Chicken with Gravy Recipes | Delicious and Easy Options for Any Occasion

Chicken with gravy is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. There are countless variations of chicken with gravy recipes, each with their own unique flavor and cooking method.

One popular method for making chicken with gravy is to pan-fry the chicken until it is golden brown and then simmer it in a flavorful gravy made from chicken broth, butter, and flour. This method creates a rich and savory dish that is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice. Another popular variation is to bake the chicken in the oven with a creamy mushroom gravy, creating a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to please.

Whether you prefer your chicken with a classic brown gravy or a creamy white sauce, there is a recipe out there for everyone. From simple weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts, chicken with gravy is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Essentials of Chicken with Gravy

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to making chicken with gravy, choosing the right chicken is crucial. It is recommended to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture. The bone adds flavor to the gravy, while the skin helps keep the chicken moist and tender. However, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used if preferred.

It is important to select chicken that is fresh, free from bruises and cuts, and has a good color. When purchasing chicken, make sure to check the expiration date and storage instructions. Always store chicken in the refrigerator at or below 40°F and use within two days of purchase.

Types of Gravy

There are different types of gravy that can be used to complement chicken, including white gravy and brown gravy. White gravy is made with milk or cream and flour, while brown gravy is made from the drippings of the chicken and a roux made with flour and butter.

To make white gravy, melt butter in a pan, add flour and cook for a few minutes until it turns golden brown. Slowly add milk or cream while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

To make brown gravy, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Pour off the excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Add flour to the pan and whisk until it turns golden brown. Slowly add chicken broth while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In summary, when making chicken with gravy, it is important to choose the right chicken and use the appropriate type of gravy to enhance the flavor. By following these essentials, you can make a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Classic Chicken with Gravy Recipes

Chicken with gravy is a classic comfort food that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special event, these classic chicken with gravy recipes are sure to please.

Traditional Roast Chicken with Gravy

Roast chicken with gravy is a classic dish that is easy to make and always delicious. To make this recipe, start by seasoning a whole chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Roast the chicken in the oven until it is cooked through and golden brown.

To make the gravy, remove the chicken from the roasting pan and set it aside to rest. Pour the pan drippings into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Add flour to the pan drippings and whisk until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth to the pan, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Southern Fried Chicken with Gravy

Southern fried chicken with gravy is a classic dish that is sure to please. To make this recipe, start by seasoning chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Dip the chicken pieces in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, then coat them in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper.

Fry the chicken pieces in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. To make the gravy, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. Pour off all but a few tablespoons of the oil from the pan and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth to the pan, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

These classic chicken with gravy recipes are sure to become family favorites. They are easy to make and always delicious, making them perfect for any occasion.

International Variations

Chicken with Gravy from Around the World

Chicken with gravy is a dish that is enjoyed all over the world. Different cultures have their own unique take on the classic recipe, adding their own special ingredients and cooking methods to create a dish that is distinctly their own.

Indian Chicken with Gravy

In India, chicken with gravy is known as chicken curry. The dish is made with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, which are cooked with onions, garlic, and ginger. Tomatoes and cream are added to create a rich and creamy gravy. The dish is usually served with rice or naan bread.

Chinese Chicken with Gravy

In China, chicken with gravy is known as kung pao chicken. The dish is made with diced chicken that is stir-fried with vegetables such as peppers, onions, and carrots. The gravy is made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, which gives it a sweet and sour flavor. The dish is usually served with rice.

French Chicken with Gravy

In France, chicken with gravy is known as poulet au jus. The dish is made with chicken that is braised in a mixture of white wine, chicken broth, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary. The gravy is made by reducing the cooking liquid and adding cream. The dish is usually served with potatoes or rice.

American Chicken with Gravy

In the United States, chicken with gravy is often served with mashed potatoes and is known as chicken and gravy. The dish is made by cooking chicken in a mixture of chicken broth, flour, and milk or cream. The gravy is thick and creamy and is flavored with herbs such as thyme and parsley.

Overall, chicken with gravy is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste. Whether you prefer Indian spices, Chinese flavors, French herbs, or American comfort food, there is a chicken with gravy recipe out there that is perfect for you.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting

Roasting chicken with gravy is a classic cooking technique that yields tender and juicy meat with a crispy skin. To achieve this, the chicken is seasoned with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices, then cooked in the oven at a high temperature. Roasting chicken requires a bit of preparation, but the results are worth it.

To roast a chicken, preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Frying

Frying chicken is another popular cooking technique that produces crispy and flavorful chicken with gravy. To fry chicken, the chicken is coated in flour or breadcrumbs and deep-fried in oil until golden brown. This technique requires a bit more oil and can be a bit messier, but the results are delicious.

To fry chicken, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (177°C). Coat the chicken in flour or breadcrumbs and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Sauce Preparation

The gravy is an essential part of any chicken with gravy recipe. There are several ways to prepare the gravy, but the most common method involves using the drippings from the cooked chicken. To make the gravy, the drippings are mixed with flour or cornstarch and cooked until thickened. Additional seasonings can be added for flavor.

