Juicy Chicken Smothered in Rich, Velvety Gravy
This soul-warming chicken and gravy recipe delivers **restaurant-quality flavor** in under 45 minutes! Perfectly seared chicken bathed in a savory, herb-infused gravy – a guaranteed **crowd-pleaser** for weeknights or Sunday dinners.
Why This Recipe Works
- 🔥 Golden, crispy chicken with melt-in-your-mouth texture
- 🍯 Silky gravy bursting with umami depth
- ⏱️ One-pan wonder – minimal cleanup required
Ingredients for 4 Servings
| For Chicken | For Gravy |
|---|---|
| 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) 1 tsp smoked paprika 2 tbsp olive oil | 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp flour 2 cups chicken broth 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried) |
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Sear to Perfection: Pat chicken dry, season generously. Heat oil in skillet, cook 6 mins/side until golden.
- Build Flavor Foundation: Remove chicken, melt butter. Whisk in flour to create roux (2 mins).
- Create Gravy Magic: Slowly pour broth while whisking. Add thyme, pepper, and chicken. Simmer 15 mins.
Serving Suggestions
- 🥔 Creamy mashed potatoes
- 🥦 Garlic roasted vegetables
- 🍚 Buttery egg noodles
FAQs: Quick Answers
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead?
A: Yes! Reduce cooking time to 8 mins/side to prevent dryness.
Q: How to make gravy thicker?
A: Mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water, stir into simmering gravy.
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Bone-in thighs = juicier results
- ✅ Don’t rush the roux – golden brown = maximum flavor
- ✅ Rest chicken 5 mins before serving
“The secret to unforgettable gravy? Deglaze the pan with broth – those crispy browned bits are flavor gold!”- Chef Maria, Recipe Developer
Pro Tips for Success
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Bring chicken to room temp | Ensures even cooking |
| Use unsalted butter | Better control over seasoning |
| Add splash of white wine | Elevates gravy complexity |
Nutritional Info (per serving)
Calories: 420 | Protein: 34g | Carbs: 8g | Fat: 28g
Make ahead tip: Gravy stores beautifully for 3 days – simply reheat with splash of broth.
