Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety gravy. Perfect served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like chicken stock, butter, and flour.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or add cream for your perfect flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts: Split lengthwise to ensure even cooking; you can also use 4 medium chicken breasts for smaller portions.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light sear and enhances flavor.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: For basic seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps form the base of the roux.
- 1 tablespoon chicken base: Intensifies the chicken flavor; can be substituted with bouillon cubes.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder and garlic powder: Add depth and subtle savory notes.
- 2 cups chicken stock: Acts as the main liquid for the gravy, contributing a robust flavor.
- 1/2 cup water: Dilutes the stock slightly for balance.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional): Adds creaminess for a luxurious touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes or rice: To soak up the delicious gravy.
- Steamed peas or roasted vegetables: For added color and nutrition.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This ensures the chicken is seasoned thoroughly and evenly.
- Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The sear creates a golden crust that locks in juices.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet along with the chicken base. Stir until melted and combined.
- Sprinkle the prepared flour mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly to form a roux. Let it cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste and deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
- Slowly pour the chicken stock into the skillet while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add incredible flavor to the gravy.
- Add the water and whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Finish the Gravy
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) for an extra touch of richness. The cream enhances the gravy’s velvety texture.
- Shred the cooked chicken if desired and add it back to the skillet along with any collected juices. Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Pair with a side of peas, roasted carrots, or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Cut Chicken Evenly: Splitting the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness also helps.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in the juices and adds a layer of caramelized flavor. It’s worth the extra step.
- Scrape the Pan: Incorporating the browned bits into the gravy enhances the overall depth of flavor, giving it a homemade touch.
- Control Thickness: Adjust the gravy’s consistency by adding more stock if it’s too thick or simmering longer if it’s too thin.
- Taste as You Go: The chicken base and stock provide salt, so taste the gravy before adding extra seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is versatile and pairs well with various sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing for a comforting, hearty meal. For a twist, try garlic or Parmesan mashed potatoes.
- Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy gravy, especially with fluffy white or brown rice. Jasmine or basmati rice adds a fragrant touch.
- Vegetables: Steamed peas, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach add color, nutrition, and balance to the rich dish.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken and gravy over egg noodles or fettuccine for a comforting pasta dinner.
- Bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread or a warm dinner roll is perfect for mopping up every last bit of gravy. Consider sourdough for a tangy complement.
Variations
Creamier Gravy
- Double the heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce that feels indulgent and luxurious. Perfect for special occasions or when you want a decadent meal.
Herb-Infused Gravy
- Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the gravy for a fragrant, herby twist. These herbs pair beautifully with chicken and elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Spicy Kick
- Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This variation adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish’s creamy richness.
Mushroom Gravy
- Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter before making the roux. This adds an earthy depth to the gravy and pairs well with the tender chicken.
Dairy-Free Option
- Replace the butter with olive oil and the cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. This makes the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional Highlights
- High Protein: Excellent for muscle repair and overall energy. The lean chicken provides a substantial protein boost.
- Moderate Fat: The balance of butter and cream provides flavor without being overly heavy.
- Customizable: Adjust the cream and butter to fit your dietary needs. For a lighter option, use low-fat milk or omit the cream.
FAQs
What Is in Heinz Homestyle Chicken Gravy?
Heinz Homestyle Chicken Gravy typically contains chicken broth, flour or cornstarch for thickening, and seasonings such as onion and garlic powder. It’s a convenient store-bought option but lacks the depth of flavor found in homemade versions.
What Is Homestyle Chicken?
Homestyle chicken refers to dishes prepared with simple, wholesome ingredients reminiscent of traditional home cooking. These dishes often emphasize comfort and hearty flavors, like this recipe.
What Is the KFC Gravy Made Of?
KFC gravy is made from a combination of their fried chicken drippings, flour, and water, seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices. It’s rich, savory, and pairs perfectly with their mashed potatoes.
What Is the Secret Ingredient for Good Gravy?
The secret to great gravy lies in the pan drippings. These browned bits add depth and richness. Using high-quality stock or broth and a well-made roux also contributes to a velvety texture and balanced flavor.
Conclusion
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Its rich, savory flavors and simple preparation make it a must-have recipe in your repertoire. Try it tonight and savor the warmth of this classic dish!