chicken and gravy recipe oven
This dish is a favorite in many households due to its delicious taste and simplicity. Chicken and Gravy recipe is versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Chicken and gravy is a timeless dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. It is a popular choice for family meals due to its comforting taste and straightforward preparation.
This dish is full of comforting, home-cooked goodness. One reason why chicken and gravy recipe is so popular is its adaptability. You can use different pieces of chicken – like breasts, thighs, or drumsticks – and mix it with different flavors in the gravy. Whether you prefer classic herbs and spices or a touch of sweetness, this recipe can accommodate a wide variety of tastes.
Best ingredients chicken and gravy recipe
For chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Gravy:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions for Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Season the chicken: Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. It helps in getting glowing skin. On all sides, generously season with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil for frying the chicken. Fry them for about 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crisp. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 5 minutes. – Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it aside in a plate.
Making Gravy:
Prepare the roux: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Sprinkle flour over melted butter. Stir constantly with a whisk or spoon for about 2 minutes to cook the flour and form a smooth paste (roux).
Add the broth: Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes thick and starts boiling.
Season and simmer: Season the gravy with additional salt and pepper to taste. Lower the flame and let the gravy cook slowly for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Return the chicken: Add the roasted chicken to the gravy and return it to the pan. Spoon some gravy over the chicken pieces.
Low heat: Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken cook in the gravy for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the chicken hot, spooning additional gravy over the top. If you would like, garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs.
Benefits of Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Health Benefits of Chicken
Lean Protein Source: An excellent source of lean protein is chicken. The formation and repair of body tissues such as muscles, skin and organs depends on proteins. Additionally, protein promotes satiety and satisfaction after meals, which may help with weight management.
Rich in nutrients: Vital vitamins B6 and B12, which are important for brain health and energy production, are abundant in chicken. It also contains minerals like selenium, which boosts immunity, and phosphorus, which is essential for healthy bones.
Low in saturated fat: Chicken has less saturated fat than red meat like beef or hog. Lean meat, like chicken, can be a heart-healthy choice as eating too much saturated fat can lead to heart disease.
Health Benefits of Homemade Gravy
Low in fat: By removing fat and using less oil or butter, homemade gravies can have less unhealthy fat than store-bought versions.
Controlled sodium: Using low-sodium broth and adding salt to taste allows you to control the amount of sodium in your gravy, which is beneficial for heart health.
Delicious and nutritious: By combining herbs and spices, homemade gravy can be not only delicious, but also rich in antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds.
Pairing chicken with homemade gravy can be a nutritious and delicious meal option. Chicken provides lean protein and essential nutrients, while homemade gravy can be made healthier by using nutritious ingredients and controlling fat and sodium levels.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes:
Mashed Potatoes: A traditional combination is creamy mashed potatoes with chicken and gravy. They are excellent at soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Rice: For a hearty dinner, serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice.
Steamed vegetables: Carrots, green beans and broccoli are great choices. They provide balance and color to the dish.
Fresh herbs: For added freshness, try adding chopped chives or thyme in addition to the parsley.
Lemon Zest: You can improve the taste of chicken by sprinkling lemon zest on it.
Freshly ground black pepper: A small pinch of freshly ground black pepper adds a pleasant flavor.
How to store leftovers chicken and gravy in the fridge
- Once cooked, allow leftover chicken and gravy to cool slightly at room temperature before refrigerating.
- After the meal has cooled, transfer it to a sealed bag or airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated for a duration of 3-4 days.
- Transfer the cooled chicken and gravy to a freezer-safe bag or container to freeze.
- Date the label, then freeze for two to three months maximum.
Before reheating frozen leftovers, let them defrost in the refrigerator for the entire night.
Reheat until completely hot, either in the microwave or on the stovetop.
If the gravy has thickened too much during storage, thin it with a little cream or broth.
I encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Your feedback is valuable.
Find more delicious chicken recipes and cooking tips on my blog. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or need additional assistance.
