There’s something undeniably comforting about chicken biscuit gravy. This classic Southern dish brings together fluffy biscuits, tender chicken, and rich creamy gravy for a meal that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, chicken biscuit gravy always hits the spot.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. Let’s dive into this recipe and make a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients
To make our Chicken Biscuit Gravy truly shine, we’ll carefully select quality ingredients for each component. Let’s break down what we need to create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
For the Chicken
We want tender and flavorful chicken to complement our gravy and biscuits perfectly. Here are the essentials:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky depth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking
For the Biscuits
Fluffy, buttery biscuits are the foundation of this dish. We recommend using:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tang and tenderness)
For the Gravy
The creamy, savory gravy ties the whole dish together. Here’s what we’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | For thickening |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Creates rich base |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Preferably low sodium |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Adds creaminess |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust at the end |
| Freshly ground pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Provides gentle heat |
| Fresh thyme (optional) | 1 teaspoon chopped | For aromatic flavor |
Each ingredient has been chosen to ensure our Chicken Biscuit Gravy recipe is rich, satisfying, and authentic every time.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Biscuit Gravy recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here is a breakdown of the key tools we use in each step of the process:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan:
Ideal for cooking the seasoned chicken breasts to a tender, juicy finish. This pan also serves as the primary vessel for making the rich, creamy gravy, allowing even heat distribution.
- Mixing Bowls:
We need two separate bowls—one for combining the biscuit dry ingredients and another for mixing wet ingredients like butter and milk together before forming the dough.
- Whisk:
Essential for smoothly blending the gravy ingredients. It helps prevent lumps when combining the flour, butter, chicken broth, and milk.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Precision matters! Accurate measuring ensures the biscuits rise perfectly and the gravy thickens just right.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula:
Perfect for stirring the gravy without scratching the skillet.
- Baking Sheet or Cast Iron Skillet:
Necessary for baking the fluffy biscuits until golden and soft.
- Knife and Cutting Board:
For trimming and seasoning the boneless chicken breasts prior to cooking.
- Cooling Rack:
Useful to let biscuits cool slightly after baking to maintain their fluffy texture.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet/Sauté Pan | Cook chicken and prepare gravy | Use heavy-bottomed for even heat |
| Mixing Bowls | Mix biscuit dough ingredients | Separate for dry and wet mixes |
| Whisk | Blend gravy without lumps | Metal or silicone |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential for recipe success |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stir gravy and mix biscuit dough | Heat-resistant preferred |
| Baking Sheet/Cast Iron | Bake biscuits | Preheat oven prior to use |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Prep chicken | Clean and sharp knife recommended |
| Cooling Rack | Cool biscuits | Avoid sogginess |
Prep Work
To make our Chicken Biscuit Gravy Recipe seamless and delicious, careful preparation is key. Let’s break down the essential steps to prep each component perfectly.
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse rich flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat or tendons for a tender bite.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better searing.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil and cook the chicken breasts 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- Once cooked, set aside and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
Making the Biscuit Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut cold cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add whole milk or buttermilk and gently mix until just combined. Do not overwork the dough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and fold 2-3 times to create layers.
- Roll or pat dough to 1-inch thickness for fluffy, flaky biscuits.
- Use a biscuit cutter to cut rounds and place them on a baking sheet or cast iron skillet.
- Keep dough and cut biscuits cold before baking for best rise.
Gathering Ingredients for Gravy
Organize the following to streamline cooking:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | For rich roux base |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | Thickens the gravy |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Preferably low sodium |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Adds creaminess |
| Salt | To taste | Seasonal adjustment |
| Freshly ground pepper | To taste | For balanced heat |
| Fresh thyme (optional) | 1 teaspoon | Adds aromatic flavor |
Having these ready ensures smooth progression once we start the gravy. Keep measuring spoons and a whisk nearby for accuracy and ease.
“Preparation is the foundation of perfection” in our Chicken Biscuit Gravy Recipe. Taking these steps ensures every layer of flavor and texture shines through.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring all the elements together step-by-step to master this Chicken Biscuit Gravy recipe perfectly. Each component requires attention to detail for the best flavor and texture.
Cooking the Chicken
- Prep the chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season generously on both sides with:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil or butter until shimmering.
- Place chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 6–7 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip and cook the other side for 5–6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the skillet. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: Resting the chicken preserves its juices ensuring tender bites in our gravy.
Baking the Biscuits
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- Cut in ½ cup cold cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ¾ cup whole milk or buttermilk stirring just until dough holds together.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 5-6 times.
