When it comes to comfort food classics, few dishes satisfy quite like a chicken and gravy recipe. It’s hearty, rich, and made with simple ingredients already in your pantry.
Unlike processed meals, this homemade chicken and gravy requires no canned soup. Plus, it comes together in one pan—making cleanup easy. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or planning a meal prep favorite, this dish delivers on both flavor and simplicity.
For an equally fuss-free side, consider these easy 3-ingredient biscuits, which pair perfectly with the creamy gravy. Or, if you love Southern-style meals, this sheet pan chicken with spicy corn is another great variation to try.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make flavorful gravy from scratch, season chicken just right, and serve it like a pro.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This chicken and gravy recipe is more than just dinner—it’s your new go-to for quick, comforting meals that everyone loves.
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It uses basic pantry staples—no soup cans or seasoning packets required.
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The one-pan method means less mess and faster cleanup.
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It’s beginner-friendly, yet tastes like you’ve cooked all day.
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You can pair it with many sides like mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice.
Even better, this dish complements cozy sides like these crispy waffle fries, perfect for a crave-worthy dinner.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, serve it alongside a simple starter like this classic pastina recipe, which adds a warm Italian twist to your table.
With rich savory gravy and tender shredded chicken, it’s the kind of meal your family will request again and again.
Ingredients Overview
What makes this chicken and gravy recipe so appealing is how simple, flexible, and budget-friendly the ingredients are.
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Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts or substitute with thighs for extra flavor and moisture.
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Butter & Flour: These form the base of the roux, the secret to rich, silky gravy.
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Chicken Broth: Go for low-sodium to control salt levels, or use stock for deeper flavor.
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Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper add bold flavor without fuss.
You likely already have most of these in your pantry. If not, this Lipton onion soup mix breakdown is a helpful resource to explore seasoning substitutions.
You can even elevate your meal by serving it with something fun like banana bread made from cake mix as a sweet finisher.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, these ingredients come together in less than 30 minutes. The gravy thickens quickly, and the chicken stays juicy and fork-tender every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this chicken and gravy recipe is easier than you think. Just follow these steps, and dinner will be ready fast.
1. Prep the Chicken
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Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make thinner pieces.
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Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Thinner pieces cook faster and stay juicy.
2. Start the Roux
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Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 2–3 minutes.
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Cook until the mixture turns golden and thickens slightly.
3. Build the Gravy
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Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring.
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Add paprika, onion powder, thyme, and oregano to deepen flavor.
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Stir until smooth and bubbling.
If you prefer even more depth, try the stock technique from this miso honey chicken sheet pan recipe.
4. Add the Chicken
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Place seasoned chicken into the bubbling gravy.
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Spoon gravy over each piece to coat well.
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Cover and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes.
5. Finish and Shred
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When the chicken reaches 165°F, remove it and shred using two forks.
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Return shredded chicken to the skillet and stir into the gravy.
You can also enjoy this dish over rice, biscuits, or alongside this dirty rice with ground beef for a hearty Southern twist.
From start to finish, this entire process takes just 25–30 minutes. The gravy comes out silky, and the chicken is packed with flavor.
Cooking Variations and Substitutions
This chicken and gravy recipe is highly adaptable, so you can tweak it to suit dietary needs or pantry availability.
Protein Swaps
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Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
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Already cooked? Try shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
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For a twist, turkey breast or pork tenderloin also work well.
Gravy Alternatives
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Replace butter and flour with cornstarch and olive oil for a gluten-free version.
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Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly with meat substitutes.
If you want a meatless twist, serve this gravy over these baked cottage cheese eggs for a high-protein breakfast-for-dinner option.
Flavor Enhancements
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Swap thyme and oregano with Italian seasoning or poultry blend for a bolder taste.
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Add a splash of cream or sour cream for a creamier finish.
Want something spicy? Mix in cayenne or serve with this spicy sheet pan chicken for heat lovers.
With just a few changes, this dish transforms to meet your mood, pantry, or meal plan—without losing its comfort food magic.
