If you’re longing for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to adore this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. It’s a classic that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a luscious meal brimming with rich, velvety gravy and tender chicken that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers that down-home flavor that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.

Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to capture the soul of this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Each element plays a unique role — from the seasoning that boosts flavor to the chicken base that deepens the gravy’s richness.

2 large chicken breasts: Split lengthwise to ensure quick, even cooking and tender pieces that soak up the gravy.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and prevents sticking during cooking.
Kosher salt & black pepper: The perfect balance of seasoning to enhance the chicken and the gravy alike.
3 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky base for the roux and gravy, adding amazing richness.
1 tablespoon chicken base (Better Than Bouillon recommended): Intensifies the chicken flavor for an irresistible gravy.
4 tablespoons all purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to a perfect, luscious consistency.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Offers a mild sweetness and depth without overpowering.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warmth and a subtle kick to the flavour profile.
2 cups chicken stock: The foundation of the gravy’s savory liquid, enhancing taste and moisture.
½ cup water: Helps adjust consistency ensuring the gravy is neither too thick nor too thin.
¼ cup heavy cream (optional): Adds creaminess and finish to the gravy, turning it silky smooth and luxurious.

How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Flour Mixture

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This seasoned flour mix is key to creating a flavorful roux that will thicken your gravy perfectly. Setting it aside now makes the cooking process seamless.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for around five minutes on each side until juicy and reaching 165°F. This step locks in those savory juices and golden color that will complement your gravy. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside—your skillet is now loaded with flavor.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Chicken Base

Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet, stirring it together with the chicken base. This combination forms the flavorful foundation for your gravy right in the pan, absorbing all those delicious browned bits left by the chicken.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle your flour mixture over the melted butter and chicken base in the skillet. Continuously stir to combine and cook for about 30 seconds to one minute. This roux is the magic that thickens the gravy while imparting a nutty, savory note that’s impossible to resist.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Thicken

Slowly pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any flavorful drippings stuck to the pan. Add the water and whisk thoroughly until the gravy is smooth and lump-free. Simmer gently until it thickens to your liking, watching it transform into glossy, rich perfection.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Chicken

Stir in the heavy cream next to elevate the gravy’s silkiness—totally optional but highly recommended for that indulgent feel. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, either shredded or whole, along with any reserved juices. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes so the flavors harmonize beautifully.

Step 7: Adjust, Serve, and Enjoy

Give your gravy a quick taste test and amend with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. After that, your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe is ready to be served hot, inviting you to dive in and savor every comforting bite.

How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor, giving your plate that final touch of rustic elegance.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even warm, crusty garlic bread — these sides effortlessly soak up the rich gravy, making every mouthful heavenly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken sliced over a bed of buttery noodles or nestled beside roasted veggies for a complete, well-rounded meal. For extra comfort, pour the warm gravy over biscuits or creamy polenta and watch it disappear in no time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This makes it perfect for quick reheating without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the gravy and chicken together in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that fresh-from-the-pan taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or cream while warming helps restore the gravy’s smooth consistency and keeps the chicken juicy.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for the recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in breasts can add more flavor to your gravy, but keep in mind they will take a bit longer to cook through than boneless, split breasts. Adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to use chicken base in the gravy?

The chicken base is highly recommended as it concentrates the savory flavor, giving your gravy a deep, rich taste that store-bought stock alone can’t usually match. However, you can substitute with extra chicken stock for a lighter flavor.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply skip the butter and heavy cream, substituting the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine and using coconut milk or another plant-based cream alternative. The gravy will still be hearty and delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the gravy?

Yes, adding finely diced mushrooms, onions, or peas can add extra texture and flavor complexity. Just sauté them after removing the chicken and before making the roux for best results.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy is thinner than you like, mix a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry and whisk it into the simmering gravy until it thickens to your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a classic like this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe that just never gets old. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, warming hearts and stomachs alike. So don’t hesitate to give it a try, and prepare yourself for a comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again.