If you’re in the mood for a comforting, soul-soothing meal that tastes just like something your grandma would serve on a Sunday evening, then look no further than Homestyle Chicken and Gravy. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious, velvety gravy that oozes nostalgia and warmth, perfect for making any night feel extra special. With humble yet flavorful ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll soon have a skillet full of golden-brown chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy—ready to be devoured over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. Trust me, this is one dish you’ll reach for again and again.

Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Homestyle Chicken and Gravy lies in its simplicity—every ingredient brings something essential to the table, be it flavor, texture, or that signature golden hue. Keep this list handy as your flavor roadmap!

Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless for the fastest cooking and most tender results—thighs work too for extra juiciness!
Salt: Just the right touch to amplify all those savory notes.
Black pepper: Offers a warming kick that balances out the richness of the gravy.
Garlic powder: Adds depth to the chicken without overpowering your tastebuds.
Onion powder: A quiet hero bringing subtle sweetness and complexity.
Olive oil: Ensures the chicken gets that irresistible golden crust during searing.
Butter: Infuses the gravy with a creamy, almost luxurious flavor.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to just the right consistency, making it ideal for spooning over everything.
Chicken broth: The foundation of the gravy, lending savory depth and moisture.
Whole milk: Makes the gravy luscious and smooth without being too heavy.
Dried thyme (optional): Brings a gentle herbal note that pairs beautifully with chicken, but skip if you prefer classic simplicity.
Fresh parsley (optional): Perfect for a pop of leafy green color and a hint of brightness at the end.

How to Make Homestyle Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this little step helps them brown beautifully. Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be generous and even, since this is your chance to infuse the meat with lots of flavor right from the get-go.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet set over medium heat, swirl in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add your seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side until they’re gorgeously golden and cooked all the way through—about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—it’s okay if it rests a bit while you work on the gravy!

Step 3: Build the Gravy Base

No need to clean the skillet; those little golden bits left behind are absolute flavor gold! Drop in the butter and let it melt, then sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until everything turns a pale golden color and smells a bit nutty, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Whisk in the Liquids

Now comes the fun part! While whisking, pour the chicken broth in slowly to avoid any lumps, then add the whole milk. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth. This is the base for your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy, and you’ll see it come together into a creamy, savory sauce.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Add the dried thyme at this stage if you’re using it. Let the gravy gently bubble over medium heat for about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until it thickens to your liking. Season to taste—a pinch more salt or pepper if needed—and take a moment to enjoy that delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece into the bubbling gravy. Spoon some of that thickened sauce right over the top, then simmer everything together for 2 to 3 more minutes so the chicken is heated through and flavored by the gravy. Sprinkle chopped parsley over for a finishing touch if you like. The Homestyle Chicken and Gravy is now ready to steal the show at your table!

How to Serve Homestyle Chicken and Gravy

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley always brightens up the plate, but you can also use chopped chives or even a dusting of smoked paprika for a little color and a hint of earthiness. Don’t underestimate the power of a pretty finish—it makes every bite feel special!

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are unbeatable for soaking up every drop of this incredible gravy, but don’t stop there. Egg noodles, creamy polenta, or even crusty bread work beautifully. For a bit of freshness, crisp green beans or sautéed spinach create a perfect balance on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using this Homestyle Chicken and Gravy as an open-faced sandwich over thickly sliced toast or biscuits for a down-home twist. For family-style serving, slice the chicken before returning it to the gravy and let everyone scoop up their favorite portion. Or, shred the chicken right into the gravy and serve over baked potatoes for the ultimate cozy meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the Homestyle Chicken and Gravy has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll keep well for up to three days, staying tender and just as flavorful as when you first made it.

Freezing

If you want to make this dish ahead or save some for a busy weeknight, you’re in luck! The whole dish (chicken and gravy together) freezes well. Let everything cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently warm your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the gravy if needed. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring halfway through, until heated evenly all the way through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative and will make your Homestyle Chicken and Gravy even more juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.

What should I do if my gravy is too thin?

If your gravy isn’t thickening up the way you’d like, mix a teaspoon of flour with a couple of tablespoons of cold broth or milk to make a slurry, then whisk it into the skillet and simmer for an extra minute or two—it’ll thicken right up!

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk, like almond or oat. The result may be a bit lighter, but still absolutely delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and double-check that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I add for extra flavor?

If you like a little extra oomph, try sautéing a handful of diced mushrooms or a small sliced onion after removing the chicken and before adding the butter and flour. You can also stir in a splash of white wine or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something wholesome, hearty, and guaranteed to please a crowd, make a skillet of Homestyle Chicken and Gravy tonight. It’s the definition of comfort food and a staple you’ll want to cook again and again. Gather around the table, grab a spoon, and enjoy every last savory bite!

Homestyle Chicken and Gravy Recipe

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4.7 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with this homestyle chicken and gravy recipe. Tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, savory gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons olive oil

Gravy:

2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the gravy: Melt butter in the skillet, whisk in flour, then slowly add chicken broth and milk. Simmer and thicken the gravy.
Finish the dish: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon gravy over the top, and simmer to reheat. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.