Quick Chicken and Gravy

This quick chicken and gravy is creamy, comforting, and ready in just 25 minutes using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. It makes an excellent weeknight dinner served over mashed potatoes with plenty of rich, flavorful gravy to soak up every bite.

I first made this on a weeknight when I had little time but wanted something special. Now it has become a go-to comfort food that my family happily requests often.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: for richness and developing flavor in both the chicken and gravy
• Extra virgin olive oil: adds depth and helps brown the chicken beautifully choose a good quality one for best taste
• Medium onion: chopped onions soften and sweeten the base of the dish
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut into strips or chunks tender and cooks quickly
• Poultry seasoning: for classic herb notes that complement chicken well
• Kosher salt and black pepper: to season the chicken and gravy just right
• All-purpose flour: to thicken the gravy use fresh flour for a smooth sauce
• Low-sodium chicken broth: keeps the gravy flavorful without overwhelming saltiness
• Fresh or dried thyme: adds an earthy, subtle herbal touch
• Nonfat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: brings creaminess and a hint of tang without heaviness
• Hot mashed potatoes: to serve as the perfect bed for the chicken and gravy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook slowly for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step builds the foundation for a flavorful sauce.

Cook the Chicken:

Season chicken pieces evenly with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and add the chicken to the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until deeply browned on one side. Flip and brown the other side for 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through on the outside. Remove the chicken and onion mixture from the pan and set aside, keeping warm.

Prepare the Gravy Base:

Reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. This step removes the raw flour taste and helps create a smooth gravy.

Build the Gravy:

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly and becomes silky.

Combine Chicken and Finish Cooking:

Return the chicken and onions to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the gravy. Cover and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.

Add Creaminess:

Take the skillet off the heat and gently stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream. This creates a luscious, creamy texture with a subtle tang that brightens the dish.

Serve:

Spoon the chicken and gravy over hot mashed potatoes and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal.

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I love how adding a bit of Greek yogurt at the end transforms the gravy into something special. It reminds me of cozy family dinners growing up when comfort food was the heart of the meal. The gentle herbal notes from thyme always bring a homemade touch that feels warm and inviting.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the chicken tender and prevent drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs make a juicy alternative for those who prefer darker meat and slightly richer flavor. You can swap sour cream in place of Greek yogurt for a creamier but slightly heavier finish. If you do not have poultry seasoning, combine dried sage, thyme, and rosemary for similar herbal notes.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed potatoes are a classic base, but this chicken and gravy also pairs well with buttered egg noodles, rice, or creamy polenta. A simple side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots adds color and balance to the plate.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra moisture. Ensure they cook thoroughly before serving.

→ What gives the gravy its creaminess?

The creaminess comes from stirring in plain Greek yogurt at the end, which adds a smooth texture without overpowering the flavors.

→ Is fresh thyme necessary for the gravy?

Fresh thyme adds a bright herbal note, but dried thyme can be used as a substitute with similar results.

→ How can I prevent the gravy from lumping?

Whisk the flour and butter thoroughly before adding chicken broth slowly while continuing to whisk. This helps create a smooth sauce.

→ Can leftovers be reheated safely?

Yes, keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 4-5 days and reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to prevent drying out.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Classic mashed potatoes are traditional, soaking up the gravy beautifully, but rice or buttered noodles can also complement the flavors.