If you are going to make a Chicken Gravy then you need the perfect blend of herbs and spices and that is the secret to this KFC style chicken gravy.
The secret to getting that perfect flavour is making a perfect brown Roux as well as the seasoning. We use a mix of Chicken and Beef stock cubes combined with sage and pepper to make the perfect Southern fried Chicken Gravy.
This Chicken Gravy is perfect as a KFC gravy or as a gravy for a Roast Chicken Pie....
History of Southern Fried Chicken Gravy
The history of Southern Fried Chicken Gravy is a recipe originating in the Southern United States, this rich and creamy gravy has its roots in the practice of frying chicken, a method that dates back to the 18th century.
Southern cooks, often working with limited resources, would utilize the drippings left in the skillet after frying chicken to create a flavorful sauce. By adding flour to the hot drippings, they would create a roux, which, when combined with milk or broth, transformed into the velvety gravy we know today.
This dish not only served as a way to enhance the flavour of the chicken but also as a means to stretch meals further, making it a staple in Southern households. Over the years, variations have emerged, with some recipes incorporating spices, herbs, or even hot sauce, reflecting the diverse influences of Southern cuisine.
Today, Southern Fried Chicken Gravy is used as a comfort food classic, often served over Chips, Mashed Potatoes, or, of course, Fried Chicken, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking.
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Serves: Four
Tricky
Cook in: 15 min
Prep: 5 min
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Saucepan
Whisk
Measuring Jug
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3-Piece Stainless Steel Saucepan Set with Glass Lids – 16cm / 18cm / 20cm
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Southern fried chicken gravy is a rich sauce that perfectly complements the crispy, golden-brown fried chicken that is eaten in Southern America.
This gravy is typically made by using the drippings left in the skillet after frying the chicken, which adds a deep, savoury flavour.
To create the gravy, a roux is often prepared by whisking together flour and the hot drippings until it forms a smooth paste. Then, milk or cream is gradually added, stirring continuously to achieve a creamy consistency. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of garlic or onion powder are incorporated to enhance the taste.
The result is a luscious, velvety gravy that can be generously poured over the fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, making for a comforting and satisfying meal that embodies the heart and soul of Southern American cuisine.
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Variations of Chicken Gravy
Chicken gravy can be prepared in various ways, each offering a unique flavour.
Traditional recipes often include a base of pan drippings, thickened with flour or cornstarch, and seasoned with herbs and spices.
For a richer taste, some variations incorporate cream or butter, while others may introduce ingredients like mushrooms or garlic for added depth.
Ultimately, the versatility of chicken gravy allows it to complement a wide range of dishes, enhancing the overall meal.
Slowly melt your butter in a deep bottomed pan, do not burn it by melting it too fast.
While your butter is melting, crumble up the stock cubes into a suitable bowl and add the pepper, brown sugar and Sage.
Make up 550 ml of stock by pouring boiling water into the stock cubes and mix it together with a fork.
When the butter is fully melted add the chopped garlic & flour to the pan and mix it together with a whisk.
Let the mixture (Roux) cook on a very low heat for a few minutes so that the butter slowly starts to brown and you get a light brown roux.
When the colour of the roux has changed to light brown add the stock, whisking all of the time.
Bring this to a rolling boil and let it simmer for a further 5 minutes to allow the flavour to infuse into the gravy.
You should be left with a rich, light brown chicken gravy.
If the chicken gravy it is a little too thick for your liking you can always add a splash more boiling water, up to 100 ml should make it quite a bit thinner.
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Chefs Tips for making Chicken Gravy
How long will Chicken Gravy Keep?
The shelf life of chicken gravy depends on how it is stored. When refrigerated, homemade chicken gravy can last for about three to four days if kept in an air-tight container.
Can I make Chicken Gravy in advance?
Yes, you can prepare chicken gravy in advance. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer preservation.
Is Chicken Gravy Gluten free?
No, The gluten-free status of chicken gravy largely depends on its ingredients. In this recipes flour is used as a thickening agent, which contains gluten.
What is a roux?
A roux is a thickening agent made from flour and fat, typically butter, that is cooked together until it reaches a desired colour. The four main stages are white (minimal cooking), blonde (lightly toasted), brown (nutty and rich), and dark brown (intense, smoky flavor). The darker the roux the less thickening power it has.
Can I use cornstarch instead of flour for Chicken Gravy?
No, cornstarch can be used as a substitute for flour in chicken gravyas it serves as an effective thickening agent. But this will change the flavour of this recipe as the rich smokey taste comes from the Dark Roux.
Cuisine:USA
