Chicken gravy is one of those comforting classics that can elevate any meal, from roasted chicken to mashed potatoes. Making chicken gravy from scratch may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward and rewarding. In this article, I’ll walk you through an easy, foolproof way to make rich, flavorful chicken gravy at home using simple ingredients and basic techniques. Whether you have pan drippings or just chicken broth, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious gravy that tastes far better than any store-bought version.
What You’ll Need for Homemade Chicken Gravy
The beauty of making chicken gravy from scratch is that you only need a handful of pantry staples:
– Butter (or chicken fat if you have drippings)
– All-purpose flour
– Chicken broth or stock (homemade or store-bought)
– Seasonings like salt, pepper, and dried herbs (thyme or sage work wonderfully)
– Optional: heavy cream for a silky finish or mushroom powder for extra umami
If you’ve roasted a chicken, you can also use the pan drippings to add incredible depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Gravy from Scratch
1. Make the Roux
Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of flour to form a smooth paste called a roux. This mixture is the thickening base for your gravy. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden brown. This step is crucial—it develops the nutty, rich flavor that makes gravy so delicious.
2. Add the Liquid
Slowly whisk in warm chicken broth or stock to the roux. Adding the liquid gradually while whisking prevents lumps and ensures a silky texture. If you have pan drippings, you can substitute some of the broth with these for extra flavor. Keep whisking as the mixture begins to thicken.
3. Season Your Gravy
Once your gravy base is smooth and starting to thicken, reduce the heat to low. Add salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or sage. You can also add a pinch of mushroom powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory boost if you like.
4. Simmer and Adjust Consistency
Let the gravy simmer gently, whisking occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. If it becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more broth. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it further with a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water before adding).
5. Optional Creamy Finish
For an extra luscious gravy, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This adds richness and a velvety texture that’s perfect for comfort food meals.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Gravy Every Time
– Don’t rush the roux: Cooking the flour and butter until lightly browned adds flavor and prevents a raw flour taste.
– Whisk constantly: This keeps the gravy smooth and lump-free.
– Use warm broth: Adding warm liquid helps the gravy come together more easily.
– Taste as you go: Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preferences.
– Use pan drippings if possible: They add a depth of flavor that broth alone can’t match.
– Keep warm: If you’re not serving immediately, keep the gravy warm on low heat and whisk occasionally.
What to Serve with Chicken Gravy
Chicken gravy is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:
– Roasted or fried chicken
– Mashed potatoes
– Biscuits or bread rolls
– Rice or stuffing
– Vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots
It’s the perfect finishing touch to any hearty meal.
Chicken gravy from scratch is easier than you think and tastes so much better than canned versions. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful gravy that makes every meal feel special. Give it a try—you’ll never go back to store-bought gravy again!