Chicken Gravy Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.

It comes together in minutes and doesn’t require complicated techniques.

The texture is smooth and velvety with deep, savory flavor.

It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes.

It’s easy to adjust the thickness and seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth or stock
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Optional:
1/4 cup pan drippings from roasted chicken
1 tablespoon heavy cream for extra richness

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied but not browned.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. This forms a roux and removes the raw flour taste. The mixture should turn lightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. The gravy will begin to thicken within a few minutes.
5. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If using pan drippings, stir them in at this stage for deeper flavor.
6. Continue cooking until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. If it becomes too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
7. For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream just before serving.
8. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 2 cups (approximately 6 servings)

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: Approximately 15–17 minutes

Variations

Use turkey broth instead of chicken broth for a holiday-style gravy.

Add fresh herbs such as thyme, sage, or rosemary for extra aroma.

Stir in sautéed mushrooms for a mushroom chicken gravy variation.

Add a splash of milk for a lighter, creamier texture.

For a darker gravy, allow the roux to cook slightly longer before adding broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.

You can freeze chicken gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and whisk well to restore smoothness.

FAQs

How do I prevent lumps in my gravy?

Whisk continuously while adding the broth slowly to the roux. This ensures a smooth consistency.

Can I make chicken gravy without flour?

Yes, you can use cornstarch as a thickener. Mix it with cold water before adding it to hot broth.

What if my gravy is too thick?

Simply whisk in additional warm broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

What if my gravy is too thin?

Let it simmer longer to reduce, or mix a small amount of flour with water and whisk it in to thicken.

Can I use bouillon instead of broth?

Yes, dissolve bouillon cubes or granules in hot water according to package instructions before using.

Is it necessary to use pan drippings?

No, but they add extra depth and flavor if available.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use oil.

How do I enhance the flavor?

Add fresh herbs, a splash of soy sauce, or a pinch of poultry seasoning for deeper flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and cook as directed.

How long can gravy sit out?

For food safety, do not leave gravy at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Conclusion

This Chicken Gravy recipe is a simple, reliable way to add rich flavor and comforting warmth to your favorite meals. With its smooth texture and savory depth, it’s a versatile staple that belongs in every home cook’s recipe collection. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Chicken Gravy Recipe

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This Chicken Gravy is a rich, smooth, and savory sauce made with simple pantry ingredients, perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, biscuits, rice, or roasted chicken for a comforting finish.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 15–17 minutes
• Yield: 2 cups (about 6 servings)
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth or stock
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup pan drippings from roasted chicken (optional)
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter without browning it.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden to form a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy begins to thicken.
5. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in pan drippings if using.
6. Continue simmering until desired thickness is reached, adjusting with more broth if needed.
7. Stir in heavy cream for extra richness if desired.
8. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

• Whisk continuously when adding broth to prevent lumps.
• If gravy is too thick, add warm broth a little at a time.
• If too thin, simmer longer or add a small flour slurry.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or sage enhance flavor.
• Store refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/3 cup
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg