Introduction

Chicken and gravy is a comforting classic that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. This recipe creates tender chicken breasts swimming in a rich, savory gravy perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or noodles. It’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.

A white bowl held by two hands contains a dish with two visible layers: at the base, a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes in off-white color with a soft, slightly lumpy texture; on top, shredded chicken covered in a rich, light brown gravy dotted with black pepper, giving a speckled look. Two silver forks rest inside the bowl, extending outward. In the background, slices of light brown bread lay stacked on a white marbled surface, alongside a white bowl filled with bright green peas and a small round container with coarse salt. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, split lengthwise into thinner breasts (or 4 medium/small chicken breasts)
1 Tbsp olive oil
Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
3 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp chicken base (we recommend Better Than Bouillon brand)
4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instant Pot mashed potatoes, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside.
Step 2: Lightly season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and chicken base to the pan, stirring until melted.
Step 4: Sprinkle the flour and seasoning mixture into the pan. Stir continuously to form a roux and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute without browning.
Step 5: Gradually pour in the chicken stock while scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Add the water and whisk until smooth and lump-free. Let the gravy simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: If using, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
Step 7: Shred the cooked chicken if preferred, then return it along with any collected juices to the gravy. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to meld flavors.
Step 8: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice with your favorite sides like peas or garlic bread.

Tips & Variations

Do not add extra salt to the gravy as the chicken base and stock provide enough seasoning; taste before adjusting.
For a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer to reduce more liquid or add a little extra flour mixture at the start.
Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to lighten the gravy.
Try adding herbs such as thyme or parsley for a fresh flavor boost.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or stock if the gravy becomes too thick during reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl shows a dish with a base layer of smooth, creamy mashed potatoes in off-white color, topped by a thick layer of light brown chicken and gravy with visible chicken chunks and specks of black pepper. Two silver forks rest inside the bowl on the right side, slightly overlapping. To the upper left, three slices of toasted bread with golden crust and airy texture lay on a wooden board. Above the bowl to the right, there is a white bowl filled with bright green peas, and a small bowl with coarse salt sits further right. Everything is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used but cooking times will be longer. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing from heat. You may want to cook it covered to keep it moist.

What can I serve with chicken and gravy?

This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or even roasted vegetables. Garlic bread and peas make excellent complementary sides for a complete meal.