There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm plate of chicken and gravy. This classic home-cooked meal is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or fluffy biscuits, this dish is a staple in Southern and American comfort food traditions.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—a few basic ingredients come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Plus, with different cooking methods available (stovetop, slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot), you can prepare it in the way that best suits your schedule.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect chicken and gravy, from selecting the right cut of chicken to achieving a smooth, flavorful gravy.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is Chicken and Gravy?
Chicken and gravy is a simple yet delicious dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken cooked in a rich, savory gravy made from pan drippings, broth, and seasonings.
Key Characteristics of Chicken and Gravy:
✔ Juicy and flavorful chicken – Slow-cooked or pan-seared for maximum tenderness.
✔ Rich and velvety gravy – Made from scratch with broth, butter, and thickening agents like flour or cornstarch.
✔ Versatile meal – Can be served with potatoes, rice, biscuits, or even pasta.
✔ Comforting and hearty – A perfect dish for cold nights or when you need a satisfying meal.
This dish has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations, often made with bone-in, skin-on chicken for extra flavor. However, it can be easily adapted for boneless, skinless cuts for a quicker meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Wondering why this chicken and gravy recipe is a must-try? Here’s what makes it special:
✅ Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Requires only a handful of pantry staples, yet delivers restaurant-quality taste.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
✅ Versatile Cooking Methods – Can be made on the stovetop, slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot.
✅ Customizable – Add mushrooms, onions, garlic, or spices to make it your own.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on flavor.
Best Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe
The type of chicken you choose can affect the flavor, texture, and cooking time of your dish. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:
1. Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks
✔ Best for: Deep flavor, juiciness, and traditional Southern-style cooking.
✔ Why? The bones and skin add extra moisture and richness to the gravy.
✔ Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes (depending on method).
2. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
✔ Best for: A leaner and quicker-cooking option.
✔ Why? Easier to slice and serve but can dry out if overcooked.
✔ Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (stovetop) or 4-5 hours (slow cooker).
3. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
✔ Best for: A balance between tenderness and ease of cooking.
✔ Why? More forgiving than chicken breasts, as they stay juicy.
✔ Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (stovetop) or 4-5 hours (slow cooker).
🔹 Pro Tip: If using bone-in chicken, consider shredding the meat into the gravy for a pulled chicken-style dish.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy
The beauty of this chicken and gravy recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a rich, flavorful dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
1. Chicken (The Star of the Dish) 🍗
✔ Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks – Adds deep, rich flavor.
✔ Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – A leaner, quicker option.
✔ Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Best for juiciness and tenderness.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
2. Seasonings & Spices 🌿
The key to bold, comforting flavor is the right seasoning mix.
✔ Salt & black pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
✔ Garlic powder & onion powder – Adds depth to both the chicken and gravy.
✔ Paprika – Enhances color and smokiness.
✔ Thyme or rosemary – Fresh or dried herbs for a warm, earthy taste.
✔ Cajun or Italian seasoning (optional) – Adds a unique twist.
🔹 Pro Tip: Season the chicken at least 30 minutes before cooking for better flavor penetration.
3. Fat for Cooking 🍳
✔ Butter – Creates a rich, velvety base for the gravy.
✔ Olive oil – Helps achieve a golden-brown sear on the chicken.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use both butter and oil—oil prevents the butter from burning, while butter adds richness.
4. Broth & Liquid Base 🥣
✔ Chicken broth (or stock) – Forms the base of the gravy; use low sodium for better control over seasoning.
✔ Milk or heavy cream (optional) – For a creamier, Southern-style gravy.
✔ White wine (optional) – Adds a deeper flavor profile.
🔹 Pro Tip: Homemade broth will give your gravy the richest flavor, but store-bought works well too.
5. Thickening Agents for Gravy 🍛
✔ Flour (for a classic roux-based gravy) – Creates a smooth, slightly thick texture.
✔ Cornstarch (for a gluten-free option) – A lighter alternative for a silkier gravy.
🔹 Pro Tip: Mix flour with butter first to make a roux—this prevents lumps in the gravy.
6. Extra Flavor Boosters 🌶️
✔ Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth.
✔ Soy sauce (for a savory boost) – Enhances richness without overpowering.
✔ Mushrooms & onions (optional) – A great addition for texture and extra flavor.
🔹 Pro Tip: Sauté onions and garlic before adding liquid to maximize flavor.
How to Prepare the Chicken for Cooking
Proper preparation is key to ensuring your chicken and gravy turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Follow these steps to get your chicken ready for cooking.
1. Trim and Clean the Chicken
Before cooking, inspect your chicken and remove any unwanted parts:
✔ Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps with even browning.
✔ Trim excess fat or skin if using bone-in cuts.
✔ If using boneless chicken, cut it into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
🔹 Pro Tip: Drying the chicken helps it sear properly and prevents it from steaming instead of browning.
2. Season the Chicken
For maximum flavor, season your chicken in advance:
✔ Generously coat with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
✔ Add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
✔ Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick.
⏳ Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) for deeper flavor. If short on time, even a 10-minute rest allows the seasoning to absorb.
🔹 Pro Tip: A touch of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce can enhance flavor and tenderness.
3. Decide on Cooking Method
Depending on how you want to prepare the dish, you may need to:
✔ Dredge in flour for a crispy stovetop sear (optional).
✔ Leave skin-on for a richer, golden-brown crust.
✔ Sear first, then slow cook for deeper flavor development.
🔹 Pro Tip: If slow cooking, skip searing to save time, or brown the chicken for extra flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
4. Prepare the Pan or Cooking Surface
✔ For stovetop cooking: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
✔ For oven roasting: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
✔ For slow cooker: Lightly grease the pot before adding chicken.
Different Cooking Methods for Chicken and Gravy
One of the best things about chicken and gravy is its versatility—you can prepare it using different cooking methods depending on your time, preference, and available equipment. Below are the four best ways to cook chicken and gravy, each with its own benefits.
1. Stovetop Chicken and Gravy (Quick & Flavorful) 🍳
This is the classic method that delivers rich flavor in less than an hour. It involves searing the chicken first to develop a deep, golden crust, then simmering it in broth and seasonings to create a flavorful gravy.
How to Cook on the Stovetop:
✔ Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
✔ Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side).
✔ Remove the chicken and make a roux by adding flour and broth to the pan.
✔ Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until tender.
✅ Best For: A quick, one-pan meal with rich, homemade gravy.
✅ Time Required: 40-45 minutes.
2. Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy (Set & Forget) 🥘
For a fall-apart tender dish, the slow cooker method is perfect. The chicken absorbs the flavors over several hours, and the gravy becomes thick and rich without much effort.
How to Cook in a Slow Cooker:
✔ Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
✔ Mix chicken broth, garlic, onion powder, and seasonings and pour over the chicken.
✔ Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
✔ Remove chicken and whisk cornstarch or flour into the liquid to thicken the gravy.
✅ Best For: Busy days when you want to prep in advance.
✅ Time Required: 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH.
🔹 Pro Tip: Add mushrooms and onions for extra flavor!
3. Oven-Baked Chicken and Gravy (Tender & Hands-Free) 🍗
Baking chicken in the oven allows for even cooking and requires minimal effort.
How to Cook in the Oven:
✔ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish.
✔ Pour chicken broth and seasonings over the top.
✔ Cover with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender.
✔ Remove foil, baste the chicken, and broil for 5 minutes for a golden finish.
✅ Best For: A hands-off meal that still delivers great flavor.
✅ Time Required: 45-50 minutes.
🔹 Pro Tip: Add a little heavy cream in the last 10 minutes for a creamy gravy.
4. Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy (Fast & Juicy) ⚡
If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot method pressure cooks the chicken in minutes while keeping it incredibly moist.
How to Cook in an Instant Pot:
✔ Select the Sauté mode and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side.
✔ Add broth and seasonings, then lock the lid.
✔ Pressure cook on HIGH for 10-12 minutes (depending on chicken thickness).
