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The Ultimate Easy Chicken Gravy (From Scratch or Without Drippings)

A white ladle pours rich, steaming chicken gravy over pieces of seasoned meat on a white plate.

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Make rich, velvety chicken gravy in under 15 minutes. This recipe works perfectly using pan drippings or entirely from scratch with chicken broth, making it ideal for mashed potatoes, roast chicken, or biscuits.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or reserved pan drippings
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (warm)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for depth)

Instructions

  1. If using pan drippings, measure out 4 tablespoons of fat. If making without drippings, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk the flour into the melted fat (butter or drippings) to create a smooth roux. Cook the roux, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty. Do not let it brown deeply.
  3. Slowly pour the warm chicken broth into the roux while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer, still whisking occasionally.
  5. Once simmering, the gravy will begin to thicken. Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and dried thyme, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Serve this savory chicken sauce immediately over your favorite comfort food.

Notes

  • For a thicker gravy, cook the roux longer or add an extra teaspoon of flour. For a thinner consistency, add a splash more warm chicken broth.
  • If you have drippings, using them adds deep flavor, but using butter results in a lighter color, perfect for a classic velvety chicken sauce.
  • This recipe is budget friendly and works well as a Thanksgiving side dish base.

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