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Nothing says home-cooked comfort like a skillet of chicken simmered in silky gravy. This easy chicken and gravy recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights when I need something hearty but do not want to fuss for hours over the stove. With just a handful of staple ingredients and one pan, you will have supper on the table in under half an hour.
I started making this dish in college when grocery trips were rare and everything needed to stretch. It quickly stuck around because every time I serve it over buttery mashed potatoes the whole house quiets down in happy anticipation.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless skinless pieces and slice them thin for even and fast cooking. Look for fresh cuts with a pink hue and no strong smells for the best texture.
- Butter: The base of the gravy needs real butter for richness. I always grab unsalted so I can control the seasoning myself.
- Flour: This thickens the gravy and gives it a classic texture. All purpose works best here just make sure it is fresh so you do not get any odd flavors.
- Chicken broth: Go for low sodium if possible to have control over salt levels. Homemade or store bought both work well.
- Salt and pepper: Use freshly cracked pepper if you can. Fine sea salt seasons quickly and evenly.
- Oregano and thyme: These herbs add layers of savory flavor to keep the gravy from tasting flat. Dried herbs are dependable for year-round use.
- Paprika, onion powder, garlic powder: These spices round out the gravy and amplify the comfort factor. I love a smoked paprika for subtle smokiness but use what you have.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner. Sprinkle each piece with salt, pepper, and garlic powder making sure all sides are evenly seasoned. Patting the chicken dry first will help you get better browning.
- Make the Roux:
- Place a skillet over medium high heat and add the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir with a wooden spoon until it is smooth and bubbling. Let this cook for three minutes whisking constantly to avoid burning and to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Build the Gravy:
- Pour the chicken broth in slowly while stirring to keep everything lump free. Toss in the salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until the gravy starts to bubble and thicken slightly.
- Simmer the Chicken:
- Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces into the gravy making sure they are all covered. Lower the heat to medium low and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for twelve to fifteen minutes checking after twelve if your chicken pieces are thin. They are ready when the internal temperature reads one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit.
- Shred and Serve:
- Remove the cooked chicken from the gravy and use two forks to shred it or slice if preferred. Return the meat to the gravy and spoon everything generously over mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits.
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Thyme is my MVP flavor in this recipe. There is just something about that subtle woodsy note that takes the gravy from basic to crave worthy. Every time I make this my little one gets excited to help sprinkle the herbs and that aroma fills the kitchen with childhood memories for both of us.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The gravy will thicken a bit overnight but stirs right back to silky once reheated with a splash of broth or water. I also love freezing extra portions for easy future dinners just thaw gently and reheat on the stove.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs work well if you want even juicier meat just increase the cooking time a few extra minutes. While butter is classic you can use olive oil in a pinch for a lighter gravy. If you do not have all the spices on hand swap in dried Italian seasoning or a pinch of whatever favorite seasoning blend is in your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
Pour the chicken and gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes of course but it is also wonderful with egg noodles, buttery rice, polenta, or even a thick slice of crusty bread. I sometimes add a side of green beans or simple sautéed spinach for a pop of color and freshness.
A Bit of Context
This recipe captures the spirit of American home cooking where gravy and chicken spell comfort at every table. It was inspired by the simple skillet suppers that generations before us relied on to stretch a few ingredients into something special especially in colder months.
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With these simple steps, chicken and gravy is sure to become your new family favorite. Cozy, satisfying, and ready in no time — comfort food does not get better than this.