To make the gravy, remove the chicken from the roasting pan or frying pan and set it aside to rest. Pour the drippings into a separate saucepan and heat over medium heat. Add flour or cornstarch to the drippings and whisk until smooth. Cook the mixture until thickened, then season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices. Serve the gravy with the chicken.

Ingredient Alternatives

Gluten-Free Options

For those who are gluten intolerant, there are several alternatives to traditional wheat flour that can be used to make a delicious chicken gravy. Some popular options include rice flour, cornstarch, and tapioca starch. These gluten-free alternatives can be used in the same way as wheat flour to thicken the gravy and add a smooth texture.

To make a gluten-free chicken gravy, simply substitute the wheat flour in your recipe with one of these alternatives. Be sure to check the label of any pre-made gravy mixes, as they may contain wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients.

Vegetarian Substitutes

For those who follow a vegetarian diet, there are several alternatives to chicken that can be used to make a flavorful gravy. One popular option is to use mushrooms, which can add a rich, savory flavor to the gravy. Other options include vegetable broth, soy sauce, and miso paste.

To make a vegetarian chicken gravy, simply substitute the chicken broth or drippings in your recipe with one of these alternatives. Be sure to adjust the seasonings as necessary to maintain the desired flavor profile.

Overall, there are many ingredient alternatives available for those who have dietary restrictions or preferences. By experimenting with different ingredients, you can create a delicious chicken gravy that meets your specific needs.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

Chicken with gravy is a classic comfort food that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to consider:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken and gravy. Consider adding some garlic or herbs to the potatoes for extra flavor.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting for a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are a great way to sop up the delicious gravy. Consider making homemade biscuits or using store-bought ones for a quick and easy side.

Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to serving chicken with gravy. Here are a few tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:

• Use a large platter: A large platter can make your meal look more impressive and give you plenty of space to arrange your chicken and sides.
• Garnish with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and flavor to your dish. Sprinkle them over the chicken and gravy before serving.
• Serve family-style: Serving chicken with gravy family-style can make your meal feel more inviting and encourage everyone to dig in. Place the platter of chicken in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Chicken with gravy is a hearty and filling meal that can be enjoyed by many people. However, it is important to consider the caloric content of this dish. A serving of chicken with gravy typically contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the recipe and portion size.

Macronutrient Breakdown

In addition to calories, it is also important to consider the macronutrient breakdown of chicken with gravy. This dish is a good source of protein, with a typical serving containing around 25-30 grams of protein. However, it is also high in fat and sodium.

To reduce the fat content of chicken with gravy, it is recommended to use skinless chicken breasts and to skim any excess fat from the gravy. Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth and reducing the amount of salt added to the recipe can help to reduce the sodium content of this dish.

Overall, chicken with gravy can be a tasty and satisfying meal, but it is important to enjoy it in moderation and to consider its nutritional content as part of a balanced diet.

Food Safety & Storage

Proper Handling

When preparing chicken with gravy recipes, it is important to ensure proper handling to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other foods to avoid cross-contamination.

When marinating chicken, always do so in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. Discard any leftover marinade that has come in contact with raw chicken.

Refrigeration and Freezing

To ensure the safety of chicken with gravy leftovers, it is important to properly store them. Cooked chicken with gravy should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.

If you are not planning to eat the chicken with gravy within four days, it should be frozen. To freeze, let the chicken with gravy cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.

When reheating chicken with gravy, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria. Avoid reheating chicken with gravy more than once.

By following these proper handling, refrigeration, and freezing guidelines, you can ensure the safety and quality of your chicken with gravy recipes.

Recipe Customization

Spice Variations

One of the great things about chicken with gravy recipes is that they can be easily customized to suit a variety of tastes. One way to do this is by experimenting with different spice combinations. For example, adding cumin and coriander to the gravy can give it a Middle Eastern flavor, while adding chili powder and cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick. Alternatively, using herbs like rosemary and thyme can give the chicken and gravy a more traditional, comforting flavor.

To make it easy to experiment with different spice combinations, consider keeping a few key spices on hand. This can include basic spices like salt and pepper, as well as more specialized spices like smoked paprika or curry powder. By having these spices on hand, it’s easy to add a little extra flavor to any chicken with gravy recipe.

Texture Adjustments

Another way to customize chicken with gravy recipes is by adjusting the texture of the gravy. For example, adding a little cornstarch to the gravy can thicken it up and give it a more velvety texture. Alternatively, adding a splash of cream or milk can make the gravy creamier and richer.

To adjust the texture of the gravy, it’s important to pay attention to the consistency of the gravy as it cooks. If the gravy is too thin, it may need to be simmered for a little longer to reduce and thicken. If the gravy is too thick, it may need to be thinned out with a little extra liquid like chicken broth or water.

Overall, by experimenting with different spice combinations and texture adjustments, it’s easy to customize chicken with gravy recipes to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer your chicken with a little extra spice or a creamier texture, there are plenty of ways to make this classic dish your own.