Name: Quick Chicken and Gravy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 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; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1.25 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 0.75 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or dried thyme); 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt; 1-2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream); Hot mashed potatoes

Introduction to Quick Chicken and Gravy

When you're looking for a hearty meal that doesn't consume your entire evening, quick chicken and gravy is the answer. This creamy and comforting dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you simply want something delicious without the fuss. Picture this: tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, savory gravy, served over fluffy mashed potatoes. Sounds tempting, right?

Not only is quick chicken and gravy a treat for the taste buds, but it can also be tailored to suit your pantry staples. Whether you’re a fan of fresh herbs or prefer the convenience of dried ones, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences. Also, if you’re curious about nutrition, a serving offers a balanced mix of protein and flavor without excessive calories. You can dive deeper into healthy meal planning with resources from Healthline and Mayo Clinic.

By investing just a few minutes in the kitchen, you can whip up a dish that brings everyone to the table. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delectable dinner!

Ingredients for Quick Chicken and Gravy

If you're eager to whip up something special yet simple, this quick chicken and gravy recipe is the perfect choice. Let’s break down the essential components you’ll need to gather for this appetizing dish.

Essential ingredients for the chicken

To serve up a delightful chicken base, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 ½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or chunks
½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

These ingredients come together to create a fragrant and flavorful chicken that lays the foundation for your delicious meal. If you're looking for other tips on seasoning, consider checking out sources like The Spruce Eats.

Ingredients needed for the gravy

The gravy is what truly elevates this dish, adding richness and comfort. Ensure you’ve got these items:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
¾ teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1-2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or use sour cream)

With these ingredients, you'll create a creamy gravy that's simply irresistible over your chicken and mashed potatoes. For a deeper dive into the nuances of gravy-making, visit expert websites like Serious Eats.

Gather these essentials, and you're well on your way to a comforting dinner that both warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds!

Preparing Quick Chicken and Gravy

When it comes to whipping up a satisfying dinner, quick chicken and gravy are a winning combination that can easily transform a busy weeknight into a flavorful meal. This recipe is not only quick to make but also uses ingredients you likely already have at home. Let’s dive into the steps!

Gather the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s helpful to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the chicken:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 ½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or chunks
½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the gravy:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
¾ teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1-2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

For serving:

Hot mashed potatoes

Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and make it even more enjoyable.

Cook the Onions and Chicken

Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Who doesn’t love the smell of sautéing onions in the kitchen?

While the onions are cooking, season your chicken pieces with the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Raise the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on one side until it’s nicely browned. Flip it over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. It’s amazing how quickly this step transforms simple chicken into something delicious!

Make the Gravy Base

Once your chicken is golden brown, remove it from the skillet (along with the onions) and keep them warm. Now, let’s make that creamy gravy!

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add more butter to the skillet. When it’s melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously—this will help avoid lumps. Add thyme, salt, and pepper, and let the gravy simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens beautifully.

Combine Chicken and Gravy

Carefully return the chicken and onions back into the gravy, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Don’t you just love how the two components come together to create a savory dish?

Finish by stirring in the Greek yogurt, which will add that extra creaminess to the gravy.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes

Now comes the best part! Serve your quick chicken and gravy over a generous mound of hot mashed potatoes, and don’t forget to add extra gravy on top. Ah, comfort food at its finest! Whether you whip up homemade mashed potatoes or grab a quick option from the store, this dish is sure to satisfy.

So, how about pairing this with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal? You’ve just crafted a delicious dinner in 25 minutes—everyone will love it!

Variations on Quick Chicken and Gravy

Spicy Chicken and Gravy Twist

For a kick of heat, consider transforming your quick chicken and gravy into a spicy delight! Simply add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the chicken. You can also incorporate hot sauce into the gravy for an extra layer of flavor. This fiery twist pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, balancing the heat with soothing comfort!

Vegetables to Add for Extra Nutrition

Boost the nutrition factor of your quick chicken and gravy by adding seasonal vegetables. Toss in some carrots, peas, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken. Not only will this enhance the dish's flavor profile, but it will also provide added vitamins and minerals. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in more veggies for those busy weeknights! For more veggie inspiration, check out this guide.

Cooking tips and notes for Quick Chicken and Gravy

Best practices for cooking chicken

When preparing your quick chicken and gravy, choosing the right cut of chicken is crucial. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly, but feel free to experiment with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Make sure to season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning for the best taste. Cooking over medium-high heat will help achieve that perfect sear, so don’t rush it! Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Tips for a thicker gravy

For a thicker gravy, it's all about the flour! Whisk it with the butter thoroughly to create a roux that serves as the base. Make sure to add the chicken broth slowly, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. If your gravy isn’t thickening as desired, simmer it longer, or mix in an additional tablespoon of flour blended with a bit of broth, adding it in until you reach your preferred consistency.

Serving suggestions for Quick Chicken and Gravy

Accompaniments to enhance the meal
When serving your quick chicken and gravy, consider pairing it with buttery garlic bread or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can also help balance the dish's richness. Feeling adventurous? Add a side of roasted potatoes for a cozy, hearty meal.

Creative ways to present the dish
Presentation plays a key role in elevating your meal. Serve the chicken and gravy over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Try using a shallow bowl or plate to show off the vibrant gravy embracing the chicken—a feast for both the eyes and tummy! For a fun twist, consider serving it in a bread bowl for a more rustic experience. Explore more presentation ideas here.

Time Breakdown for Quick Chicken and Gravy

Preparation Time
This delightful recipe begins with a quick 5-minute prep. You’ll chop the onion and ready your chicken, making it easy to jump right into cooking.

Cooking Time
Next, you'll spend about 20 minutes cooking. While the chicken sizzles in the skillet, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas, making that wait absolutely worth it!

Total Time
In just 25 minutes, you can have a warm, hearty plate of quick chicken and gravy ready to serve over fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect balance of speed and flavor for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home!

Nutritional Facts for Quick Chicken and Gravy

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this quick chicken and gravy contains approximately 521 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet balanced meal option for those busy weeknights.

Protein Content

Packed with 57 grams of protein, this dish makes an excellent choice for muscle recovery or anyone looking to boost their protein intake—a perfect fit for active lifestyles.

Sodium Levels

Keep in mind, this dish contains about 564 mg of sodium per serving. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps manage sodium levels without sacrificing flavor. For more tips on reducing sodium in your diet, check out the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Quick Chicken and Gravy

How can I customize the chicken?

The beauty of this quick chicken and gravy recipe is its versatility. If you prefer chicken thighs instead of breasts, feel free to swap them out for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different seasonings—consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary for an extra pop. If you're feeling adventurous, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mix for added nutrition and flavor!

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn't available, don't worry—sour cream works beautifully as a substitute, lending creaminess to your gravy. Alternatively, you can blend 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise with a splash of lemon juice for a smoother consistency. For a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This quick chicken and gravy dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chicken and gravy, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat your meal in the microwave or on the stove, stirring gently to keep the chicken juicy. You can also double the recipe to have quick dinners ready throughout the week!

Conclusion on Quick Chicken and Gravy

In just 25 minutes, you can create a creamy and comforting dish that brings everyone together. This quick chicken and gravy is perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. Your family will be asking for seconds!