Simple Chicken Gravy: A Quick, Classic Homemade Recipe

Pan drippings and pantry staples unite to create a silky sauce that elevates any meal.

By Srija Burman

Aug 29, 2025

Pan drippings and pantry staples unite to create a silky sauce that elevates any meal.

Image: HearthJunction Design Team

Simple Chicken Gravy Recipe

There are few culinary comforts as satisfying as a generous pour of homemade chicken gravy over a plate of roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. This easy, classic chicken gravy recipe delivers rich flavor using just a handful of pantry staples and the delectable pan drippings left over from your roast chicken. Whether you’re a beginner hoping for fool-proof results or a seasoned home cook in need of a reliable standby, this guide gives you all you need to make simple chicken gravy from scratch.

Why Make Chicken Gravy From Scratch?

Better Flavor: Utilizing pan drippings ensures your gravy is packed with savoriness that no store-bought product can match.
Control Over Ingredients: Adjust seasoning, thickness, and salt level to taste.
Cost-Effective: Uses leftover ingredients you already have on hand.
Quick and Simple: Minimal steps and basic ingredients mean it comes together in minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these basic ingredients for an authentic homemade chicken gravy experience:

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup water or chicken stock
½ cup drippings from a roast chicken
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

That’s all you need for classic chicken gravy. Water or chicken stock provides liquid, but stock adds a richer, more savory flavor profile. The drippings, infused with the essence of roasted chicken and any accompanying herbs, elevate the gravy’s taste.

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these simple steps for foolproof chicken gravy every time:

Gather the ingredients.
Make the flour slurry: Place flour in a medium bowl. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water (or stock) and whisk until a thick but smooth mixture forms – it should not be pasty.
Combine with pan drippings: Stir the flour mixture and the remaining water (or chicken stock) into a roasting pan containing drippings from your roast chicken. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
Cook the gravy: Place the pan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy is thickened and bubbly. If the gravy thickens too much, add more water or stock in small amounts until your preferred consistency is reached.
Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Gravy

Whisk continuously: This prevents lumps and ensures a silky, smooth consistency.
Use a roasting pan: Whisking directly in the roasting pan makes use of all the flavorful browned bits left behind.
Don’t overcook: Once the gravy thickens and bubbles, remove from heat to avoid burning or a gluey texture.
Add liquid gradually: If you prefer thinner gravy, incrementally add more stock or water until desired consistency.
Customize seasonings: Start with just salt and pepper, but you can also add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs to complement your meal.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ingredient	Purpose	Tips
All-purpose flour	Thickens the gravy	Ensure it’s whisked well with water to form a lump-free slurry
Water or chicken stock	Forms gravy base	Stock adds more flavor; water works in a pinch
Roast chicken drippings	Provides savory flavor and color	Scrape all browned bits from pan for maximum taste
Salt & pepper	Seasoning	Adjust at the end to avoid over-seasoning

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Homemade chicken gravy is irresistibly versatile. Here are some classic and creative ways to enjoy it:

Poured over roasted chicken for a comforting main dish.
Drizzled atop mashed potatoes for a quintessential side.
As a sauce for stuffing and biscuits on your holiday table.
Mixed into shredded chicken for a quick, savory sandwich filling.
Paired with roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	65
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	1mg
Sodium	111mg
Total Carbohydrate	8g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Protein	8g
Calcium	3mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	345mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Absolutely. Using chicken broth or stock deepens the savory flavor and gives your gravy additional richness compared to water.

What if I don’t have enough chicken drippings?

If pan drippings are lacking, you can supplement with additional broth for the liquid and melt a small knob of butter to add some richness before whisking in the flour mixture.

How do I avoid lumps in my gravy?

Whisking the flour with a small amount of water or stock before adding it to the pan creates a smooth slurry and helps prevent lumps. Continue whisking as you combine the liquid with the drippings over heat.

Can I make chicken gravy ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the gravy, let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock to thin if needed.

Is this gravy gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for thickening sauces.

What if my gravy is too thin or too thick?

If too thin, let the gravy simmer and reduce; if too thick, whisk in additional water or stock a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

Variations and Enhancements

Add herbs: Stir in chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for aromatic flavor.
Make it creamy: For extra richness, finish with a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Onion or garlic base: Sauté finely chopped onions or garlic in the pan before adding drippings for added depth.
Reduced-fat option: Use less pan drippings and supplement with chicken bouillon and olive oil, as seen in lighter versions.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Gravy

Don’t skip the scraping: Use a wooden spoon to loosen all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan before making the gravy.
Taste often: Adjust salt, pepper, and any added herbs gradually for best results.
Cook to bubbling: Simmering the gravy until it bubbles ensures the flour is cooked through and no raw taste remains.

Ask the Community

Still have questions, or want to share your own twist on this recipe? Join the community discussion on chicken gravy, tips, and serving ideas!

User Reviews

Many home cooks rave about the simplicity and reliability of this recipe, praising its forgiving nature and delicious result. The most common feedback includes how easily the gravy thickens, how it adapts to either water or stock, and its perfect pairing with chicken dinners. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amounts or add your own seasonings; this classic recipe leaves plenty of room for your personal touch.

Conclusion

Simple chicken gravy brings together comfort, flavor, and tradition in one quick and easy recipe. With basic ingredients and a straightforward process, anyone can craft savory gravy to complement any meal – from holiday feasts to cozy weeknight suppers. Flavorful, affordable, and always reliable, this is a recipe worth knowing by heart.

References

Author

Srija Burman

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman