Name: Best Homemade KFC Gravy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 beef bouillon cube; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; Dash of soy sauce (optional); Pinch of paprika (optional)

If you have ever craved that rich, creamy flavor of KFC gravy, you’re in for a treat! This Best Homemade KFC Gravy is a delightful solution that will have you reminiscing about your favorite fast-food moments right in the comfort of your home. With its velvety texture and mouthwatering peppery notes, this gravy is not only quick to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Imagine smothering it over steaming mashed potatoes or crispy fried chicken, transforming any meal into a comfort food dream.

The beauty of this gravy lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of pantry staples, it takes under 15 minutes to whip up this golden-brown goodness, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. What’s more, this recipe doesn’t require any meat drippings, which opens the door for a vegetarian version. This recipe is versatile and is not only for those cozy nights; it’s fantastic for quick breakfast ideas like biscuits and gravy too. Dive into this fulfilling recipe, and watch as it becomes a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Best Homemade KFC Gravy

Quick Preparation: From start to finish, this gravy can be ready in less than 15 minutes.
Versatile Usage: Perfect for various dishes, including mashed potatoes, fried chicken, and biscuits.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples that are easy to find, ensuring you won’t need to make extra trips to the store.
Vegetarian Option: A simple swap allows you to create a delicious vegetarian gravy without losing flavor.
Comfort Food Classic: A nostalgic flavor that invokes warmth and comfort with every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this quick and easy gravy recipe, ensure you have your kitchen prepared for success. Gather your ingredients: unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, low-sodium chicken broth, a beef bouillon cube, garlic and onion powders, black pepper, and other optional seasonings. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

For the cooking process, a medium saucepan is essential for combining your ingredients. A whisk is crucial for preventing lumps while making the roux, ensuring a smooth texture in your gravy. If you desire an extra fine consistency, keep a fine mesh sieve on hand. It’s also ideal to keep your broth warm before incorporating it into the mix, as this helps create an even more velvety gravy.

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 beef bouillon cube
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Dash of soy sauce (optional)
Pinch of paprika (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Begin your homemade gravy by placing the medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt completely without burning. This process serves as a foundation for your gravy, creating a rich base for the roux.

Step 2: Create the Roux

As soon as the butter has melted, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep whisking continuously for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the mixture turns a deep golden brown. This step is crucial; the roux forms the thickening agent for your gravy and imparts a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Step 3: Introduce the Broth

With the roux ready, slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while whisking vigorously. This technique prevents any lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth gravy. The hot broth helps to combine the roux, creating the desired creamy consistency.

Step 4: Add the Bouillon

Next, incorporate the beef bouillon cube into the saucepan. Stir until it dissolves completely, enriching the gravy’s flavor profile. The combination of chicken broth and beef bouillon creates a unique taste that mirrors the beloved KFC variety.

Step 5: Season the Gravy

Now, sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper to add depth to your gravy. If you’re using soy sauce and paprika, fold them in during this step. These ingredients not only elevate the flavor but also add a subtle complexity to the gravy.

Step 6: Thicken & Adjust Seasoning

Allow the gravy to simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. This simmering period enables the gravy to thicken while you stir occasionally. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt or pepper to your preference for the perfect seasoning balance.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If by chance the gravy becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to whisk in a bit more broth or hot water to loosen it up. The goal is to have a pourable but thick consistency that clings beautifully to whatever you choose to serve it with.

Step 8: Strain for Smoothness

For an ultra-smooth texture, you can strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve before serving. This step is optional but can enhance the experience of your homemade KFC gravy!

Step 9: Serve Hot

Finally, serve your delicious gravy hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, crispy fries, or warm biscuits for a true comfort food experience.

Variations

Protein: For a heartier gravy, consider adding drippings from roasted chicken or turkey.
Vegetables: Sauté onions or mushrooms to incorporate fresh flavors and textures.
Spices: Enhance the flavor with additional spices such as cayenne pepper for heat or different herbs like thyme.

Cooking Notes

Always keep your broth warm before adding it to the roux for a smoother blending process.
Whisk continuously when creating the roux to prevent it from clumping or burning.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings that you enjoy to create a personalized taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Perfect drizzle over fried chicken or chicken fried steak for that classic diner feel.
Use as a rich sauce for a breakfast biscuit sandwich, elevating your morning routine.

Tips

For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and beef bouillon with mushroom bouillon.
If you find your gravy is too salty, balance out with a touch of sugar.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 90
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 450mg

FAQs

Can I make this gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

Can I freeze homemade KFC gravy?

Freezing the gravy is possible, but it may change its texture slightly when reheated. If you choose to freeze it, do so in a sealed container, and consume within 2 months.

How can I thicken gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy is too thin for your liking, you can whisk in a little cornstarch that has been dissolved in water. Ensure to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.

What is the best way to serve this gravy?

Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, biscuits, or even as a dipping sauce for fries. Its versatility makes it a winner for any meal!

Conclusion

This Best Homemade KFC Gravy recipe offers all the incredibly rich and savory flavor of your favorite fast-food version, with the added perk of being easy and quick to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal time needed, you can achieve a depth of flavor that will leave your family craving more. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or a cozy family night, serving this gravy over your favorite comfort foods will have everyone asking for second helpings. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you tried in the comments below! Happy cooking!