Easy Chicken and Gravy Recipe for Quick Family Dinners

From Chef Maxime’s cozy kitchen to yours — this creamy, comforting meal will become your family’s new favorite.

A Story from Chef Maxime’s Kitchen

Growing up, Sunday dinners at Grandma Julia’s were pure magic. The kitchen would fill with the aroma of something savory and warm, pulling everyone toward the table before the plates were even set. The one dish that brought everyone running to the table was her homestyle chicken and gravy. This dish wasn’t just food; it was love, comfort, and family all served on one steaming plate. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the laughter echoing around the room — it’s a memory etched deep into my heart.

Now, I’ve simplified her old-fashioned technique into a quick, 30-minute family meal without sacrificing the richness, warmth, and comfort we all crave. In today’s busy world, we don’t always have hours to spend over a stovetop, but that doesn’t mean we need to compromise on taste or the experience. This recipe fits beautifully into our fast-paced lives while still making dinner feel like a celebration.

When I recreated this version for a busy weekday, it became an instant hit — creamy, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. My kids ask for it by name. Friends have requested the recipe after just one bite. It’s that good. Plus, it’s flexible enough to make in the crockpot, skillet, or oven, giving you options based on what your day looks like and what you have in your kitchen.

And if you’re looking for ways to balance this comfort food with something lighter, try pairing it with healthy sheet-pan recipes or exploring lazy chicken dinner ideas that complement this creamy classic. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a whole family, this dish will make your dinner feel like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Gravy Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes for busy parents and professionals who still want to put a hearty, delicious meal on the table. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:

• Just 5 ingredients – no fuss, no extra shopping. You likely have most of them in your pantry or fridge already.
• Family-approved flavor – even picky eaters love it. The creamy, savory taste is kid-tested and mom-approved.
• Versatile cooking methods – stovetop, crockpot, or Instant Pot. It adapts to your schedule and preferences.
• Budget-friendly, hearty, and full of protein. It delivers big on comfort and taste without breaking the bank.
• Perfect for meal prep – it stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or planning ahead.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe gives you everything you need to succeed in the kitchen. It’s simple, flexible, and above all, comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is key. Here’s what you need for this easy chicken and gravy recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet chicken gravy mix
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: garlic powder, thyme, black pepper

Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor. The chicken provides a lean, protein-rich base. The gravy mix and soup offer creamy, savory notes, while the broth brings everything together. Optional herbs and spices add a depth of flavor that feels gourmet with zero stress.

How to Make Chicken and Gravy (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp. This step locks in moisture and adds a rich, browned flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until smooth. This mixture should be rich and creamy, forming the base of your gravy. Pour it over the seared chicken in the skillet.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer gently for 25 minutes, or until fully cooked through and tender. Stir the gravy occasionally to prevent it from sticking and to help thicken the sauce evenly.

For a hands-off version, try using the crockpot! Set to low for 4–5 hours, or high for 2.5 hours, and let the magic happen without lifting a finger.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can easily twist this recipe to fit your family’s preferences:

• Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: Perfect for set-and-forget days when the oven is full or you’re out of time.
• Smothered Chicken & Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms and caramelized onions to elevate the flavor.
• Shredded Chicken and Gravy: Cook the chicken until very tender, shred it with forks, and serve over fluffy biscuits or warm toast.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gravy mix and soup to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Cream-Free Version: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with Greek yogurt or a cashew-based sauce for a dairy-free twist.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Pair your chicken and gravy with these perfect partners:

• Mashed potatoes – the classic choice that never fails.
• Steamed green beans – fresh and crunchy for balance.
• Roasted cauliflower mash – a low-carb, nutrient-packed alternative.
• Buttery egg noodles – cozy and kid-approved.
• Corn on the cob – a touch of sweetness to round out the meal.

Tip: This dish goes great with our Grilled Orange Roughy Recipe – Easy, Healthy & Flavorful if you’re hosting a family-style dinner or want to add a second protein to the mix.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The gravy will thicken slightly, but a splash of broth will bring it back to life.

Freeze in individual portions or a full batch for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered container, adding a splash of broth to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, especially after long cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute cream of chicken soup with a coconut milk base or a dairy-free cream alternative like cashew cream. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Add mushrooms, peas, carrots, or baby spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking to boost nutrition and texture.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, you can mix the gravy base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just sear the chicken fresh for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 12g
• Sodium: 680mg

This chicken and gravy recipe is protein-packed and easily balanced with veggies or a light salad. It provides the richness and satisfaction of classic comfort food without overwhelming calories or ingredients.

Final Thoughts from Chef Maxime

Easy chicken and gravy recipes like this one bring warmth, comfort, and smiles around the dinner table. Whether it’s for a busy Monday or a relaxing Sunday supper, this dish is the kind that hugs you back. The gravy is silky. The chicken is tender. And the whole house smells like something worth sitting down for.

So, grab that skillet, toss in the chicken, and let that creamy gravy magic unfold. And when your family asks for seconds (because they will), you’ll know this dish has earned its place in your regular dinner rotation.