Easy Chicken and Gravy

Easy Chicken and Gravy: A Comforting Classic for Any Night of the Week

Looking for a simple and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family? Look no further than our Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe! With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, including variations for keto and low-carb diets, cook notes, frequently asked questions, and more.

Ingredients:

Let’s start by gathering the ingredients needed to make this cozy dish:

• Meat:
  • 1 lb Chicken breasts
• Canned Goods:
  • 2 cups Chicken broth
• Baking & Spices:
  • 3 tbsp Flour
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
• Dairy:
  • 3 tbsp Butter

Instructions:

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. Prepare Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with paprika and salt on both sides. This will add flavor to the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it begins to brown slightly.
4. Add Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve: Once the gravy has thickened, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the gravy. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

To make this dish even more flavorful and adaptable, consider the following tips and variations:

• Add Onions: For added flavor, sauté finely diced onions in the skillet before cooking the chicken. This will add a delicious depth of flavor to the gravy.
• Herb Infusion: Infuse the gravy with your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder, for an extra layer of flavor.
• Creamy Variation: For a creamier gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking. This will add richness and creaminess to the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some adjustments you can make to the recipe:

Keto Version:

• Thicken with Xanthan Gum: Instead of flour, use xanthan gum as a thickening agent for the gravy. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until the desired consistency is reached.
• Serve with Cauliflower Mash: Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for creamy cauliflower mash as a low-carb alternative. It’s just as delicious and pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and gravy.

Low-Carb Version:

• Almond Flour Substitute: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour to reduce the carb content of the gravy. Almond flour adds thickness and richness to the gravy without the extra carbs.
• Zucchini Noodles: Serve the chicken and gravy over spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice for a low-carb option. Zucchini noodles are a nutritious and flavorful alternative that complements the dish perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Now, let’s address some common questions that may arise when preparing this recipe:

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used interchangeably with chicken breasts in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Our Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or just looking for a comforting meal to enjoy, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and savor the delicious flavors of tender chicken and savory gravy. Your taste buds will thank you!

So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of this cozy dish tonight and treat yourself to a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.