- Pat dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a 2.5-inch biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting.
- Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
Making the Gravy
- Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbling, stirring constantly.
- Slowly add 2 cups chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in 1 cup whole milk and continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Season with:
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet. Stir to coat chicken evenly with the creamy gravy.
- Optional: Stir in 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves for an herby lift.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cook chicken | 6-7 min / side | Medium heat | Rest 5 min after cooking |
| Bake biscuits | 12-15 min | 425°F (220°C) | Don’t twist biscuit cutter |
| Make gravy | 4-5 min | Medium heat | Whisk constantly for smoothness |
Assembling the Chicken Biscuit Gravy
To assemble our Chicken Biscuit Gravy flawlessly, we follow a systematic approach that layers texture and flavor perfectly. This ensures every bite delivers a harmonious blend of fluffy biscuits, tender chicken, and rich creamy gravy.
Step 1: Slice the Biscuits
- Begin by carefully slicing the freshly baked biscuits horizontally.
- Use a serrated knife to avoid crushing the delicate flaky layers.
- Set the biscuit bottoms on warm serving plates to prepare for layering.
Step 2: Add the Tender Chicken
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts on top of each biscuit base.
- Slice the chicken into even pieces about ½ inch thick for uniformity.
- Distribute the chicken evenly to ensure each serving has a balanced amount.
Step 3: Ladle the Creamy Gravy
- Warm the gravy gently over low heat until smooth and hot.
- Using a ladle, generously pour the creamy gravy over the chicken and biscuit open-faced bases.
- The gravy should coat the chicken layers thoroughly, seeping into the biscuit to enhance flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Top with Biscuit Halves
- Place the biscuit tops gently over the gravy-coated chicken.
- Optionally, add a small dollop of gravy on top for an elegant finish.
- This final touch locks in moisture while presenting a rustic, inviting appearance.
Serving Tips
| Component | Serving Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | Serve warm on a cooling rack | Keeps biscuits fluffy and moist |
| Chicken | Slice evenly | Ensures consistent texture and taste |
| Gravy | Serve hot and fresh | Enhances overall warmth and richness |
As we assemble, we remember this classic dish excels when served immediately, allowing each element to showcase its full flavor and texture. The gravy’s velvety finish melds beautifully with the slight crispness of biscuits and the tender juiciness of chicken, making every bite a sumptuous experience.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Chicken Biscuit Gravy, we recommend serving it warm to highlight the creamy texture and rich flavors. Here are several ways to elevate your meal experience:
- Classic Plating: Slice the flaky biscuits in half. Place tender, seasoned chicken breast on the biscuit base. Generously ladle the creamy gravy over the chicken and finish with the biscuit top. Serve immediately to preserve warmth.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley for a burst of color and light herbal aroma that complements the smoky paprika in the chicken.
- Accompany with Sides: Pair with lightly sautéed green beans or crisp coleslaw for texture contrast and balanced nutrition.
- Breakfast Option: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to transform this dish into a hearty Southern-style breakfast.
- Spice it Up: Offer hot sauce or cayenne pepper flakes at the table for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their gravy.
Temperature Guidelines for Serving
| Component | Ideal Serving Temperature | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | 140°F (60°C) | Maintains fluffy texture |
| Chicken | 165°F (74°C) | Ensures food safety and juiciness |
| Gravy | 160°F (71°C) | Retains thickness and creaminess |
“Serving Chicken Biscuit Gravy piping hot unlocks the full savory richness and delivers that iconic Southern comfort taste we love.”
By following these serving suggestions, we can enhance the flavors and textures of this beloved dish, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Chicken Biscuit Gravy ahead of time can save us valuable cooking moments while ensuring every bite stays rich and flavorful. Here are key make-ahead strategies to keep this classic Southern dish fresh and delicious.
Prepare the Chicken in Advance
Cook the seasoned chicken breasts fully, then cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to retain juiciness.
Bake Biscuits Ahead of Time
Bake the flaky biscuits fully, then cool on a rack. Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Biscuits keep well for up to 2 days at room temperature or 1 week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To refresh, heat biscuits in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth and texture.
Make and Store the Gravy
Prepare the creamy gravy completely, cooling it to room temperature before refrigerating. Store in a covered container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally to restore smoothness. If the gravy thickens too much after chilling, thin it with a splash of milk or chicken broth until it reaches the desired consistency.
