Easy Chicken and Gravy

Easy Chicken and Gravy is a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe showcases tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Minimal Ingredients: This recipe uses common kitchen staples, making it easy to whip up on short notice.
• Flavorful Gravy: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich gravy that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a different twist each time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this easy chicken and gravy dish, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. These items will streamline your preparation and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to make the gravy directly in the same pan.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps prevent lumps in your gravy, creating a smooth texture.
• Tongs: Tongs make it easy to handle the chicken without piercing it, keeping the juices intact.

Ingredients

This chicken and gravy recipe uses minimal ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder

For the Gravy

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 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 chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner. Season the chicken with some salt, pepper, and garlic powder (exact measurements are not necessary).

Step 2: Make the Gravy Base

In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Melt 3 tbsp of butter.
2. Once melted, add 3 tbsp of flour.
3. Stir continuously until well combined. Let cook for a few minutes while still stirring.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring well.
2. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
3. Stir until well mixed; allow it to bubble slightly before adding the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Place the seasoned chicken into the skillet ensuring it’s covered in gravy.
2. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees (check earlier if your pieces are thinner).

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked through:
1. Shred the chicken using two forks or tongs.
2. Serve over mashed potatoes or your choice of side! Enjoy! Let me know if you try it out.

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Gravy

Serving Easy Chicken and Gravy is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes create the perfect base for the flavorful gravy. Simply spoon the shredded chicken and gravy on top for a satisfying meal.

With Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice. This combination allows the rice to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a treat.

In a Sandwich

• For a quick lunch, pile the chicken and gravy onto toasted bread or a bun. Add some lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.

Paired with Vegetables

• Complement your chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or carrots work well to add color and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken and Gravy

Perfecting your Easy Chicken and Gravy ensures a delicious outcome every time. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like oregano and thyme elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjusting salt and pepper can make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken reaches 165 degrees but avoid cooking it too long, which can lead to dryness.
• Thicken Gravy Properly: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer, but stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper for heat or garlic powder for an extra punch.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in moist meat when served.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Easy Chicken and Gravy enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm slice of garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
2. Coleslaw
   This crunchy salad adds texture and balances out the richness of the gravy nicely.
3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn complements savory dishes well; grill or boil it for a classic side that’s easy to prepare.
4. Cauliflower Mash
   A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash provides creaminess without added carbs.
5. Green Salad
   A fresh green salad with vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the hearty chicken and gravy.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory flavors, providing balance on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken and Gravy, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
• Skipping the thin slicing: If you don’t cut the chicken breasts thinly, they may not cook evenly. Make sure to halve them lengthwise for quicker and more uniform cooking.
• Neglecting to stir the roux: Overlooking the need to continuously stir the flour and butter mixture can result in lumps. Stir constantly until well combined and golden brown.
• Using high heat throughout: Cooking on too high of a heat will burn the gravy while leaving the chicken undercooked. Start high to brown, then lower the heat to simmer gently.
• Not covering while cooking: Leaving the skillet uncovered may dry out your chicken. Always cover it with a lid while it simmers in gravy for juicy results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Chicken and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Chicken and Gravy from scratch?

Making this dish from scratch involves seasoning chicken breasts, creating a roux with butter and flour, adding chicken broth, and simmering everything together until cooked.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even lamb for a different flavor profile while still enjoying this easy recipe.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Is Easy Chicken and Gravy kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy gravy is often a hit with children, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freeze it, and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken and Gravy is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Whether served over mashed potatoes or rice, this dish promises comfort and satisfaction. Try this easy recipe today!