How to Serve Chicken and Gravy
The beauty of this chicken and gravy recipe is its versatility—it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides.
Classic Serving Ideas
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Spoon over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
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Serve with buttery biscuits or egg noodles for a cozy, filling plate.
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Try it on fluffy rice for a Southern-inspired twist.
If you’re short on time, whip up these easy 3-ingredient biscuits for a simple but delicious pairing.
Looking to balance the richness? Add something green like roasted broccoli or serve alongside this fried cabbage with bacon for texture and depth.
This dish also works well as a meal prep staple. Just portion the gravy-covered chicken over starches in airtight containers for easy lunches.
With every serving method, the gravy shines—rich, thick, and ready to soak into whatever’s on your plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing leftover chicken and gravy is simple, and it reheats beautifully with minimal effort.
Refrigeration
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Keep the gravy and chicken together to preserve moisture.
Freezing
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Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
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Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To complement your prep routine, pair it with a freezer-friendly side like this banana bread cake mix recipe for a ready-made dessert.
Reheating
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Use a skillet on low heat to warm gently without drying out.
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Add a splash of broth to thin the gravy if it thickens too much.
For lunch-ready portions, store with sides like this flavorful dirty rice recipe for an easy microwave meal.
Handled properly, your chicken and gravy will taste just as good the next day—or even better.
Expert Tips for Success
Want perfect chicken and gravy every time? These pro tips will help you avoid common mistakes and elevate your dish.
Flavor and Texture Tips
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Always use a meat thermometer. Cook chicken to 165°F for safe, juicy results.
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Don’t rush the roux—it builds depth in the gravy and ensures a smooth, rich finish.
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Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness, especially when adding seasoning blends.
To master roux-based dishes, you can explore this creamy pot pie chicken and noodles for inspiration.
Pro Cooking Moves
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Thin the chicken breasts for quicker, even cooking.
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Stir constantly while making the gravy to avoid lumps or scorching.
Bonus tip: If you love thick, hearty meals, serve with this acini de pepe pasta for extra comfort.
Following these expert suggestions ensures your gravy is silky, your chicken is tender, and your meal turns out restaurant-quality—every single time.
Reader Modifications and Real-Life Reviews
One reason this chicken and gravy recipe stands out? Real home cooks have tested and personalized it with amazing results.
Popular Reader Modifications
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Swap chicken breasts for thighs to add deeper flavor.
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Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker, no-cook version.
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Add frozen mixed vegetables for a full one-pan meal.
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Stir in a splash of cream for a richer, velvety gravy.
Several readers mentioned using seasoning mixes from this Lipton soup mix guide to boost flavor in a pinch.
Others have paired it with easy biscuit recipes or served over buttery egg noodles with great success.
Real-Life Reviews
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“This is now part of our weekly dinner rotation!”
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“So easy and the gravy came out perfect—no lumps!”
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“My picky eater had seconds—huge win!”
This recipe is versatile, customizable, and loved by beginner and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re after comfort or convenience, it consistently delivers satisfying results.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
This chicken and gravy recipe is not only delicious but also reasonably balanced for a hearty comfort meal.
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown
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Calories: 320–380 (varies by broth and butter used)
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Protein: 30g
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Carbs: 10g
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Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 750mg
To reduce sodium, choose low-sodium broth or check out this Lipton mix ingredient guide.
Want to add fiber? Serve with a veggie-rich side like this fried cabbage with bacon for a more balanced plate.
These numbers are approximate and may change based on portion size and ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay moist. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I make chicken and gravy in a crockpot?
Absolutely. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker, and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
What is the best way to thicken gravy?
Use a butter-flour roux for the smoothest texture. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry also works well.
For more help on thickening gravies, this Lipton soup thickener guide offers useful insight.
Can I use chicken stock instead of broth?
Yes. Chicken stock adds deeper, richer flavor, especially in recipes like this.
What can I serve with chicken and gravy?
Top choices include mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or these easy 3-ingredient biscuits.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months in airtight containers.