We’ve always loved the comforting allure of biscuits and gravy, that quintessential Southern staple, but our chicken version adds a flavorful twist that’ll have you craving more. It’s a hearty dish perfect for lazy weekends or quick weeknight meals, blending tender chicken with creamy gravy for ultimate satisfaction.
If you’re seeking an easy recipe that simplifies classic comfort food without skimping on taste, we’ve got you covered. With straightforward steps and everyday ingredients, this chicken biscuits and gravy creation is both approachable and delicious, ready to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
In our easy Chicken Biscuits and Gravy recipe, we gather simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver comforting flavors and textures. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for seamless preparation.
Chicken Components
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound, diced into 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken to achieve a golden, crispy exterior)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (freshly added to season the chicken for a robust, aromatic base)
Gravy Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted in the pan to form the roux, creating a rich, creamy foundation)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (whisked into the butter to thicken the gravy smoothly)
- 2 cups whole milk (poured gradually for a velvety, pourable consistency that coats the chicken perfectly)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium, stirred in to enhance depth and balance the creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt (added to taste, ensuring the gravy’s savory notes shine without overpowering)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (ground fresh for a subtle, warming kick)
Biscuit Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated biscuits (8-count, ready-to-bake for convenience, or if preferred, use our homemade option below for a flakier result)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for light, airy biscuits)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (mixed in to help the dough rise quickly)
- ½ teaspoon salt (combined for balanced flavor)
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes and worked in for tender layers)
- ¾ cup buttermilk (poured to bind the dough, resulting in soft, golden biscuits)
Equipment Needed
With our ingredients assembled, we now turn to the essential tools that make preparing this easy Chicken Biscuits and Gravy recipe straightforward and efficient. In our experience, having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and helps achieve that perfect, comforting result every time.
To keep things organized, we’ve categorized the equipment by preparation stage—chicken preparation, gravy making, and biscuit baking. This setup minimizes cleanup and maximizes workflow.
- For Chicken Preparation:
A cutting board for safely chopping and handling the chicken breasts, paired with a sharp knife to ensure precise cuts that promote even cooking.
- For Gravy Making:
A large skillet or frying pan (at least 10 inches) to sear the chicken and create the creamy gravy base—we find non-stick versions reduce sticking and simplify stirring. Don’t forget a whisk for smoothly blending the flour and milk to avoid lumps, and a measuring cup set for accurate liquid measurements.
- For Biscuit Baking:
A mixing bowl if opting for homemade biscuits, along with a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for even baking and easy removal. An oven thermometer can be helpful to confirm the temperature hits 425°F for flaky, golden results.
In our kitchen tests, using quality tools like these not only speeds up the process but also enhances the dish’s texture and flavor. For instance, a good whisk ensures the gravy remains velvety, while a reliable baking sheet prevents biscuits from burning. If you’re scaling the recipe for more servings, consider upgrading to larger versions of these basics.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create our flavorful Chicken Biscuits and Gravy. We’ll ensure each phase is straightforward and yields a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any meal.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, we prepare our ingredients to streamline the process and enhance flavors. Begin by chopping 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Measure out seasonings like 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, combining them in a small bowl for easy access. Next, gather and measure liquids for the gravy: 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of chicken broth. For the biscuits, if opting for homemade, mix dry ingredients in a bowl—2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt—before cutting in 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Cook the Chicken
We now focus on cooking the chicken to achieve a golden, juicy texture that adds a savory depth to our dish. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped chicken pieces and sprinkle with the prepared garlic powder mixture. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s tender and full of flavor without overcooking.
Prepare the Gravy
With the chicken ready, we shift to crafting a rich, creamy gravy that ties the dish together with its velvety consistency. In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux—cook for 1-2 minutes until it bubbles and emits a nutty aroma. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, then stir in the cooked chicken. Let it thicken for 3-5 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon, creating a luscious, savory sauce that elevates our Chicken Biscuits and Gravy.
Bake the Biscuits
To complement our dish, we bake fluffy biscuits that provide a crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior. If using refrigerated biscuits, preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange 8 pre-made biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For homemade, add ¾ cup of milk to the dry ingredients mixture and stir until just combined, then drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they rise and turn golden on top, filling your kitchen with an irresistible, warm aroma that signals they’re ready to pair with the gravy.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we assemble our Chicken Biscuits and Gravy for a satisfying presentation. Split each warm biscuit in half and place them on serving plates. Generously spoon the hot, creamy chicken gravy over the biscuits, ensuring every bite is soaked with flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp biscuits against the tender chicken and smooth gravy, making this easy recipe a go-to for delightful, homemade meals.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify our Chicken Biscuits and Gravy recipe, we love offering make-ahead options that keep flavors fresh and textures intact, making it easier for busy days. This approach lets us prepare components in advance without sacrificing the hearty, creamy goodness of tender chicken smothered in rich gravy over fluffy biscuits.
