Easy Homemade Chicken Gravy(With or Without Drippings)

Learn how to make silky-smooth, flavorful chicken gravy from scratch in just minutes — with or without drippings — using pantry staples!

Why This Is the Best Homemade Chicken Gravy Recipe

This easy homemade chicken gravy recipe is a must-have in every home cook’s arsenal. It delivers rich, savory flavor and a velvety texture that takes your favorite comfort food meals — from mashed potatoes to roast chicken — to the next level. Whether you have drippings from roasted chicken or not, this guide shows you how to make perfect gravy every time.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Gravy

Basic Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons fat (butter, oil, or chicken fat from drippings)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or 1 tablespoon cornstarch for gluten-free version)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup chicken drippings
• 1-2 teaspoons chicken bouillon paste or 1 bouillon cube
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream for richness

How to Make Chicken Gravy (3 Easy Methods)

Method 1: Chicken Gravy with Drippings

1. Collect drippings: After roasting chicken, pour drippings into a fat separator or measuring cup.
2. Skim fat: Let sit, then skim off 2 tablespoons of fat.
3. Make the roux: Heat fat in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Add liquids: Slowly whisk in chicken broth and reserved drippings.
5. Simmer: Cook 5-8 minutes, whisking constantly until thickened.
6. Season: Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to taste.

Method 2: Chicken Gravy Without Drippings

1. Start the base: Melt butter in a saucepan.
2. Make a roux: Add flour, whisk, and cook until golden.
3. Add broth and bouillon: Slowly whisk in broth and chicken bouillon.
4. Simmer and thicken: Whisk constantly for 5-8 minutes.
5. Season: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme as desired.

Method 3: Gluten-Free Chicken Gravy (No Flour)

1. Heat broth and drippings: Or use broth with bouillon.
2. Make a slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water.
3. Thicken: Slowly whisk slurry into simmering broth.
4. Cook 1-2 minutes: Stir constantly until thickened.
5. Season to taste.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep: 5 minutes
• Cook: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups (serves 4)

Nutritional Info (Per 1/4 cup, approx.)

• Calories: 65
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 310mg

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Gravy

• Cook the flour: Toast the roux until golden to avoid a floury taste.
• Use quality broth: Homemade or low-sodium store-bought works best.
• Boost umami: Add bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or even a touch of fish sauce.

Flavor Variations

• Creamy chicken gravy: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream.
• Herb-infused: Simmer with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs.
• Mushroom gravy: Add 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms before the roux.
• White wine twist: Replace 1/4 cup of broth with dry white wine.

What to Serve with Chicken Gravy

This rich, homemade chicken gravy pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Roasted or fried chicken
• Turkey and stuffing
• Rice or quinoa
• Open-faced chicken sandwiches
• Roasted veggies like green beans or Brussels sprouts

FAQs About Easy Chicken Gravy

Can I make chicken gravy ahead of time?

Yes! Store in the fridge up to 2 days or freeze up to 4 months.

Why is my gravy too thin?

It may need a longer simmer or another small batch of thickener (cornstarch slurry).

How do I fix lumpy gravy?

Strain it or use an immersion blender.

What if I want a stronger chicken flavor?

Simmer broth with chicken scraps or add more bouillon paste.

Can I use this recipe for turkey or beef gravy?

Absolutely! Just swap in the corresponding drippings and broth.

Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or a weeknight chicken dish, this easy homemade chicken gravy recipe proves that a simple sauce can bring big flavor. Skip the store-bought packets — this customizable, foolproof method delivers restaurant-quality results every time.