Introduction to Quick Chicken and Gravy
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, nothing beats the soothing embrace of a warm meal. Quick chicken and gravy rises to the occasion as the go-to comfort food for busy weeknights. Imagine a flavorful, creamy dish that warms you from the inside out—all ready in just 25 minutes! This recipe is a lifesaver for those evenings when you need a satisfying meal without the stress.
Why is quick chicken and gravy so popular? For starters, it brings together simple, on-hand ingredients that make cooking feel less like a chore and more like a joy. When you serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, you create not just a dish but an experience—one that invites you to gather around the table and enjoy the moment. According to a survey by the USDA, home-cooked meals not only save money but also foster connection among friends and family, reinforcing the comfort that a meal can bring.
So if you've had a long day or just want something hearty and delightful, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Ready to dig in? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Quick Chicken and Gravy
Essential Ingredients for Chicken
Getting the chicken just right is essential for a delicious quick chicken and gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted Butter: A tablespoon will help achieve that golden sear while adding flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Another tablespoon adds a crispiness to the chicken while keeping it moist.
- Onion: One medium onion, chopped, contributes a wonderful sweetness when sautéed.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs. cut into strips or chunks make for a tender and juicy meal.
- Poultry Seasoning, Kosher Salt, and Black Pepper: Simple seasoning that elevates the chicken's natural flavor.
Key Ingredients for Gravy
No quick chicken and gravy would be complete without a savory gravy! Here are the key players:
- Unsalted Butter and All-Purpose Flour: These two work together to form a roux, thickening your gravy to perfection.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Using 1.25 cups of this broth ensures a rich and savory base.
- Fresh Thyme: A teaspoon of fresh thyme (or dried if you need) adds an aromatic touch.
- Greek Yogurt: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons at the end for a creamy finish.
These ingredients make for both a hearty dish and a satisfying dinner in just 25 minutes. If you're curious about more tips and tricks for perfecting your gravy, check out this link on the art of making gravy.
Preparing Quick Chicken and Gravy
When you're in need of a mealtime solution that’s both satisfying and quick, quick chicken and gravy is the answer! With just a small list of ingredients and a simple process, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Let’s walk through the steps together.
Heat the skillet and sauté onions
Start by grabbing a large skillet and heating up one tablespoon of unsalted butter along with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. This combination not only adds flavor but also ensures the butter won’t burn too quickly. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, toss in a medium onion that you’ve chopped. Sauté the onions for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and translucent. This step forms a delightful aromatic base for your quick chicken and gravy. The fragrant smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, "What’s cooking?"
Season and cook the chicken
While the onions are sautéing, season 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or chunks) with half a teaspoon each of poultry seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Once your onions are ready, increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until it’s beautifully browned, then flip it over and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side. This sounds straightforward, but coloring the chicken properly makes a world of difference in flavor!
Make the creamy gravy
Now that your chicken is cooked, take it out of the skillet and keep it warm. Lower the heat to medium-low and add three tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same pan—yes, you'll want to keep all those delicious bits stuck to the pan! Once the butter has melted, add three tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk this mixture together, cooking it for about one minute to eliminate that raw flour taste. Next, slowly pour in 1.25 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, whisking continuously until it's smooth. Sprinkle in three-quarters of a teaspoon of fresh thyme, along with some salt and pepper. Allow this gravy to gently cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine chicken with the gravy
Once the gravy is at the right consistency, return the chicken and sautéed onions to the skillet. Stir well to ensure each piece of chicken is coated with that luscious gravy. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes, making sure the chicken is cooked through. This step is key for melding all those flavors together.
Serve over mashed potatoes
Now it’s time to plate! Serve your quick chicken and gravy over a generous helping of hot mashed potatoes. Don’t skimp on the gravy; it’s meant to be plentiful! Enjoy each bite, and feel free to share your leftovers (if there are any) with friends—you might just start a new dinner tradition.
This hearty meal not only satisfies hunger but brings everyone together at the table. Bon appétit!
Variations on Quick Chicken and Gravy
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Boost the health factor of your quick chicken and gravy by tossing in some veggies! Consider adding in chopped carrots, peas, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only does this elevate the nutritional value, but it also adds a burst of color and flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to meet your daily veggie intake! For more on the benefits of adding greens to your meals, check out this guide from Healthline.
