Quick & Simple Chicken Gravy Recipe: Homemade Flavor in Minutes
Easy Homemade Chicken Gravy Recipe
There’s nothing quite like homemade gravy to elevate your meal from good to extraordinary. This simple chicken gravy recipe transforms ordinary pan drippings into a rich, savory sauce that will make your dinner guests ask for seconds!
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Why This Chicken Gravy Recipe Works
Making gravy from scratch might seem intimidating, but this foolproof recipe breaks it down into simple steps anyone can master. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick preparation – Ready in just 15 minutes
- Budget-friendly – Uses ingredients you already have
- Versatile – Perfect with roasted chicken, turkey, or mashed potatoes
- No waste – Utilizes flavorful drippings that would otherwise be discarded
Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Gravy
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken pan drippings (or substitute chicken broth)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fat separator (optional but helpful)
How to Make Homemade Chicken Gravy
- Gather your ingredients and have them ready at your cooking station.
- If using pan drippings from roasted chicken, pour them into a fat separator or let them sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top.
- In a medium saucepan or skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the separated fat (or butter if you don’t have enough fat).
- Heat over medium heat until hot, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Cook the flour mixture for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly until it turns golden and smells slightly nutty.
- Slowly pour in the chicken drippings (or broth) while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue cooking and whisking for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional poultry seasoning to taste.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a little chicken broth or water.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Gravy
- Prevent lumps: Add liquid gradually while whisking constantly.
- Enhance flavor: For deeper flavor, add a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce.
- Make ahead: Prepare gravy up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing: This gravy freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Common Gravy Troubleshooting
Too Thick?
Simply add more broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Too Thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it into your simmering gravy to thicken.
Lumpy Gravy?
Pour through a fine-mesh sieve or blend with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken gravy pairs perfectly with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Buttery biscuits
- Yorkshire puddings
- Stuffing or dressing
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this delicious homemade gravy contains approximately:
- Calories: 65 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 111mg
Variations to Try
- Herb-Infused Gravy: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for an aromatic twist.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end for a luxurious finish.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté 1/2 cup of finely chopped mushrooms before adding the flour.
- Onion Gravy: Cook 1/4 cup minced onions until caramelized, then proceed with the recipe.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious homemade gravy that will have everyone at your table asking for the recipe!
Easy Homemade Chicken Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Gather your ingredients and have them ready at your cooking station.
- If using pan drippings from roasted chicken, pour them into a fat separator or let them sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top.
- In a medium saucepan or skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the separated fat (or butter if you don't have enough fat).
- Heat over medium heat until hot, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Cook the flour mixture for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly until it turns golden and smells slightly nutty.
- Slowly pour in the chicken drippings (or broth) while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue cooking and whisking for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional poultry seasoning to taste.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a little chicken broth or water.
