Description
This homemade KFC-style gravy recipe delivers the rich, savory flavor and creamy texture of the famous fast-food classic using simple pantry ingredients. Made with a buttery roux, chicken broth, and flavorful seasonings, this easy gravy is perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, fried chicken, fries, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Heat Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely to prepare for making the roux.
- Make Roux: Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour and continue whisking for 4 to 5 minutes. Keep stirring until the mixture turns a deep golden brown, indicating a well-cooked roux.
- Add Broth: Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
- Dissolve Bouillon: Stir in the beef bouillon cube until fully dissolved to enhance the savory flavor of the gravy.
- Season: Add onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper for depth of flavor. Optionally, include a dash of soy sauce and a pinch of paprika for additional umami and a subtle smoky note.
- Simmer and Thicken: Let the gravy simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a bit more chicken broth or hot water to achieve the perfect texture.
- Strain for Smoothness: For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps or bits.
- Serve: Serve hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, fries, or biscuits for a classic comfort food pairing.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the gravy.
- Be patient when cooking the roux; the deep golden brown color adds a rich nutty flavor essential to classic KFC gravy.
- The beef bouillon cube adds depth but can be omitted or substituted for vegetarian versions.
- Optional soy sauce and paprika enhance umami and add complexity but can be left out if desired.
- To make the gravy gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- For a smoother texture, always whisk continuously when adding liquid to the roux to prevent lumps.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop while stirring.
