KFC-Style Gravy

Sometimes, it’s the little things that turn a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. For me, that’s always been the perfect gravy. I’ve experimented with countless recipes over the years, trying to replicate the famous KFC-style gravy I’ve always loved. It’s smooth, savory, and just the right amount of seasoning. T

he magic of this gravy lies in its simplicity and its ability to elevate basic dishes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of gravy that tastes just like what you’d find at a KFC restaurant.

It’s not only easy but incredibly versatile, complementing everything from chicken to biscuits to mashed potatoes. I love making this at home because it brings a little piece of that beloved comfort food straight to my kitchen.

Short Description

This homemade KFC-style gravy is rich, flavorful, and easy to make. With just a few ingredients—broth, butter, and seasonings—you can recreate the famous, velvety gravy from your favorite fried chicken spot. Serve it over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or even biscuits for a truly comforting experience.

Key Ingredients

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Tools Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Ladle

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by melting 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.

Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns into a thick paste, called a roux.

Step 2: Add the Broths
Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of beef broth, one bit at a time. As you add the broth, whisk vigorously to prevent lumps from forming.

Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Gravy
Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in 1/2 teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder.

Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and salt to taste. Continue stirring for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Simmer
Let the gravy simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If the gravy is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a bit more broth, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve
Once your gravy is perfectly smooth and seasoned, it’s time to serve! Spoon it over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or any dish you want to elevate with this savory, comforting gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Rich and savory flavor that perfectly complements mashed potatoes or chicken.

– Quick and easy to make in under 15 minutes.

– Customizable with low-sodium broths for a healthier option.

– Thick, smooth texture that coats your food beautifully.

– Versatile – can be used on a variety of comfort dishes.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Lumpy Gravy: The most common issue is lumps. To avoid this, whisk the roux well and add the broth gradually, making sure to stir constantly as you go. If lumps do appear, you can use a blender or immersion blender to smooth things out.

Gravy Too Thick: If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add more broth a tablespoon at a time and whisk until it reaches the desired consistency.

Underseasoned Gravy: Taste as you go. If the gravy feels bland, it may need a little more salt or seasoning. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more onion or garlic powder for depth.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or roasted meats.

– Pair with buttery biscuits or crispy fries.

– Excellent with steamed vegetables or a side salad for balance.

– Great addition to a family-style meal or comfort food feast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick after being refrigerated, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use only chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute the beef broth with more chicken broth for a lighter flavor.

2. Can I make this gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the gravy ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before serving.

3. How can I make this gravy gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with a little water to replace the flour.

4. Can I freeze this gravy?
Gravy can be frozen, but its texture may change slightly after thawing. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months, and reheat it slowly.

5. What should I do if my gravy is too salty?
If your gravy turns out too salty, try adding a splash of cream or a bit more broth to balance it out.

Tips & Tricks

– Use a whisk to constantly stir the roux and gravy to ensure a smooth texture.

– If you want a thicker gravy, let it simmer a bit longer, but be sure to check the consistency every few minutes.

– For extra flavor, try adding a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier gravy.

Recipe Variations

Herbed Gravy: Add a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary to the broth while simmering for an herb-infused flavor. Remove the herbs before serving.

Mushroom Gravy: Sauté finely chopped mushrooms in butter before making the roux. Add them to the gravy for a savory, earthy twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s no doubt that homemade gravy takes your meal to the next level. This KFC-style version has all the flavors of the classic, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a few simple steps. I’ve made this recipe so many times, and each time it’s been a hit.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this gravy is something you’ll want to have in your recipe arsenal. It’s the perfect way to add that extra touch of comfort to your meal, and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions.