Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe That’s Comforting and Foolproof

Bianca

Founder of Red Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links learn more.

After a hectic day, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting pull of homemade chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy. I discovered this easy chicken and gravy recipe during one of those rushed evenings when I craved something hearty but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. What’s incredible is how simple it is to whip up, yet it offers deep, comforting flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering all day. Whether you’re sharing it with family around the table or craving a soul-soothing solo dinner, this dish proves that easy can also be absolutely delicious.

Why choose Easy Chicken and Gravy?

Simplicity at its core: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for busy nights. Comfort food magic: Rich, savory gravy pairs perfectly with tender chicken, delivering warmth in every bite. Versatile appeal: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or bread for a satisfying meal. Time-saving delight: Ready in under an hour without sacrificing flavor. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests with homemade goodness.

Easy Chicken and Gravy Ingredients

For the Chicken and Gravy

Chicken thighs – choose bone-in, skin-on for juicy meat and flavorful gravy.
All-purpose flour – used to thicken the gravy to that perfect, silky consistency.
Chicken broth – homemade or low-sodium store-bought adds rich, savory depth.
Butter – adds a velvety texture and rich flavor to the gravy.
Onion – finely chopped to build a sweet, aromatic base for the gravy.
Garlic cloves – minced for a subtle punch of savory warmth.
Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning the chicken and gravy to taste.

For Serving Suggestions

Mashed potatoes – the classic comfort food companion that soaks up every drop of gravy.
Fresh parsley – chopped and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

This easy chicken and gravy recipe balances simple ingredients that come together to create a soul-satisfying meal anyone can enjoy.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Gravy

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s ready while searing the chicken. This ensures even cooking and that golden skin stays crispy as the dish bakes to perfection.
Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Proper seasoning brings out the savory depth of the meat.
Sear Chicken: Melt butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Place thighs skin-side down and cook 5–7 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crisp.
Sauté Aromatics: Remove chicken and set aside. Lower heat to medium, then add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until onions turn translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the softened onions, stirring constantly for about 1–2 minutes. Watch the mixture turn a light golden hue—that’s your roux thickening perfectly.
Whisk Gravy: Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a silky, gravy-like consistency.
Combine & Bake: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the gravy, skin-side up. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest in the hot gravy off the heat for 5 minutes. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Optional: drizzle extra gravy over potatoes for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Chicken and Gravy

Fridge: Store leftover easy chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, the flavors will remain intact while keeping the chicken moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore that silky gravy texture.
Avoid Refreezing: Once thawed, do not refreeze leftovers to ensure optimal flavor and texture in your easy chicken and gravy.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chicken and Gravy are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can season and sear the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, the roux can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just remember to reheat it gently before whisking in the chicken broth. When you’re ready to serve, combine the chicken and roux in an ovenproof skillet, then bake it as directed in the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy that rich, comforting dish with minimal effort, just as delicious as if prepared fresh!

Easy Chicken and Gravy Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this comforting dish to your taste—let your kitchen adventure begin!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary while simmering the gravy for an aromatic twist that elevates the classic flavor.

There’s something magical about fresh herbs; they breathe life into familiar dishes, creating an inviting aroma that’s hard to resist.

Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with onions for a hearty addition that enhances depth and richness in the gravy.

The umami from the mushrooms complements the chicken beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.

Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an exciting kick that enhances the savory gravy.

A little heat brings a new layer of warmth, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you want to impress your taste buds.

Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream after thickening the gravy for an ultra-rich and luxurious texture.

The creaminess creates a lush gravy that wraps around the chicken like a warm hug, perfect for special occasions.

Veggie Delight: Incorporate frozen peas or diced carrots during the simmering stage for a pop of color and added nutrition.

They not only brighten the dish visually but also create a delightful contrast in texture that makes every forkful enjoyable.

Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime juice in the gravy just before serving for a refreshing brightness that cuts through richness.

Citrus brings a delightful contrast that brightens the overall flavor profile, making each bite feel lighter and more vibrant.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend to create a perfectly thickened gravy without the gluten.

This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy the comfort of chicken and gravy, making it a dish for all.

Stock Swap: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a subtly different flavor that’s equally satisfying.

This variation works surprisingly well, offering a gentle taste that allows the herbs and spices to shine even brighter.

What to Serve with Easy Chicken and Gravy?

Savoring a dish of easy chicken and gravy is just the beginning of a comforting meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side is the ultimate companion, soaking up that rich gravy beautifully for a delightful bite.
Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp-tender texture pairs perfectly with the richness of the gravy, adding a vibrant pop of color and freshness to your plate.
Buttery Biscuit: Fluffy and warm, these biscuits are perfect for mopping up every drop of gravy, enhancing the comforting experience.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and aromatic, this choice provides a delicious contrast to the tender chicken while delivering a garlicky kick.

For a heartier twist, consider pairing with a fresh salad. The crispy greens offer a delightful crunch, balancing out the dish’s rich flavors.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with savory gravy, creating a satisfyingly sweet-and-savory combination.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine elevates the meal, complementing the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy while enhancing the overall dining experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm, spiced apple crisp adds a sweet ending that perfectly contrasts the savory flavors of the main dish.

Expert Tips for Easy Chicken and Gravy

Dry the chicken well: Patting the chicken thighs dry before seasoning prevents steaming, ensuring crispy skin and sealed-in juices for tender meat.
Use bone-in, skin-on thighs: They add flavor and moisture, making your easy chicken and gravy irresistibly rich and juicy.
Whisk broth gradually: Slowly adding chicken broth while whisking prevents lumps, guaranteeing a smooth, silky gravy every time.
Don’t skip resting: Let the chicken rest in the gravy off the heat; this helps keep the meat tender and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F, for perfectly cooked and safe-to-eat results.

Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe?
Look for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with firm, pinkish flesh and no dark spots. The skin should be dry and intact—that crispy golden skin is key to rich flavor and juicy meat in your gravy.

What’s the best way to store leftover Easy Chicken and Gravy?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. This keeps the chicken moist and the gravy flavorful. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze Easy Chicken and Gravy, and if so, how long will it keep?
Absolutely! Freeze your cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the gravy’s silky texture.

What should I do if my gravy turns out lumpy?
Don’t worry, lumps happen! Next time, add the chicken broth gradually while whisking constantly to prevent clumps. If you do get lumps, strain the gravy through a fine sieve or whisk vigorously over low heat until smooth.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
This recipe contains butter and chicken, so it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dairy or poultry allergies. For dairy-free versions, try substituting butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative. And remember: while homemade gravy smells delicious, it’s not for pets—please keep it away from your furry friends!