Southern Chicken and Gravy (Stovetop Comfort Food Classic)

Homemade chicken and gravy in a cast iron skillet.

Equipment

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinating chicken)
2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder seasoning (for marinating chicken)
2 tablespoons olive oil (in skillet for frying)
1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder seasoning (adding to the gravy)
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups whole milk
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
¼ teaspoon basil
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

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.

Notes

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.