Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe

If you’ve been craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings the soul of Southern cooking right to your table, you are going to adore this Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts coated with a crispy cornflake crust, smothered in a luscious, creamy gravy infused with subtle herbs and the richness of sherry. This dish strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and creamy, warm and satisfying, making it a wonderful meal to share with friends or family on any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich textures and deep flavors that make this Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe so unforgettable. From the crispy cornflake coating to the smooth, homemade gravy, every element comes together beautifully.

• 3/4 cup crushed cornflakes: The secret to a golden, crunchy coating that’s lighter than traditional breading.
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Adds a savory blend of herbs that enhances the chicken’s flavor perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smoky depth and vibrant color.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses an earthy fragrance that complements poultry well.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A touch of warmth to brighten the taste.
• 2 tablespoons fat-free evaporated milk: Moistens the coating and adds creamy richness without heaviness.
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each): The succulent star of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked right.
• 2 teaspoons canola oil: Perfect for crisping the chicken without overpowering flavors.

For the Gravy:

• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a rich, buttery base for the gravy.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: The classic thickening agent that gives the gravy beautiful body.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Balances the creamy sauce with a subtle kick.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the gravy.
• 1/2 cup fat-free evaporated milk: Keeps the gravy silky and creamy but light.
• 1/4 cup condensed chicken broth, undiluted: Brings concentrated chicken goodness for robust taste.
• 1 teaspoon sherry or additional condensed chicken broth: Introduces a hint of complexity and sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons minced chives: Freshness and a mild onion flavor to finish the gravy.

How to Make Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the crispy coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with poultry seasoning, paprika, salt, dried thyme, and pepper. This mixture is the secret to that irresistibly crunchy texture—a perfect contrast to the tender chicken beneath. In a separate shallow bowl, pour the evaporated milk; dipping the chicken in this will help the coating stick beautifully.

Step 2: Coat the chicken

Dip each chicken breast half in the evaporated milk until it’s fully moistened, then roll it thoroughly in the seasoned cornflake mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken gently to ensure it clings well during cooking. This step guarantees that iconic Southern-style crust that makes the Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe such a standout.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Heat canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts carefully into the pan and cook, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees Fahrenheit—typically 6 to 8 minutes per side. You’ll notice the crust getting golden and crisp, sealing in all those juicy flavors we love.

Step 4: Make the gravy

While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour, pepper, and salt until a smooth paste forms—this roux will create a luscious base. Gradually add in evaporated milk, condensed chicken broth, and sherry, whisking constantly to keep the sauce velvety. Bring this mixture to a boil and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until thickened. Lastly, fold in freshly minced chives for a bright, fresh finish that lifts the creamy gravy to new heights.

How to Serve Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives or chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and a light herbal note that perfectly complements the rich gravy. For a little extra sparkle, a drizzle of extra condensed chicken broth warmed through can deepen the flavor experience.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, or buttered green beans. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette also provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken and gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic presentation, serve the chicken on a wooden platter alongside spoonfuls of gravy pooled generously around the pieces. You could also take it up a notch by serving over fluffy white rice or creamy polenta, letting the gravy soak in for an even more comforting experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture. Keeping the chicken and gravy together helps preserve that cozy combination of crispy and creamy.

Freezing

This Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe freezes well for future meals. Freeze the cooked chicken and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent sogginess. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat to help retain some of its crispiness, or warm in the oven. The gravy is best reheated slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often until warm and smooth. Avoid microwaving to keep the textures intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken for this Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breast halves are recommended for their quick cooking and consistency, you can also use thighs or even bone-in cuts. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.

Is there a way to make the gravy dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the fat-free evaporated milk with a creamy plant-based milk alternative such as oat or almond milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened version and whisk it in gently to keep the gravy smooth.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?

Definitely. You can prepare the chicken coating and gravy separately in advance. Cook the chicken fresh on the day of your dinner party for the best crunch and warmth, then quickly reheat your prepared gravy and serve right away for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

What can I use as a substitute for the condensed chicken broth?

If you don’t have condensed chicken broth, you can reduce regular chicken broth over medium heat until it thickens and intensifies in flavor, or use a rich homemade chicken stock. Both options work well to keep the depth the recipe deserves.

Is the cornflake coating gluten-free?

Traditional cornflakes may contain gluten, so to make this recipe gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free cornflakes or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. This adjustment maintains the crunchy texture without the gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Country Chicken and Gravy Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its blend of crispy, juicy chicken and silky, herb-infused gravy is a pairing that never gets old. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple for delicious, comforting meals that bring everyone together.

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