15 Best Southern Chicken Gravy Recipe You Must Try Them!

Ingredients

Chicken Drippings

The first and most important ingredient in any southern chicken gravy is the chicken drippings. This is the flavorful liquid that is left behind after cooking chicken, and it's what gives the gravy its rich and savory taste. To get the best drippings, use a whole chicken or chicken pieces with skin on, and cook it in a cast iron skillet or roasting pan. The drippings will be a combination of chicken fat and juices and will add a depth of flavor to your gravy.

Flour

Flour is the thickening agent for the gravy and helps give it that creamy texture. It's important to use the right type of flour for the best results. All-purpose flour is the most commonly used, but for a richer and darker gravy, you can use a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour. Be sure to cook the flour in the chicken drippings for a few minutes before adding any liquids to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Broth or Stock

To add even more flavor to your gravy, you can use chicken broth or stock instead of water. This will give your gravy a richer and more savory taste. If you don't have any broth or stock on hand, you can use water, but be sure to season it well with salt and pepper to make up for the lack of flavor.

Milk or Cream

For a creamy and indulgent gravy, you can add milk or cream to the mixture. This will give your gravy a smooth and velvety texture and make it even more irresistible. If you don't have any milk or cream, you can use half and half or evaporated milk for a similar effect.

Steps

Step 1: Make the Roux

To start, heat the chicken drippings in a skillet over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the flour and stir constantly until it turns a light golden brown color. This will take a few minutes, but it's an important step to cook the raw flour taste out of the mixture.

Step 2: Add the Liquids

Slowly pour in the broth or stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the milk or cream and continue whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. You can add more or less liquid depending on how thick you want your gravy.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Once the gravy has thickened, taste it and add any additional seasoning as needed. This is the perfect time to add salt, pepper, or any other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. Be sure to taste and adjust until the gravy is just right.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Now that your gravy is ready, you can serve it over your favorite southern dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or biscuits. The possibilities are endless, and the result will be a delicious and authentic southern chicken gravy that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In conclusion, the best southern chicken gravy is a simple yet flavorful combination of chicken drippings, flour, broth or stock, and milk or cream. By following these steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic gravy that will elevate any meal. So next time you're craving some comfort food, give this recipe a try and taste the true flavors of the South.