When you crave comfort food, nothing feels cozier than Homestyle Chicken and Gravy. A whole chicken, golden and tender, rests in a pool of creamy, savory gravy that smells as good as it tastes. This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for family meals chicken nights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- One-pot cooking makes cleanup easy.
- The whole roasted chicken gives richer flavor than quick skillet versions.
- Perfect for family gatherings, gravy dinner ideas, or the best meals to take to someone.
Ingredients
These basic ingredients work together to create rich flavor and a hearty meal.
- Whole chicken: the star of the dish, juicy and tender when cooked in gravy.
- Butter: melts into the pan, creating a base for smooth sauce.
- Flour: thickens the broth into creamy gravy.
- Chicken broth: adds deep savory flavor.
- Milk or cream: makes the gravy silky and indulgent.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: easy seasoning for layers of flavor.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme): bring aroma and brighten the gravy.
- Salt and pepper: balance everything to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry, then season inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Melt butter in a large oven-safe pot, then brown the chicken on all sides until golden.
- Remove the chicken, stir in flour, and cook for one minute until smooth and golden.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until the gravy thickens.
- Add fresh rosemary and thyme, then place the chicken back into the pot, breast side up.
- Cover and roast in the oven until the chicken is cooked through, then serve smothered in the creamy gravy.
Mistakes To Avoid
- Do not skip drying the chicken: moisture prevents a crispy golden skin.
- Avoid rushing the roux: undercooked flour will give the gravy a raw taste.
- Do not forget to season: tasting the gravy before serving ensures balanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or biscuits to soak up the gravy. It also goes well alongside smothered chicken and rice for an easy southern meal. Leftovers make great quick and easy chicken dinner recipe ideas for the next day.
Homestyle Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients
- – 1 whole chicken about 4 lbs
- – 4 tbsp butter
- – 4 tbsp flour
- – 3 cups chicken broth
- – 1 cup milk or cream
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp onion powder
- – 2 sprigs rosemary
- – 2 sprigs thyme
- – Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Melt butter in a large oven-safe pot, brown chicken on all sides.
- Remove chicken, stir in flour, and cook until golden.
- Whisk in broth and milk until gravy thickens.
- Add herbs, return chicken to pot, breast side up.
- Cover and roast at 375°F for 60 to 75 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temp.
Notes
- Dry chicken well for crispy skin.
- Swap cream for milk for a lighter version.
- Add carrots and onions to the pot for extra flavor.
- Leftovers store up to 3 days in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, chicken and gravy instant pot style is possible. Use sauté mode to brown the chicken, add broth and herbs, then cook under pressure for about 25 minutes. Finish with cream and flour slurry to thicken.
Can I swap the whole chicken for canned chicken?
If you are pressed for time, canned chicken dinner recipes can work. While you will not get the crispy golden skin, you can gently heat canned chicken in the prepared gravy for a quick fix.
Is this a good meal for sharing?
Absolutely. A whole chicken with rich gravy is one of the best meals to take to someone. It reheats beautifully and stays flavorful, making it both comforting and practical.
For more cozy inspiration, try smoked buffalo chicken dip or easy honey garlic meatballs. If you want variety, crack burgers are another family favorite.
Conclusion
Bring this homestyle chicken and gravy to the table tonight and enjoy a dish that feels like home with every bite. Save this recipe to your board for quick access when you need comfort food made simple.
