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The Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Gravy

A spoonful of rich, brown chicken gravy is being poured over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes on a white plate.

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Make this simple homemade chicken gravy in under 15 minutes. This recipe works perfectly whether you use pan drippings or make it entirely from scratch with chicken broth. It is a budget-friendly sauce ideal for mashed potatoes, biscuits, or roasted chicken.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (warm)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. If you have pan drippings, measure 4 tablespoons of the fat and place it in a medium saucepan over medium heat. If you do not have drippings, use 4 tablespoons of butter instead.
  2. Once the butter melts or the drippings are hot, whisk in the flour. Cook this roux, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and smells slightly nutty. Do not let it brown too much.
  3. Slowly pour in the warm chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and dried thyme, if using.
  6. Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve this savory chicken sauce immediately over your favorite comfort food.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor when using broth, warm the chicken broth slightly before adding it to the roux.
  • If you want a thicker gravy, cook the roux for a minute longer or whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water during the last minute of simmering.
  • If you are using pan drippings from roasted chicken or turkey, you may need to reduce the added salt, as the drippings are often salty.

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