Chicken Gravy Recipe – No Drippings Needed! :A Deliciously Easy Comfort Dish

When you think of comforting meals, a hearty chicken gravy served over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits often comes to mind. But what if you’re preparing chicken breast, or perhaps you want a rich, flavorful gravy without the hassle of collecting drippings? This Chicken Gravy recipe—no drippings needed—is here to save the day! It’s easy, quick, and absolutely delicious.

Why Make Gravy Without Drippings?

Traditionally, chicken gravy is made using the flavorful juices left behind after roasting a chicken. While this method is excellent, it isn’t always convenient. Here’s why you might want a no-drippings gravy:

Quick Dinners: You’re in a time crunch and don’t have hours to roast a chicken.
Dietary Preferences: You’re working with skinless chicken breast or other cuts that don’t produce drippings.
Meal Prep: You want to prepare gravy ahead of time for versatility in multiple meals.
Control Over Flavor: You can adjust the flavor profile to suit your taste without relying on the variable flavors of drippings.

This recipe uses chicken broth and a few pantry staples to achieve a rich, velvety gravy that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this no-drippings chicken gravy:

Chicken Broth: 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth are recommended for better control over salt levels.
Butter: 4 tablespoons for richness and a silky texture.
All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons to thicken the gravy.
Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon for a subtle savory flavor.
Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon for depth of flavor.
Dried Herbs: ½ teaspoon of thyme or sage for an earthy note.
Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
Optional Add-ins: A splash of heavy cream for creaminess or soy sauce for a deeper color and umami flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make a Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is fully melted, add the flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a smooth base for the gravy.

Step 2: Add Broth Gradually

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Continue adding the broth in small increments until fully incorporated.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Season

Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs.
Add salt and pepper to taste. If using optional add-ins like heavy cream or soy sauce, stir them in now.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, whisking occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of broth to thin it out.

Step 5: Serve

Pour your homemade chicken gravy over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, biscuits, or any dish that could use a boost of savory goodness.

Tips for Perfect Gravy

Avoid Lumps: Whisk constantly when adding the broth to the roux.
Control Thickness: Adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a thinner consistency or simmering longer for a thicker one.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to suit your preferences.
Storage: Store leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if needed.
Freezing: You can freeze gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low heat.

FAQs About No-Drippings Chicken Gravy

Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

A: Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well and makes the gravy suitable for those avoiding meat.

Q: Can I make this gravy gluten-free?

A: Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with cold broth before adding it to the saucepan to prevent clumping.

Q: How do I make this gravy dairy-free?

A: Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative or use oil. Coconut cream or almond milk can also be added for creaminess.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have onion or garlic powder?

A: Finely minced fresh garlic or shallots can be sautéed in butter as a flavorful alternative.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Q: What dishes pair well with this gravy?

A: This gravy complements a wide variety of dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, stuffing, pot pies, and even poutine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile: Perfect for any meal where you’d use gravy.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors and consistency to suit your taste.
Simple Ingredients: Made with items you likely already have in your kitchen.
Quick: Ready in under 15 minutes!

No-drippings chicken gravy is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals. Whether you’re looking to enhance a weeknight dinner or need a gravy recipe that doesn’t rely on roasting a whole chicken, this recipe delivers every time. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen!

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