Quick Chicken and Gravy Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal that comes together in a flash, this Quick Chicken and Gravy Recipe is destined to become your new go-to. Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection swim in a luscious, velvety gravy bursting with comforting flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you need a satisfying dinner without fuss. Plus, it pairs beautifully with classic mashed potatoes for that nostalgic, soul-soothing finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. From the rich butter and olive oil that start the base, to the thyme and poultry seasoning that bring aromatic depth, every item is essential to achieving that perfect balance.

• Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon and 3 tablespoons): Adds a creamy richness that elevates both the chicken and the gravy.
• Extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the onions gently while adding a subtle fruitiness.
• Medium onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and depth when softened, serving as the foundation of flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 lbs., cut into strips or chunks): Lean and tender, they cook quickly and soak up the gravy wonderfully.
• Poultry seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that infuses the chicken with warm, classic taste.
• Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon and 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon and 1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of spice for balance.
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the gravy to that silky, comforting consistency.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (1 1/4 cups): Creates a flavorful, savory base for the gravy.
• Fresh thyme (3/4 teaspoon chopped or 1/4 teaspoon dried): Brings a fragrant herbal note to the dish.
• Nonfat plain Greek yogurt (1-2 tablespoons, or sour cream): Swirled in at the end to create a creamy finish without making it heavy.
• Hot mashed potatoes: The perfect pillow for your quick chicken and luscious gravy.

How to Make Quick Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by warming the butter and olive oil in a large skillet with a lid over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and let them soften until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation your gravy will rest on, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the onions are cooking, take your chicken pieces and sprinkle them evenly with poultry seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper on both sides. This quick seasoning packs a punch and ensures every bite has delicious flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Turn the heat up to medium-high and add your seasoned chicken to the skillet. Allow it to brown beautifully on the first side, about 4-5 minutes, before flipping to brown the other side for 2-3 minutes. This caramelization adds an irresistible richness to the final dish.

Step 4: Set Chicken Aside

Once browned and partially cooked, remove the chicken and onions from the skillet and keep everything warm while you prepare the gravy. Don’t clean the pan just yet — those browned bits are flavor gold!

Step 5: Start the Gravy

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Let it melt gently, picking up all those tasty browned bits left behind.

Step 6: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute. This crucial step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a smooth, golden base for your gravy.

Step 7: Add Broth and Herbs

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps, creating a velvety sauce. Stir in the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper for an herbaceous, well-balanced gravy.

Step 8: Thicken the Gravy

Let the gravy simmer gently over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice it transform into a luscious, slightly thickened sauce that’s just begging to surround your chicken.

Step 9: Return Chicken to Pan

Slide the chicken and onions back into the skillet, stirring carefully to coat each piece in that glorious gravy. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes to finish cooking the chicken through while allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 10: Add Creaminess

Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream if preferred). This adds a creamy tang that balances the seasonings while keeping the gravy light and silky.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the chicken and gravy over a mound of hot mashed potatoes, letting the sauce drizzle down like a cozy blanket. Now sit back and savor every comforting bite of your quick, delicious meal!

How to Serve Quick Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of thyme make wonderful garnishes, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving. A little cracked black pepper on top can always bring the dish to life visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes are the classic choice, but creamy polenta or buttery egg noodles also make fantastic companions to soak up every drop of that rich gravy. For a balanced plate, steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a lovely crunch and brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this quick chicken and gravy recipe as a hearty filling inside warm biscuits or over toasted thick bread for an open-faced sandwich vibe. It’s a comforting, versatile dish that’s perfect to dress up or keep simple depending on your mood.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal that requires minimal effort.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, leave some headspace in the container to allow the gravy to expand. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or curdling. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to preserve the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a couple extra minutes to cook through.

Is Greek yogurt necessary in the gravy?

While not strictly necessary, Greek yogurt adds a wonderful creamy tang and smoothness without weighing down the sauce. You can substitute sour cream or omit it if you prefer a more straightforward gravy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the roux, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. This allows you to enjoy the same rich, comforting dish without any gluten concerns.

How long does it take to make this dish from start to finish?

You can have this delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes total — 5 minutes prep and 20 minutes cook time. It’s perfect when you want something homemade but quick.

What can I serve if I don’t want mashed potatoes?

Try serving the chicken and gravy over creamy polenta, buttered noodles, rice, or even roasted vegetables depending on your preference. Each option soaks up the gravy beautifully and offers a fun way to vary your meal.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Chicken and Gravy Recipe truly captures everything you want in a comforting dinner: simple ingredients, speedy preparation, and irresistibly rich flavors. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but never demands a ton of effort, making it perfect for busy nights or anytime you crave something utterly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortless comfort food can be!

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