Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a velvety, homemade gravy—this is the kind of soul-warming dish we all crave. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.
The rich sauce gets its smooth texture from a simple roux and a splash of cream, with Worcestershire sauce adding that perfect umami kick. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttery biscuits for a meal that tastes like a hug in food form.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
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Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Let the gravy simmer for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and creamy.
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Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the gravy over it, and simmer for 2 more minutes.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with mashed potatoes or rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 415 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Classic Comfort Dish with Timeless Appeal
Chicken and gravy is a dish that evokes deep-rooted comfort, nostalgia, and heartwarming family memories. Whether served at a Sunday dinner table or whipped up on a busy weeknight, this meal offers a satisfying balance of tender, pan-seared chicken and a rich, creamy gravy that ties everything together. It’s simple yet elevated, humble yet indulgent.
This recipe, inspired by homestyle cooking traditions, has been thoughtfully crafted to balance ease and flavor, using pantry staples to create something truly special. At its core, this dish is about transforming everyday ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours—yet can be on the table in just over 30 minutes.
What Makes Chicken and Gravy So Irresistible?
The magic of chicken and gravy lies in its balance: crispy golden chicken meets smooth, savory gravy in a harmony of textures and tastes. The chicken is seared until beautifully browned on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. The gravy, made from the flavorful fond left in the skillet, enhances the dish with deep, meaty undertones and a luxurious, velvety finish.
Unlike heavy stews or fried dishes, this recipe manages to deliver that “comfort food” satisfaction without feeling overly rich or greasy. It’s the kind of meal that warms the soul—whether you’re curled up on the couch with a bowl in your lap or gathering around the table with loved ones.
A Meal for All Seasons
Chicken and gravy is versatile enough to enjoy year-round. In the colder months, serve it over a heaping pile of mashed potatoes or fluffy biscuits to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce. In warmer weather, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for balance.
It’s also great for meal prep, as both the chicken and gravy reheat well without losing their texture or flavor. This makes it ideal for batch cooking or saving leftovers for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is its accessibility. It uses ingredients that most people already have on hand—chicken, flour, broth, cream, and a few pantry seasonings. But when combined thoughtfully, these ingredients produce something far greater than the sum of their parts.
The dish also allows room for customization. You can add mushrooms or onions for an earthy twist, fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal touch, or a splash of white wine for a more elevated flavor profile. Yet even in its most basic form, the flavor is rich, complex, and deeply satisfying.
A Nod to Southern Roots and Beyond
While chicken and gravy is often associated with Southern cuisine, its appeal stretches far beyond that regional identity. Versions of this dish can be found across the country—and indeed, across the globe. From creamy chicken fricassee in France to Scandinavian chicken stews, cultures worldwide embrace the concept of tender poultry in a savory sauce.
That said, this version leans into the Southern-inspired comfort that many grew up with. The gravy is thickened with a simple roux and enhanced with Worcestershire sauce for that subtle, smoky depth. It’s the kind of dish you imagine being served in a farmhouse kitchen, accompanied by laughter, conversation, and second helpings.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Chicken and gravy is endlessly versatile when it comes to side dishes. The most popular pairing is, of course, mashed potatoes—the smooth, buttery starch is the perfect vessel for soaking up every bit of sauce. But other great options include:
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Steamed white rice or seasoned brown rice
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Buttermilk biscuits or crusty French bread
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Roasted vegetables (think carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts)
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Creamy polenta or egg noodles
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Cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative
A light side salad with vinaigrette can offer a fresh, acidic contrast to the richness of the gravy, while a glass of crisp white wine or chilled sweet tea rounds out the meal beautifully.
Tips for Making It Even Better
To get the best results from this dish, a few simple techniques go a long way:
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Don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing the chicken in batches if needed ensures it browns evenly instead of steaming.
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Use low-sodium broth. This gives you better control over seasoning and prevents the dish from becoming too salty.
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Let the gravy simmer. After adding the cream, allow the sauce to simmer gently so it thickens to that perfect spoon-coating consistency.
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Taste as you go. Seasoning the gravy at the end ensures the flavor is balanced and just right.
If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain it before adding the chicken back in. On the other hand, leaving in little bits from the searing process adds rustic texture and flavor.
Make It Your Own
One of the joys of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Want to make it dairy-free? Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Looking to make it gluten-free? Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend and make sure your broth is gluten-free as well.
You can also add vegetables directly into the gravy—think sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. And if you like spice, a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can elevate the whole dish.
Why It’s a Must-Have in Your Recipe Repertoire
Chicken and gravy is the kind of dish that checks every box: easy, affordable, filling, and downright delicious. It’s ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, offering a foolproof base with endless room for creativity. It fits just as well into a weeknight dinner rotation as it does on the table during a holiday feast.
It’s also deeply satisfying on an emotional level. There’s something about a creamy gravy over juicy chicken that feels like being taken care of, like coming home. That kind of food connection is powerful—and this recipe delivers it in every bite.
Conclusion: A Comfort Classic That Belongs in Every Kitchen
If you’re looking for a dependable, delicious, and deeply comforting meal that the whole family will love, chicken and gravy is it. It’s not trendy or flashy—but it doesn’t have to be. What it offers instead is honest, homestyle flavor that satisfies every time.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, cooking for guests, or just craving something cozy after a long day, this dish is a go-to. With its simple preparation, rich flavor, and wide appeal, chicken and gravy proves that sometimes the best meals are the ones that feel like home.