Few meals feel as satisfying and simple as chicken and gravy. With just one skillet and everyday pantry ingredients, this dish delivers all the warmth of a homemade dinner—without taking hours in the kitchen.
This Quick & Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is made for busy nights when you want real food fast. No shortcuts with canned soups or artificial flavors—just juicy seared chicken simmered in a smooth, savory gravy that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between speed, flavor, and satisfaction.
What makes it special? It uses just a handful of ingredients you likely already have. There’s no breading, no oven, no fuss—just straightforward cooking that works every time. And because it’s all done in one pan, cleanup is just as easy as the prep.
Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits, this skillet chicken and gravy is a timeless dinner staple that never disappoints. It’s hearty enough for Sunday dinner, but easy enough for Tuesday night.
Key Benefits
1. One-Skillet Simplicity
This Quick & Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe is made entirely in one pan, saving you time, space, and cleanup. There’s no need for complicated kitchen tools—just a skillet and a stove.
2. Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Quick doesn’t mean flavorless. With just a few steps, you’ll have a deeply savory meal ready faster than takeout. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.
3. Made with Everyday Ingredients
You likely already have everything you need: chicken, flour, butter, broth, and basic seasonings. No canned soup or processed shortcuts—just real, whole ingredients that taste like comfort.
4. Hearty and Satisfying
The rich gravy paired with tender chicken creates a meal that’s both warming and filling. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent without requiring extra effort.
5. Adaptable for Any Diet
Choose chicken breasts or thighs, dairy or non-dairy, low-sodium broth or full flavor. This recipe is flexible, making it easy to suit your preferences and pantry.
6. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
Mild, creamy, and savory—this dish wins over kids, adults, and anyone who loves classic comfort food. It’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients to deliver rich, savory flavor in every bite. Each component plays a key role in building a creamy, homemade gravy and juicy, well-seasoned chicken.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
For the Gravy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce for added depth
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: Boneless skinless thighs give more flavor, while breasts stay lean. Both work well in this recipe.
- Butter & Flour: These form a simple roux, the base for the gravy’s thickness.
- Broth: Choose low-sodium so you can control the salt level.
- Cream: Adds richness. If using milk, the gravy will be slightly thinner but still delicious.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Optional but enhances the umami flavor in the gravy.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a flavorful Quick & Easy Chicken and Gravy dinner in just one skillet.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better in the pan.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and melt the butter.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
The roux should turn light golden but not dark brown.
Step 4: Build the Gravy
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the heavy cream.
Let the gravy simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce if using.
Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken
Return the seared chicken and its juices to the skillet.
Spoon the gravy over the top and reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes.
Serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, white rice, or fresh biscuits.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet chicken and gravy is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with a wide range of comforting side dishes. Here are some tried-and-true serving ideas to make the meal complete.
Classic Pairings
Mashed Potatoes
This is the go-to side. The creamy potatoes soak up the gravy perfectly and balance the richness of the dish.
Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice
Rice acts as a neutral base and holds up well under the thick, savory gravy. It’s also great for soaking up every last drop.
Homestyle Biscuits
Split a warm biscuit and pour gravy and chicken over the top. It’s a comforting, Southern-inspired meal that feels like Sunday dinner.
Vegetable Sides
Green Beans or Asparagus
Lightly steamed or roasted, green veggies add color and freshness that balance out the dish’s richness.
Roasted Carrots or Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized vegetables bring a hint of sweetness that complements the savory gravy.
Side Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy main course.
Hearty Additions
Egg Noodles
Toss wide egg noodles with a bit of butter or olive oil, then top with chicken and gravy for a cozy, filling plate.
Stuffing or Dressing
For a holiday-style twist, serve the chicken and gravy over stuffing. It adds extra herbs and texture to the plate.
Crusty Bread
Perfect for mopping up gravy, a slice of warm sourdough or French bread keeps the meal simple but satisfying.
Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Chicken and Gravy recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits, this dish delivers the satisfying warmth we all crave.
The best part? It’s completely customizable. From swapping chicken for pork to making it dairy-free, you have the flexibility to adapt it to your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, the one-pan cooking method ensures easy cleanup, making this recipe as convenient as it is delicious.
So the next time you’re in need of a quick, comforting meal, this skillet chicken and gravy will become your go-to. It’s easy, it’s tasty, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent choice for this recipe. They have more fat and connective tissue, which makes them richer in flavor and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Use plant-based butter to replace the regular butter, and the result will be just as creamy and delicious.
3. Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Season the chicken and store it in the fridge, and make the gravy ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, sear the chicken and reheat the gravy for a quick finish.
4. What should I serve with chicken and gravy?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits pair beautifully with this dish. For a lighter option, serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
5. Can I freeze leftover chicken and gravy?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and gravy. Place the chicken and gravy in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently on the stove, adding a little more broth or cream if needed to restore the gravy’s consistency.
6. How do I thicken my gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy is too thin, simply whisk in a little more flour to thicken it. Start with 1 teaspoon of flour mixed into a bit of cold broth, then slowly stir it into the simmering gravy. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken.4
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 40g
Categorize the Recipe
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (can be adjusted), Dairy-Free (with substitutions)
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Keyword: Quick & Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Skill Level: Easy
“If you love simple comfort food, try our 5-Ingredient Taco Soup next—it’s packed with flavor and just as easy.”
“Always ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, according to the USDA guidelines.”