Easy Chicken and Gravy

This Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. You’ll love how effortlessly the flavors come together, making it a go-to choice for busy cooks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Gravy: The rich gravy created from chicken broth and seasonings elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one skillet, making post-meal cleanup a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken, essential for flavor development.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your gravy has the perfect consistency and flavor.
• Cutting board: Helps keep your workspace organized while safely preparing ingredients.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when integrating flour into the broth.

Ingredients

This chicken and gravy recipe has tender pan fried chicken breasts smothered in a rich gravy. It’s made with pantry ingredients and comes together fast!

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Gravy

• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Optional Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Easy Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken in half lengthwise so you’ve got 4 thinner cutlets. Season each piece with salt & pepper and garlic powder.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Let the pan heat up for a few minutes. Then add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the skillet, and once it’s melted, stir in the flour. Cook for about one minute until lightly browned. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Seasoning

Stir in Italian seasoning and onion powder.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Gravy

Add the chicken back to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Cook for another 4-5 minutes or until it has finished cooking through (165F) and sauce has thickened further. You may need to turn down the heat so it’s gently bubbling.

Step 6: Final Touches

Season with salt & pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley if using, then serve immediately.

Enjoy this comforting Easy Chicken and Gravy dish that promises satisfaction with every bite!

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Gravy

Easy Chicken and Gravy is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair it with different sides or serve it over grains for a complete meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty and filling dish. The rice absorbs the delicious gravy, enhancing the flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Ladle the rich gravy over creamy mashed potatoes. This classic combination is comforting and perfect for any dinner table.

On Top of Biscuits

• For a Southern twist, serve the chicken and gravy on warm, flaky biscuits. This creates a satisfying meal that’s great for breakfast or brunch.

In a Casserole

• Layer the chicken and gravy in a casserole dish with vegetables and cheese for a baked delight. Bake until bubbly for an easy one-dish meal.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair your chicken with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans. The fresh vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.

As a Sandwich

• Shred leftover chicken and layer it on bread or in a wrap with additional gravy. This makes for a delicious lunch option that’s easy to prepare.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken and Gravy

Achieving the perfect Easy Chicken and Gravy is simple with these helpful tips. A few adjustments can elevate your dish significantly.

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley or thyme brightens the flavor of the gravy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Control heat: Keep the heat low when thickening the sauce to prevent burning while ensuring it develops rich flavors.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking improves its juiciness before serving.
• Experiment with broth: Try using homemade chicken broth for even richer flavor in your gravy.
• Thicken wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in extra flour gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken and Gravy

To enhance your meal, consider serving Easy Chicken and Gravy with these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up extra gravy, garlic bread brings a crunchy texture that pairs well with this dish.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad adds freshness and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the chicken and gravy.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These crispy sprouts provide a delicious contrast in texture while adding nutritional value to your meal.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the gravy.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn is a great side that brings sweetness to balance savory flavors from the dish.

6. Sauteed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach is nutritious and adds vibrant color to your plate while being easy to prepare.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes works wonderfully alongside savory chicken and gravy.

8. Rice Pilaf
   A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs can elevate your meal with added flavor without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Chicken and Gravy can be a breeze, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly – Skipping this step can result in bland chicken. Always season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.
• Using too high heat – Cooking on high heat may burn the gravy before the chicken is cooked through. Use medium heat for even cooking and a nicely thickened sauce.
• Skipping the resting time – Cutting into chicken right after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Not whisking the broth slowly – Adding broth too quickly can create lumps in your gravy. Gradually whisk in the broth to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Ignoring sauce thickness – If your gravy is too thin, it won’t cling well to the chicken or sides. Allow it to simmer longer until you reach your desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Chicken and Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Easy Chicken and Gravy

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Easy Chicken and Gravy?

You can pair this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Easy Chicken and Gravy thicker?

To thicken your gravy, let it simmer longer on low heat. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water if needed.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even lean beef for variations on this recipe.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Chicken and Gravy?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or serving it over various sides like rice or mashed potatoes. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!