This Easy Homestyle Chicken and Creamy Gravy is like a warm hug on a plate! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, and the creamy gravy is so good, you’ll want to pour it on everything!
Honestly, I make this when I need a cozy meal that’s quick to whip up. Pair it with mashed potatoes, and watch everyone’s smile grow as they dig in! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I suggest using bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless skinless chicken breasts work, but they may dry out more quickly, so keep an eye on cooking time!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich flavor, you can swap it for whole milk or half-and-half if you’re watching calories. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk, keeping in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.
Chicken Broth: I use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness in my gravy. If you have vegetable broth, feel free to use that instead for a vegetarian twist!
How Do I Make the Chicken Extra Crispy?
To achieve that nice crispy skin on the chicken, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken thighs. Here’s my pro tip:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any moisture; moisture prevents browning.
- When cooking, don’t move the chicken around too much. Let it sear and form a crust before flipping it.
This ensures that you get that delicious crust that pairs perfectly with creamy gravy. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Homestyle Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook, including simmering the chicken. In no time at all, you’ll have a delicious homestyle meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, which helps the skin crisp up nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the thighs over and cook for another 5 minutes. After, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Gravy Base:
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion, and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color; this helps the gravy thicken later on.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring that there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes. This is where the flavors start to come together!
6. Combine Cream and Chicken:
Stir in the heavy cream and optional dried thyme. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them skin-side up. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a splash of color!
8. Serve:
Enjoy your cozy, comforting homestyle chicken with creamy gravy, served hot alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides. Everyone will love it!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but keep in mind that they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk will also work, but they may slightly change the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Gravy?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or water to avoid the gravy thickening too much.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just be aware that the texture of the gravy may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
