If you are craving that cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken seared to perfection and a rich, velvety gravy that is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests without hours in the kitchen, this dish checks all the boxes while delivering a soul-satisfying experience in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe lies not only in its heartwarming taste but also in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fragrant garlic and onion powders that deepen the flavor, to the creamy finish that brings everything together in silky harmony.
- 2 chicken breasts, split lengthwise into thinner pieces: Ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 1 tablespoon chicken base: Packs umami and intensifies the chicken flavor in the gravy.
- 2 cups chicken stock: The liquid foundation for your gravy, adding moisture and richness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but vital aromatic bite.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Balances the garlic and creates depth.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The thickening agent that gives the gravy its luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing chicken to that golden-brown crust.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Enriches the gravy and provides a silky mouthfeel.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and roundness to the gravy’s flavor profile.
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.
- Instant mashed potatoes, for serving: The ideal cozy base to soak up all the heavenly gravy.
How to Make Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your split chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat creates the perfect surface for searing. Cook each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken’s surface is beautifully golden and slightly crispy. This step locks in the juices, making the meat juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
After removing the chicken, use the same skillet to retain all those lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom. Melt butter over medium heat, then add garlic powder and onion powder to release their aromas without overwhelming the dish. Whisk in the flour until you have a smooth roux — this is your gravy’s base. Slowly pour in chicken stock mixed with chicken base, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until thickened, then stir in heavy cream for that creamy, luxurious finish. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return your seared chicken to the skillet and gently coat each piece with the rich gravy. Let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked while soaking up all those great flavors. This melding step is what transforms simple ingredients into a soulful, comforting meal.
How to Serve Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top adds not just a vibrant pop of green but a fresh contrast that brightens the rich gravy. A dash of cracked black pepper right before serving can awaken the dish’s savory notes even more.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe naturally pairs with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every last bit of gravy, but it’s also wonderful alongside rice or buttery biscuits. For a complete meal, add a side of sautéed green beans or roasted carrots for color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic family-style feast, serve the chicken and gravy directly from the skillet to the table, letting everyone help themselves. Or, create a plated presentation by layering the chicken atop a bed of mashed potatoes, then drizzle extra gravy before adding a garnish. Mini ramekins of additional gravy on the side add a restaurant-worthy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a great dish for next-day meals.
Freezing
This Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the gravy is too thick. Stir often to prevent sticking and maintain the creamy consistency, heating just until the chicken is warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts work well for quick cooking, chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy without compromising texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the gravy will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can provide a nice texture and subtle sweetness.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
This Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe is mild and comforting by nature, but feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce if you like some heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken and chicken stock for hearty mushrooms and vegetable stock, and use a plant-based butter and cream alternative. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dependable, soul-warming dish that is straightforward to prepare yet delivers big on flavor, the Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe is your new go-to. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special every time. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it!
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Chicken and Gravy Stovetop Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Chicken and Gravy recipe features tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, flavorful homemade gravy. Perfectly seasoned and cooked on the stovetop, it’s an ideal meal served over instant mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, split lengthwise into thinner pieces
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Gravy
- 1 tablespoon chicken base
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Serving
- Instant mashed potatoes, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in garlic powder and onion powder to release their aromas. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while whisking continuously to form a smooth roux without lumps, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Liquids and Chicken Base: Slowly whisk in the chicken stock and chicken base, ensuring the mixture stays smooth and free of lumps. Continue stirring as the gravy begins to thicken, simmering for 3-4 minutes.
- Finish the Gravy: Stir in the heavy cream, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
- Combine Chicken and Gravy: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the creamy gravy. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes to ensure it is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Plate the chicken with a generous amount of gravy over instant mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a satisfying meal experience.
Notes
- To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender, split the breasts lengthwise into thinner pieces.
- Whisking continuously when making the roux and adding liquids helps prevent lumps in the gravy.
- Adjust seasoning after adding cream to balance the flavors perfectly.
- If you prefer, you can use homemade mashed potatoes instead of instant for a fresher taste.
- This dish can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
