Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Craving comfort food? Nothing beats a classic Chicken and Gravy dish. With tender, juicy chicken and a rich, flavorful gravy, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s hearty, simple, and full of flavors that warm the soul. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Place the chicken, skin-side down, in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy. Focus on achieving a golden crust while sealing in the juices. After searing, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onions. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic release its aroma. These aromatics will be the base of your gravy.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Dust the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring it constantly.. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux and to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. The sauce will begin to thicken as it simmers. Stir in the milk or cream, and add the dried thyme if you like a hint of herbs in your gravy.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the gravy for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Make sure to occasionally spoon the gravy over the chicken to keep it moist and infused with flavor.
Step 5: Serve
When the chicken reaches full doneness, take it off the heat immediately. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the gravy to thicken further. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Benefits of Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Chicken and Gravy not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several health benefits. The ingredients in this dish provide a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it both delicious and nourishing.
High Protein Content
The chicken is the star of this dish, offering a rich source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, tissue health, and overall body maintenance. Whether you choose thighs or breasts, you’ll get a lean source of protein that keeps you full and energized throughout the day.
Immune-Boosting Ingredients
Onions and garlic are more than just flavor enhancers. They contain compounds that support your immune system, helping your body fight off infections. Garlic, in particular, has been used for centuries for its immune-boosting properties, while onions are packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
Bone Health
This recipe includes whole milk or cream in the gravy, adding a good amount of calcium to the dish. Calcium plays a critical role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, making this meal beneficial for individuals of all ages. If you’re looking to boost your calcium intake, this creamy gravy will get you there in the most delicious way.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil, used to sear the chicken, is a healthy source of fat. It contains monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Incorporating olive oil into your cooking not only adds flavor but also provides long-term health benefits.
Comfort Without Excess Calories
This recipe delivers comfort without excess calories. Unlike deep-fried chicken, this version sears the chicken to create a crispy skin without added fats from frying. The gravy, made from chicken broth, milk, and a small amount of flour, is light yet full of flavor, allowing you to enjoy the richness without the guilt.
Supports Weight Management
Protein-rich meals like Chicken and Gravy help with weight management. Protein increases satiety, meaning you feel fuller for longer. This can prevent overeating and help you maintain a healthy weight while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Easy to Adapt for Different Diets
If you’re following a specific diet, this recipe is easy to adjust. For a lower-carb option, you can use almond flour instead of regular flour to thicken the gravy. If you’re dairy-free, swap out the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or coconut milk. No matter your dietary preference, you can make small tweaks to enjoy this meal guilt-free.
Versatile and Family-Friendly
One of the biggest benefits of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, Chicken and Gravy is a crowd-pleaser. You can serve it over mashed potatoes for a classic combination, pair it with steamed veggies for a lighter option, or spoon it over rice or pasta for a twist. Its versatility means you can change it up depending on what you have on hand, making it a reliable go-to meal on busy nights.
This Chicken and Gravy recipe brings comfort, flavor, and nutrition to your table. Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, it’s the perfect choice. Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and rich flavors make this recipe a winner in any kitchen.
Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this wholesome meal, knowing it benefits both your health and your taste buds!
Here’s a beautifully plated dish of Chicken and Gravy, showcasing tender chicken served with rich, golden gravy. Enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious, offering high protein, heart-healthy fats, and immune-boosting ingredients. Perfect for a cozy dinner!