Chicken and Gravy is one of those timeless dinners everyone loves. Simple, flavorful, and satisfying, this recipe is perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or even on its own. It’s easy to make, reliably delicious, and perfect for family dinners any night of the week.
A bowl of shredded chicken with rich gravy over mashed potatoes, served with garlic bread and peas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Classic: Warm, hearty, and satisfying, just like mom used to make.
- Simple Ingredients: No complicated sauces or hard-to-find items—just chicken, butter, chicken base, flour, and stock.
- Customizable: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted veggies. Add cream for a richer gravy or keep it simple.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat—it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts (split lengthwise) or 4 medium breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt & black pepper
Gravy
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp chicken base (Better Than Bouillon recommended)
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
To Serve
- Mashed potatoes (instant or homemade)
- Peas and garlic bread, optional
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken 5 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
Lower heat to medium-low. Add butter and chicken base to the skillet and melt. Sprinkle in flour, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Whisk in Liquids
Slowly pour in chicken stock and water while whisking. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let simmer until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Add Cream (Optional) & Chicken
If using, pour in heavy cream. Shred the chicken or leave whole, then return it with any collected juices to the gravy. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve
Spoon chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Add peas and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Gravy
- Too thick? Add more broth or water.
- Too thin? Simmer longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (2 tsp cornstarch + 3 tsp water).
- Too salty? Add ½ cup water and simmer briefly.
- Boost flavor: Sprinkle extra onion powder, garlic powder, or a pinch of poultry seasoning.
Storage
- Fridge: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat: Microwave or warm on stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens.
Serving Suggestion: For the ultimate comfort meal, serve this shredded chicken and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes, with peas and garlic bread on the side.
This version keeps your original tips, flavor notes, and instructions but makes it more concise and easier to read, while highlighting the comfort-food appeal.