Chicken with Gravy: A Collection of Irresistible Recipes
Are you craving a comforting, classic dish that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than chicken with gravy! This versatile meal is a staple in countless kitchens worldwide, and for good reason. Whether you prefer a simple weeknight dinner or a more elaborate Sunday feast, chicken with gravy offers endless possibilities for customization and culinary creativity. This post explores several delectable chicken with gravy recipes, perfect for satisfying any craving.
Classic Roast Chicken with Pan Gravy
This recipe is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, flavorful gravy, made directly from the pan drippings, elevates the simple roast chicken to a truly special meal.
Ingredients:
- One whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and rub it with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan, and surround it with the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- While the chicken rests, pour off excess fat from the roasting pan.
- Place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the broth to a simmer and cook until it has slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve the carved chicken with the delicious pan gravy.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken with Gravy
Elevate your chicken and gravy game with this creamy mushroom variation. Earthy mushrooms and a rich, creamy sauce create a luxurious dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on all sides.
- Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the chicken and mushrooms, stirring to coat.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and parsley.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Gravy
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning chicken, work in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of your gravy will be significantly impacted by the quality of your broth.
- Adjust the thickness: If your gravy is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes. If it's too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- Get creative with your vegetables: Add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to your gravy for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it ahead: Gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own signature chicken and gravy recipe. Enjoy!