✔ Release pressure, remove chicken, and whisk in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy.
✅ Best For: A fast, foolproof method with juicy results.
✅ Time Required: 20-25 minutes.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor when pressure cooking.
Which Method is Best?
| Cooking Method | Texture & Flavor | Time Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | Rich flavor, golden crust | 40-45 min | Quick, one-pan meal |
| Slow Cooker | Fall-apart tender | 6-8 hrs (low) | Meal prepping |
| Oven-Baked | Juicy, evenly cooked | 45-50 min | Hands-free cooking |
| Instant Pot | Super juicy, fast | 20-25 min | Busy weeknights |
No matter which method you choose, you’ll end up with tender, flavorful chicken and rich, savory gravy!
Step-by-Step Classic Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the best cooking methods, let’s dive into the ultimate stovetop chicken and gravy recipe. This method delivers rich, homemade flavor in under an hour, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
✔ 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless chicken breasts)
✔ 1 teaspoon salt
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✔ ½ teaspoon paprika
✔ 2 tablespoons olive oil
✔ 1 tablespoon butter
For the Gravy:
✔ 2 tablespoons butter
✔ 1 small onion, finely chopped
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or 1 tablespoon cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
✔ 1 ½ cups chicken broth
✔ ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
✔ ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy gravy)
✔ Salt & pepper to taste
🔪 Step 1: Season the Chicken
✔ In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
✔ Pat the chicken dry and rub the seasoning all over to coat evenly.
🔹 Pro Tip: Let the chicken sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
🔥 Step 2: Sear the Chicken
✔ Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
✔ Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
✔ Remove the chicken and set aside.
🔹 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to get a crispy crust!
🧅 Step 3: Make the Gravy Base
✔ In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
✔ Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
✔ Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to make a roux.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using cornstarch, mix it with 2 tablespoons of water and add it later instead of making a roux.
🥣 Step 4: Add the Broth & Simmer
✔ Slowly whisk in chicken broth to prevent lumps.
✔ Stir in Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
✔ Bring to a gentle simmer and return the chicken to the skillet.
✔ Cover and let cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using boneless chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to 20 minutes.
🍶 Step 5: Finish the Gravy & Serve
✔ Remove the chicken and set aside.
✔ Stir in heavy cream (if using) and let the gravy simmer for 2 minutes until thickened.
✔ Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
✔ Pour the rich gravy over the chicken and serve!
🔹 Pro Tip: For an extra golden brown finish, place the chicken under the broiler for 5 minutes before serving.
🍽️ What to Serve with Chicken and Gravy?
✔ Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food pairing!
✔ Fluffy Biscuits – Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
✔ Steamed Rice – A lighter option that still works beautifully.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – A side of green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts balances the dish.
How to Make the Perfect Gravy
A rich, silky, and flavorful gravy is what takes this chicken and gravy recipe to the next level. Follow these pro tips to ensure your gravy is smooth, lump-free, and full of depth.
📝 Ingredients for Perfect Gravy
✔ 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and enhances the flavor.
✔ 1 small onion, finely chopped – Builds depth in the gravy.
✔ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or 1 tablespoon cornstarch for gluten-free) – Acts as a thickening agent.
✔ 1 ½ cups chicken broth – The base of the gravy; use low-sodium broth for better control of saltiness.
✔ ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a subtle umami boost.
✔ ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances savory flavors.
✔ ¼ cup heavy cream (optional) – Creates a creamy, Southern-style gravy.
✔ Salt & pepper to taste – Adjust based on preference.
🔄 Step-by-Step: How to Make Lump-Free Gravy
Step 1: Start with a Flavor Base
✔ Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
✔ Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 3 minutes.
✔ Stir in garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
🔹 Pro Tip: Cooking the onions first enhances the overall richness of the gravy.
Step 2: Make a Roux for Thickness
✔ Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the skillet.
✔ Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour turns light golden brown (this removes the raw flour taste).
🔹 Pro Tip: If using cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and set aside—don’t add it yet!
