicken and Gravy Recipe is just what you need. This recipe is easy to prepare and always hits the spot, featuring tender, juicy chicken paired with a rich, flavorful gravy. It’s a classic dish simple enough for weeknight meals but special enough to impress guests.
1. Introduction to Chicken and Gravy
Chicken and gravy is a traditional comfort food that has been loved for generations. Something about the combination of tender, juicy chicken paired with a creamy, savory gravy makes it so satisfying. The dish is versatile and can be served with various sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles. It’s perfect for colder months when you crave something warm and hearty but is just as enjoyable year-round.
This recipe features a whole chicken seasoned and seared to perfection, then slow-cooked in a flavorful broth. The gravy is made by thickening the broth with cream and flour, creating a rich and smooth sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.
2. Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken and Gravy Recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (around 1.5 kg) – Use a whole chicken for a rustic feel or substitute with your favorite cuts.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 chopped onion – Enhances the gravy with sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic infuses the broth with a rich aroma.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Creates the base for the gravy and keeps the chicken moist.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – Adds richness to the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Seasons the dish throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight spice and balances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional) – For a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color in the gravy.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley for a pop of color
- Thyme or rosemary sprigs for added flavor
3. How to Prepare Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and reach the desired doneness.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Place the whole chicken with the onions and garlic in the skillet, and brown it on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes in total. Browning the chicken locks in flavor and gives the skin a nice crispy texture.
Step 4: Simmer the chicken
Once the chicken is browned, add 2 cups of chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the broth to a boil, reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 40 minutes. During this time, the chicken will soak up all the broth, onions, and garlic flavors.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
After 40 minutes, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the broth and stir continuously as it simmers. The sauce will thicken into a delicious gravy. If you prefer a thinner gravy, add a little more chicken broth.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Place the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavours meld together. Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and pour the gravy over the top. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favourite side dishes.
4. Tips for Perfect Chicken and Gravy
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before browning the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispier during the browning process.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t Rush the Gravy: Allow it to simmer slowly as it thickens. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
5. Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about chicken and gravy is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations you might like to try.
- Chicken Cuts: If you don’t want a whole chicken, substitute it with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even boneless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Broth Substitution: You can use vegetable or beef broth for a different flavor profile.
- Cream Alternatives: If heavy cream is unavailable, substitute it with half-and-half or milk combined with a bit of butter. This will give you a similar richness without the extra fat.
- Add Veggies: For a heartier dish, add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or peas to the gravy.
- Spices: Customize the spice level by adding cayenne or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or swap out paprika for smoked paprika.
6. How to Serve Chicken and Gravy
Chicken and gravy pair well with various sides, making it incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side for chicken and gravy. The potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
- Rice: Steamed white or brown rice makes for a great alternative. The gravy coats the rice perfectly, making for a wholesome meal.
- Buttered Noodles: Egg noodles or buttered pasta are a tasty alternative to potatoes or rice.
- Vegetables: For a balanced meal, Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or asparagus.
7. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s the proper way to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Transfer any leftover chicken and gravy to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked chicken and gravy. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium heat and warm until the chicken is heated through. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to thin the gravy as it reheats.
8. Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this Chicken and Gravy Recipe:
- Calories: 945 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 64g
- Fat: 78g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Cholesterol: 290mg
- Sodium: 1213mg
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sugar: 0.25g
- Vitamin A: 300IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 15mg
- Iron: 0.75mg
9. Conclusion: Why You’ll Love this Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This Chicken and Gravy Recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking to make a comforting, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions with tender chicken, rich gravy, and simple preparation. The dish’s versatility allows you to serve it with various sides, making it a well-rounded meal that your family will love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for a cold night or a hearty meal to impress guests, this recipe covers you.
Check out [link to another recipe] for more classic comfort food recipes.
Chiken and Gravy Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 Frying Pan
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (around 1.5 kg)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the onion and garlic, and cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened.
Add the chicken to the skillet and brown it on all sides, cooking for about 10 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and allow it to simmer for 40 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and flour into the broth. Stir well and let it simmer until the gravy thickens.
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle the gravy over the top. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
Notes
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Tips for best results:
- For extra crispy skin, make sure to pat the chicken dry before browning it in the skillet.
- Add your favourite herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to the broth for flavour.
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Substitutions:
- If heavy cream is unavailable, substitute with half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of butter.
- You can use a slow cooker instead of a pressure cooker; simply adjust the cooking time as needed.
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Storage:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a little extra broth to keep the chicken moist.
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Serving suggestions:
- This dish goes beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.