Southern Chicken in Gravy is a comforting, down-home classic featuring tender chicken thighs and drumsticks smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. The chicken is coated in seasoned flour, fried to golden perfection, and then simmered in a creamy onion-infused sauce. It’s soul food at its finest—perfect for a hearty family dinner that satisfies with every bite.

Southern Chicken in Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort food classic that feels like a warm hug.
Easy to prepare with minimal prep and pantry staples.
Rich and flavorful gravy made from scratch.
Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Versatile recipe—serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Crispy then tender chicken cooked to perfection.
One-pan meal makes cleanup a breeze.
Authentic Southern flavor in every bite.
Customizable with your favorite herbs or spice blends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken:

2 pounds chicken thighs and/or drumsticks (about 5 pieces)
1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika

Gravy:

⅔ cup vegetable oil
1 large onion, diced
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (or 1 cube)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

In a large bowl, mix the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, poultry seasoning, and paprika. Remove 3 tablespoons of the seasoned flour and set it aside for the gravy.
Dredge each piece of chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, browning it on all sides.
Transfer browned chicken to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Leave the oil in the pan.
Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the reserved 3 tablespoons of seasoned flour and cook for 1 minute.
Whisk in the chicken bouillon, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and chicken broth. Cook for 2–3 minutes, whisking to avoid lumps.
Whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Return the chicken to the pan, making sure it is well coated with gravy. Cover and cook over medium heat for 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 people
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add spice: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Creamier gravy: Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or sour cream.
Use boneless chicken: Boneless thighs or breasts work if you prefer easier serving.
Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for a richer gravy.
Swap oil: Use butter for a different depth of flavor.
Herb it up: Add thyme, rosemary, or sage to the gravy for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the gravy. Microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs

What can I serve with Southern Chicken in Gravy?

Mashed potatoes, rice, biscuits, cornbread, or collard greens are all classic Southern sides that pair perfectly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish stores well and can be made a day in advance. The flavors even deepen as it sits.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs or breasts work, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your chicken broth and bouillon are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

You can bake it for a lighter version, but the crispy fried coating adds key texture and flavor.

How do I keep the gravy smooth?

Whisk constantly while adding broth and milk. Avoid high heat and be patient while thickening.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, 2%, skim, or non-dairy alternatives like oat or almond milk can be used, though flavor and creaminess may vary.

What if I don’t have poultry seasoning?

Use a mix of thyme, sage, and a bit of rosemary to mimic poultry seasoning.

Is it okay to leave out the onions?

Yes, but the onions add essential sweetness and depth. You can substitute with shallots if preferred.

Conclusion

Southern Chicken in Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that brings classic flavors and heartwarming memories to the dinner table. With its rich, creamy gravy and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, it’s a soul-satisfying recipe worth keeping in your rotation.