The Best Southern Chicken and Gravy (Stovetop Comfort Food Classic)
This old-fashioned Southern Chicken and Gravy recipe is pure comfort food made from scratch. Juicy chicken breasts simmer in a creamy homemade gravy, perfect served over mashed potatoes for a cozy family dinner.
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There is just something about old fashioned Southern Chicken and gravy that warms the soul. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are pan fried to perfection, then smothered in a rich, creamy homemade gravy made from scratch.
This simple stovetop recipe is the definition of comfort food, and it comes together in under an hour using just a handful of pantry staples. Around here, we love serving ours over a big spoonful of Redskin Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate cozy southern dinner.
If you’ve ever wondered why Southern gravy is such a staple across the South, the Southern Foodways Alliance has a wonderful article about the deep roots of this comfort food tradition.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Made completely from scratch using real ingredients. No cans or mixes.
- A stovetop only recipe, no oven required.
- Perfectly seasoned and full of old fashioned southern flavor.
- Creamy gravy made from the pan drippings. (The best part in my opinion!)
- Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinating chicken)
- 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder seasoning (for marinating chicken)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (in skillet for frying)
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder seasoning (adding to gravy)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon basil
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
The chicken bouillon seasoning I use in this recipe and in all my other recipes is a homemade seasoning I make. You can make your very own chicken bouillon powder seasoning with just a few simple pantry staples.
How to Make the Best Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts in half lengthwise so they cook evenly. To a small bowl add the cut chicken breast, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of chicken bouillon seasoning. Mix until evenly coated.
Step 2: Pan-Fry
In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and pan-fry the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, scrape up any of the chicken bits and seasoning. You should have oil left in your skillet but if not add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens — about 5–7 minutes. Season with 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder seasoning, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon basil, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the gravy over top. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all that rich flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Southern Chicken and Gravy over a bed of Redskin Mashed Potatoes for the perfect comfort food meal.
Tips for the Best Southern Chicken and Gravy
- Don’t skip the pan drippings, they add tons of flavor to your gravy.
- Whole milk makes the creamiest gravy, but you can use half-and-half for extra richness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Double the gravy if you love extra sauce (we always do!).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm, adding a splash of milk to loosen the gravy if needed.
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FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in pieces take longer to cook through, so make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use 2% milk instead of whole milk?
You can! The gravy just won’t be quite as creamy, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I freeze Southern chicken and gravy?
Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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