Exploring Different Spices and Herbs
Feel free to customize your quick chicken and gravy by experimenting with different spices and herbs. For a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also brighten up the dish. Don’t be afraid to get creative; your taste buds might just thank you! For more on incorporating herbs into your cooking, visit The Kitchn.
Cooking tips for Quick Chicken and Gravy
Ensuring perfectly cooked chicken
To get that perfectly cooked chicken in your quick chicken and gravy, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is both safe to eat and juicy! For an added flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken beforehand. A simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic can do wonders.
Adjusting gravy thickness to your preference
When it comes to gravy thickness, you have the flexibility to customize! If you prefer it thicker, simply let it simmer a little longer, or add more flour. For a thinner consistency, whisk in additional chicken broth until you reach your desired texture. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed—it's all about personal preference!
For more tips on mastering sauces, check out this guide.
Serving suggestions for Quick Chicken and Gravy
Pairing sides to enhance the meal
To elevate your quick chicken and gravy, consider pairing it with sides that bring out its comforting flavors. Classic mashed potatoes are a must, but you can also try:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli: Their crunch provides a delightful contrast.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra gravy!
- A fresh salad: Tossed greens with a simple vinaigrette add brightness to the meal.
Creative serving ideas for leftovers
Don’t let any of your quick chicken and gravy go to waste! Here are some innovative ways to use leftovers:
- Chicken and gravy sandwiches: Pile it onto crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
- Gravy over rice or quinoa: Swap the mashed potatoes for a hearty grain base.
- Stuffed bell peppers: Mix with rice, repurpose, and bake for a comforting dish.
Feel free to explore and let your creativity shine!
Time breakdown for Quick Chicken and Gravy
Preparation time
In just 5 minutes, you can get everything prepped and ready to go. Chop your onions and season your chicken for the best flavors.
Cooking time
The actual cooking takes about 20 minutes. This includes browning the chicken and whipping up that delicious, creamy gravy.
Total time
The entire process comes together in a swift 25 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but craving comfort food!
Nutritional Facts for Quick Chicken and Gravy
Calories per serving
Each serving of this quick chicken and gravy contains approximately 521 calories. It’s a satisfying option for dinner that won’t leave you feeling overly stuffed.
Key nutrients
This dish provides essential nutrients including:
- Protein: Over 57g, helping with muscle repair and growth.
- Fat: About 24g, featuring healthy sources from olive oil and Greek yogurt.
- Carbohydrates: Around 17g, primarily from the gravy.
Health considerations
While quick chicken and gravy is a delicious choice, be mindful of sodium content at 564mg. Opt for low-sodium broth and adjust salt levels to suit your dietary needs. Incorporating more veggies can also enhance nutrition.
For a more in-depth look at healthy eating, check out the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health for great tips!
FAQs about Quick Chicken and Gravy
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken can save you time, but it’s essential to thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you're starting with frozen chicken, you might want to increase the cooking time slightly to make sure it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can make quick chicken and gravy healthier by using skinless chicken breasts or thighs and opting for whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of butter or using a low-fat alternative like unsweetened almond milk to maintain creaminess without the extra calories. Adding some sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, can also boost the nutritional profile.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your quick chicken and gravy delicious for later, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, be mindful to do so gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to retain moisture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal that tastes just as great on day two!
Conclusion on Quick Chicken and Gravy
In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this quick chicken and gravy dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, delivering comfort in every bite. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness that unfolds!
Quick Chicken and Gravy
Equipment
- large skillet
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or chunks
- 0.5 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
For the gravy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.25 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.75 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or use dried thyme)
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1-2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
For serving
- Hot mashed potatoes
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet (with a lid) over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Meanwhile, season the chicken pieces with poultry seasoning, salt and pepper on both sides.
- Increase the heat to medium high and add the chicken to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, until browned. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until browned.
- Remove the chicken and onions from the pan and keep warm.
- Make the gravy. Reduce the heat to medium low and add the butter to the same skillet.
- Once melted, add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook the flour mixture for 1 minute, whisking occasionally.
- Slowly add the chicken broth to the pan and whisk continuously to combine, until the mixture is smooth and without any lumps. Sprinkle in the thyme, salt and pepper.
- Let the gravy cook over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken and onions to the pan and stir well to coat all of the chicken in the gravy. Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt.
- Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes with plenty of gravy.
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