Step 3: Slowly Add the Broth
✔ Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
✔ Add Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of salt & black pepper.
✔ Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using cornstarch, add the cornstarch slurry after the broth and stir until thickened.
Step 4: Make It Extra Creamy (Optional)
✔ For Southern-style creamy gravy, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
✔ Simmer for 1 more minute until fully combined.
🔹 Pro Tip: For an extra smooth texture, strain the gravy before serving.
🐔 How to Fix Common Gravy Problems
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Too thin? | Simmer longer or add more flour/cornstarch slurry. |
| Too thick? | Add a splash of broth or milk. |
| Lumpy? | Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or blend. |
| Too bland? | Add more Worcestershire sauce, salt, or garlic powder. |
FAQs About Chicken and Gravy
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about making chicken and gravy perfectly every time.
1. How do I make my gravy thicker?
✔ Flour Method: Make a roux by whisking 2 tablespoons of flour with butter before adding broth.
✔ Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the simmering gravy.
✔ Simmer Longer: Let the gravy cook for a few extra minutes to naturally reduce and thicken.
🔹 Pro Tip: Add thickening agents gradually to avoid over-thickening.
2. How do I fix lumpy gravy?
✔ Whisk constantly while adding liquid to prevent lumps.
✔ If lumps form, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve.
✔ Blend with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
3. What are the best seasonings for chicken and gravy?
✔ Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall taste.
✔ Garlic & Onion Powder – Adds depth to both the chicken and gravy.
✔ Paprika or Smoked Paprika – Provides a hint of smokiness.
✔ Thyme & Rosemary – Classic herbs for a rich, comforting flavor.
✔ Cajun or Italian Seasoning – For a unique twist.
🔹 Pro Tip: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost!
4. Can I use milk instead of broth for gravy?
Yes! Milk or heavy cream makes the gravy extra creamy and rich.
✔ Use whole milk for a balanced creaminess.
✔ Use heavy cream for a thick, Southern-style gravy.
✔ Mix milk & broth for a lighter yet creamy texture.
5. What can I use instead of flour or cornstarch to thicken my gravy?
✔ Mashed Potatoes – Stir in small amounts for a natural thickener.
✔ Blended Vegetables – Pureed onions or carrots can help thicken while adding flavor.
✔ Arrowroot Powder – A great gluten-free alternative to cornstarch.
6. Can I make chicken and gravy ahead of time?
✔ Yes! Cook everything a day in advance and store in the fridge.
✔ Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
🔹 Pro Tip: Make extra gravy! It thickens as it sits, and reheating with a bit of broth restores the perfect consistency.
7. What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
✔ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
✔ Freeze: Store for up to 3 months (separate the gravy for best results).
✔ Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C).
🔹 Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken dry.
8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
✔ Yes! Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, cover with broth, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
✔ Thicken the gravy at the end using flour or cornstarch slurry.
9. What are the best side dishes for chicken and gravy?
✔ Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate pairing!
✔ Biscuits – Fluffy, buttery, and perfect for dipping.
✔ Rice – A simple yet classic base.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – Adds freshness and balance.
🔹 Pro Tip: Try serving over egg noodles for a delicious twist!
10. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
✔ Yes! Boneless chicken breasts cook faster but can be drier than thighs.
✔ Reduce the cooking time to 20-25 minutes for best results.
✔ If using bone-in breasts, add 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
If you loved this chicken and gravy recipe and want to try something different, check out our Sushi Bake Recipe a delicious and easy-to-make twist on traditional sushi, perfect for sharing!
Conclusion
Chicken and gravy is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a slow cooker, this recipe is easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for family dinners.
By following this guide, you now know:
✅ The best cuts of chicken for flavor and tenderness.
✅ How to make smooth, lump-free gravy every time.
✅ The top cooking methods (stovetop, slow cooker, oven).
✅ Pro tips and common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
✅ Creative variations and serving ideas to make the dish your own.
Now it’s your turn! Grab your ingredients, start cooking, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s packed with rich, savory goodness.
🍽 Bon appétit!