Assemble Just Before Serving
For best texture, assemble the Chicken Biscuit Gravy components right before serving. Layer freshly sliced biscuits, warm chicken, and hot gravy just prior to eating. This prevents sogginess and preserves the dish’s comforting balance of flaky biscuits and creamy gravy.
| Component | Storage Time Refrigerated | Storage Time Frozen | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 3 days | 3 months | Reheat gently with broth splash |
| Biscuits | 2 days (room temp), 1 week (fridge) | 3 months | Warm in 350°F oven for 10 mins |
| Gravy | 3 days | Not recommended | Reheat low heat; whisk to smooth |
Storage and Reheating
Proper Storage and Reheating of our Chicken Biscuit Gravy ensures every bite stays as delightful as freshly made. Here’s how we preserve the dish’s rich flavors and textures safely while maximizing convenience.
Storing Each Component
We recommend storing the biscuit, chicken, and gravy separately to maintain their distinct textures and flavors. Combining them too soon can lead to soggy biscuits and uneven reheating.
- Biscuits: Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature if consuming within 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Cooked Chicken: Place the chicken in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days to keep it tender and juicy.
- Gravy: Store the gravy in a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir before reheating to ensure even consistency.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If we want to extend storage life, freezing is ideal:
- Wrap biscuits individually or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 2 months.
- Freeze cooked chicken in portioned airtight containers or bags up to 3 months.
- Freeze gravy in airtight containers, leaving space for expansion. Use within 2 months.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat while preserving quality:
- Biscuits: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. This helps restore their flaky, golden texture.
- Chicken: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly covered to avoid drying.
- Gravy: Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir often and add a splash of milk or broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Pro Tip: Assemble the Chicken Biscuit Gravy freshly after reheating to enjoy perfect texture contrast and flavors.
| Component | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Freezer Duration | Reheating Method | Reheat Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | Airtight container or wrapped | 2–5 days | Up to 2 months | Oven at 350°F (175°C) | 8–10 minutes |
| Chicken | Airtight container | 3–4 days | Up to 3 months | Skillet or microwave | 3-5 minutes (medium heat) |
| Gravy | Sealed container | 3 days | Up to 2 months | Stovetop, stirring often | 5-7 minutes (low-medium heat) |
Important Notes
- Always cool components to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to prevent condensation.
- Do not refreeze thawed leftovers to maintain food safety and quality.
- For best flavor, consume refrigerated leftovers within 3–4 days.
- Reheat only the portion needed to avoid repeated heating cycles.
By following these Storage and Reheating tips, our Chicken Biscuit Gravy stays delicious and ready to enjoy anytime without compromising the homestyle charm and delectable taste we love.
Conclusion
Chicken Biscuit Gravy is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, it’s easy to create a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe offers flexibility and delicious results every time.
By paying attention to each step—from seasoning the chicken to baking fluffy biscuits and crafting creamy gravy—we ensure a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful preparation turns classic comfort food into a memorable experience worth sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chicken biscuit gravy?
Chicken biscuit gravy is a classic Southern dish featuring flaky biscuits topped with tender, seasoned chicken and creamy, rich gravy. It’s comforting, versatile, and perfect for any meal.
What ingredients are needed for chicken biscuit gravy?
Key ingredients include boneless chicken breasts, all-purpose flour, baking powder, butter, whole milk or buttermilk, chicken broth, and seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional fresh thyme.
What equipment do I need to make chicken biscuit gravy?
You’ll need a large skillet, mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a wooden spoon or spatula, baking sheet or cast iron skillet, knife, cutting board, and a cooling rack.
How do you cook the chicken for this dish?
Season boneless chicken breasts with spices, then cook them in a skillet until golden and tender, ensuring they have a flavorful crust and juicy interior.
How do you make the biscuits flaky?
Mix dry ingredients with cold, cubed butter, then use gentle folding to create flaky layers before baking until golden brown.
What is the best way to make the gravy?
Make a roux with butter and flour, slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, then season and cook until smooth and creamy.
Can I prepare chicken biscuit gravy in advance?
Yes, you can cook and store the chicken, bake the biscuits, and make the gravy ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the biscuits from getting soggy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store biscuits, chicken, and gravy separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for a few days or freeze for longer storage, reheating gently to maintain texture.
How do I reheat chicken biscuit gravy without losing texture?
Reheat each component separately with low heat in the oven or microwave. Warm gravy slowly while stirring, and heat biscuits and chicken until just warm.
Is chicken biscuit gravy suitable for all meals?
Yes, its versatility makes it ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering a comforting and satisfying meal anytime.