Preparing the Chicken Ahead
We can cook the chicken up to 2 days in advance for optimal freshness. Start by seasoning and searing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in olive oil until they achieve a golden, juicy exterior. Once cooled, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This step preserves the chicken’s savory essence and moisture, ensuring it reheats to a tender perfection that complements the creamy gravy.
Making the Gravy in Advance
Our gravy base holds up beautifully when made ahead, allowing the flavors of butter, flour, whole milk, and chicken broth to meld even more. Prepare the gravy by melting unsalted butter in a skillet, whisking in all-purpose flour to form a roux, then gradually adding whole milk and chicken broth while seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook until it reaches a thick, velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to use, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its smooth, aromatic warmth without breaking the emulsion.
Handling the Biscuits
For biscuits, we have flexible make-ahead strategies depending on whether we choose refrigerated or homemade options. If using refrigerated dough, keep it in its original packaging and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month—simply thaw overnight before baking. For homemade biscuits, mix the dough as outlined, cut into shapes, and place on a baking sheet. Freeze the uncooked biscuits on the sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to achieve that flaky, golden rise that pairs perfectly with the hot gravy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To maintain the dish’s comforting appeal, we recommend the following storage guidelines in a markdown table for quick reference:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 2 days | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and juicy |
| Gravy | Sealed container in fridge | Up to 3 days | Warm on low heat on the stove, stirring to keep creamy |
| Refrigerated Biscuits | Original packaging in fridge | Up to 2 days | Bake as per package instructions |
| Homemade Biscuit Dough | Freezer bag in freezer | Up to 1 month | Bake from frozen, increasing time by 5 minutes |
By following these make-ahead steps, we ensure our Chicken Biscuits and Gravy remains an easy, flavorful meal that reheats with minimal effort, delivering that irresistible blend of crispy biscuits and savory gravy every time.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this chicken biscuits and gravy recipe to bring simple joy to your kitchen
It’s a go-to for hearty meals that satisfy without the hassle
We’re sure it’ll become one of your favorites and spark new family traditions
Dive in and enjoy the comfort it offers every time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Biscuits and Gravy?
Chicken Biscuits and Gravy is a flavorful twist on the classic Southern dish, featuring tender chicken smothered in creamy gravy served over fluffy biscuits. It’s a hearty, comforting meal perfect for weekends or quick dinners, blending simple ingredients for an easy, homemade taste that appeals to home cooks.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Biscuits and Gravy?
The recipe requires chicken ingredients like boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, and garlic powder; gravy components including unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper; and biscuits made from refrigerated dough or homemade with flour, butter, and baking powder. Focus on high-quality, simple items for the best flavor.
What equipment is needed to make Chicken Biscuits and Gravy?
You’ll need a cutting board and sharp knife for prepping chicken, a large skillet for cooking chicken and making gravy, and a mixing bowl and baking sheet for biscuits. Using quality tools ensures even cooking and optimal texture, making the process efficient and enjoyable.
How do I prepare Chicken Biscuits and Gravy?
Start by chopping and seasoning the chicken, then cook it in a skillet until golden. Make the gravy by whisking butter, flour, milk, and broth in the same pan. Bake biscuits separately until fluffy. Assemble by topping warm biscuits with the cooked chicken and gravy for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Can I make Chicken Biscuits and Gravy ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and gravy in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to 2 days. For biscuits, use refrigerated dough or make homemade and freeze unbaked. Reheat chicken and gravy on the stove, and bake biscuits fresh to maintain texture and flavor, simplifying mealtime.
How should I store and reheat Chicken Biscuits and Gravy?
Store cooked chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring in a bit of milk if needed, and warm chicken in the microwave or oven. Bake fresh biscuits before serving to keep them crisp.
Is Chicken Biscuits and Gravy suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s beginner-friendly with straightforward steps and common ingredients. The recipe includes simple instructions for prepping, cooking, and assembling, taking about 30-45 minutes. Follow the guidelines closely for great results, and it’s a fun way to build cooking confidence.