Chicken gravy is a classic dish that adds a delicious touch to your meals. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or chicken, this simple chicken gravy recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and some straightforward steps, you’ll have a flavorful gravy that will impress your family and friends.
Table of Contents
Ingredients of Chicken Gravy
To make simple chicken gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a splash of heavy cream for extra richness
- Optional: fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley for decoration.
Instructions for Chicken Gravy
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and helps you avoid forgetting anything. Measure out the butter, flour, and chicken broth, and have your salt and pepper ready. If you decide to use heavy cream or herbs, set those aside as well.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until it melts.Make sure not to let it brown; you just want it to be melted and bubbly. Stir it gently to keep it from cooking too quickly.
Step 3: Make a Roux
Once the butter is melted, add the flour to the pan. This mixture of fat and flour is called a roux. Stir the flour into the melted butter using a whisk or a wooden spoon. Cook the roux for approximately 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously. You want it to turn a light golden color and smell slightly nutty. This step helps to eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth
After cooking the roux, it’s time to add the chicken broth. Slowly pour in the broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Simmer the Gravy
Once the broth is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This means you want small bubbles to rise to the surface, but not a rolling boil. Continue to stir the gravy as it simmers. This helps it thicken evenly.
Step 6: Season to Taste
After about 5-7 minutes of simmering, the gravy should begin to thicken.Sample the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you want to add some extra creaminess, you can mix in a splash of heavy cream at this point.
Step 7: Serve Your Gravy
Once your gravy has reached the desired thickness, it’s ready to serve! Pour it over your favorite dishes, like mashed potatoes or roasted chicken. If you want to make it look even more appealing, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top.
Tips for Serving Chicken Gravy
- Pairing: Chicken gravy is perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, or even biscuits. It can also be served with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing a big meal, you can make the gravy ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little more broth if it thickens too much.
- Add Flavor: Consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor. Simply cook them in the butter before adding the flour.
- Store Leftovers: If you have leftover gravy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth instead of chicken broth. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor of the gravy slightly.
2. What can I substitute for flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use cornstarch instead of flour. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the broth after it’s simmered for a few minutes to thicken.
3. How can I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy is too runny, allow it to simmer for a bit longer to help it reduce and thicken.Alternatively, you can make a slurry with cornstarch or additional flour and broth, then stir it in and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Can I freeze chicken gravy?
Yes, you can freeze chicken gravy! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a container that is safe for freezing. It can be kept in the freezer for as long as three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
5. What variations can I try?
Feel free to get creative with your gravy! You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor. For a more gourmet touch, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making simple chicken gravy is not only easy but also a great way to enhance your meals with a homemade touch. This recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of gravy that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Whether it’s a special holiday gathering or a regular family dinner, this chicken gravy will surely impress your loved ones. So, So, get ready to get your hands dirty and give this recipe a go! With a little practice, you’ll be serving up delicious, creamy gravy that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
