If you have ever craved that deliciously savory, perfectly smooth sauce that makes KFC’s fried chicken complete, then you are in for a real treat with this KFC Style Gravy Recipe. It is rich, creamy, and packed with just the right amount of seasoning to bring your plate to life. Whether you’re topping crispy fried chicken, fluffy mashed potatoes, or warm biscuits, this gravy captures the comforting essence of Southern cooking with a simple yet flavorful approach. Get ready to make a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up authentic tasting gravy is simpler than you think, and these few carefully chosen ingredients come together to create incredible flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color. Each component plays a critical role, from the butter that forms the base to the seasonings that build depth.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy foundation and helps to create a smooth roux.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy and adds body for that luscious texture.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Delivers savory, comforting chicken flavor while controlling salt levels.
- 1 beef bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder: Contributes deep, meaty umami notes reminiscent of KFC’s famous gravy taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and aromatic balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle, savory hint that boosts overall complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a mild kick and warmth.
- Salt to taste: Highlights and enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Create Your Roux Base
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour continuously. This step is crucial to avoid lumps and to cook the flour just enough so it loses its raw taste. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and smells nutty—the hallmark of a great roux that will give your gravy body and flavor.
Step 2: Add Broth Slowly
Next, gradually whisk in the chicken broth, a little at a time. This method ensures a perfectly smooth gravy without lumps. Keep whisking as the roux absorbs the broth, transforming the mixture into a silky sauce that begins to thicken before your eyes.
Step 3: Season for That Classic Flavor
Now, crumble in the beef bouillon cube or sprinkle in the bouillon powder. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. These seasonings combine aromatic, savory, and slightly piquant notes that echo the signature KFC gravy taste you love. Continue whisking the sauce to fully incorporate all the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the gravy to a gentle boil while still whisking. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency and lets the flavors marry beautifully. Give it a taste and add salt if needed. Your KFC Style Gravy Recipe is ready when it’s silky, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting.
How to Serve KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
This gravy shines best when garnished simply but thoughtfully. Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper on top to add a little aroma and crunch. For a touch of green, finely chopped fresh parsley or chives provide a lovely contrast to its golden hue and add a fresh, herbal lift.
Side Dishes
The best companions to this gravy are classics like buttery mashed potatoes, crispy fried chicken, or flaky biscuits. It’s also a fantastic topping for roasted vegetables or even a humble plate of steamed rice — whenever you want to add a soul-warming element to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends and family? Serve the gravy in a small ceramic gravy boat or drizzle it artistically over your dish. For parties, create mini mashed potato “nests” topped with fried chicken and a generous spoonful of gravy. This not only looks fantastic but guarantees everyone gets a taste of that golden, velvety goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover KFC Style Gravy Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
This gravy freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and add a splash of broth or water if the gravy becomes too thick. This will help restore its smooth, pourable consistency that makes it so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I make this gravy vegetarian?
Yes! To make this KFC Style Gravy Recipe vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the beef bouillon with vegetarian bouillon powder or cubes. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, and you’ll still get a deliciously savory and satisfying gravy.
What if I don’t have a beef bouillon cube?
If you don’t have beef bouillon cubes, you can use beef bouillon powder or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. These alternatives will give that classic rich flavor which defines the KFC style gravy taste.
How do I fix gravy that’s too thick?
If your gravy becomes too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This keeps the texture smooth and spoonable.
Can I use pan drippings instead of butter?
Absolutely! Using pan drippings from roasted chicken or turkey instead of butter adds incredible richness and enhances the savory notes in your KFC Style Gravy Recipe. Just use the drippings to replace the butter in equal measure.
Is this gravy gluten-free?
This recipe as written is not gluten-free because of the all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening if needed. Adjust amounts as cornstarch thickens more efficiently than flour.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about mastering a homemade gravy that tastes just like the one from KFC — comforting, flavorful, and perfectly smooth. This KFC Style Gravy Recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve when you want to wow guests. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever ate mashed potatoes or fried chicken without it. So go ahead, bring that sunshine to your plate, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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KFC Style Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade KFC Style Gravy recipe delivers rich, savory Southern comfort with a smooth, creamy texture. Made from a simple roux of butter and flour combined with chicken broth and seasoned with beef bouillon and classic spices, this gravy is perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or biscuits for an authentic copycat experience.
Ingredients
Gravy Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden brown and forms a smooth roux. This step develops the base flavor and thickening agent for the gravy.
- Add Broth Gradually: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. This gradual addition ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Season the Gravy: Add the beef bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper to the mixture. Continue whisking to combine well.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve the hot gravy over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or biscuits for a comforting Southern meal.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, you can use pan drippings from roasted chicken or turkey instead of butter.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your preferred consistency.
- This gravy can be made ahead of time and gently reheated on the stove before serving.
