This easy homemade chicken and gravy is a warm hug in a bowl! Tender chicken sits in a rich, savory gravy that makes any meal feel special. Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes for the perfect combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs for their flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work too, but they might not be as juicy!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the gravy. If you’re short on onions, shallots or leeks can be substituted for a different flavor twist.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is great to control salt levels. For a vegetarian option, substitute with vegetable broth or white wine for a different taste—just remember to adjust seasoning!
Heavy Cream: Adding cream makes the gravy richer. You can swap it with milk for a lighter version, or use dairy-free milk like almond or coconut if you prefer non-dairy.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken Skin?
Getting that delicious, crispy skin is key to this dish. Start with a hot skillet and don’t rush the cooking process. Here’s how:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; moisture prevents crispiness.
- Use medium-high heat when adding chicken skin-side down; this seals in flavors.
- Let it cook untouched for 5-6 minutes until it releases easily and is golden brown.
- Once flipped, allow it to cook again on the other side for the same time.
Following these tips helps ensure your chicken is perfectly crispy while the inside remains juicy!
Easy Homemade Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creamier gravy)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious homemade chicken and gravy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a comforting meal ready in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and cook them for about 5-6 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. SautĂ© until the onion becomes softened and translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and give it a stir for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn!
4. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes; this helps remove the raw taste and starts to create your gravy base.
5. Add the Broth:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help it thicken nicely.
6. Season and Simmer:
Add the thyme and paprika (if using) to the gravy, stirring to combine. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, making sure to nestle it into the gravy. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
7. Finish the Gravy:
If you want a creamier gravy, stir in the heavy cream or milk just before serving. Heat it through without boiling. This will give your gravy a luscious texture.
8. Adjust and Serve:
Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is seasoned to your liking, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Enjoy your comforting, easy homemade chicken and gravy!
FAQ About Easy Homemade Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts will work well, but be sure to reduce the cooking time to avoid drying it out. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Thicken the Gravy More?
If you’d like a thicker gravy, you can mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the gravy during the simmering step until it reaches your desired consistency.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This?
This chicken and gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. You can also serve it alongside green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from separating.
