There's nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly roasted chicken filling your home. The crispy skin, tender meat, and the tantalizing juices that collect at the bottom of the pan - it's a symphony of flavors that can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. But did you know that those precious drippings from your roast chicken can be transformed into a delicious chicken gravy that will take your dinner to the next level?

In this article, we'll explore the art of making chicken gravy with roast chicken drippings. It's a simple yet rewarding process that can add a touch of elegance and comfort to any meal, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

The Basics of Chicken Gravy

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a moment to understand the basics of chicken gravy. Gravy is essentially a sauce made from the juices and fats that are released during the cooking process. In the case of chicken gravy, we'll be using the drippings from a roast chicken as the base. These drippings are rich in flavor and add a depth of taste that you just can't get from a store-bought gravy mix.

To make a good chicken gravy, you'll need a few key ingredients: the chicken drippings, flour, chicken broth, and seasonings. The flour acts as a thickening agent, while the chicken broth adds moisture and flavor. The seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and herbs, help to enhance the taste of the gravy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Gravy

Step 1: Collect the Drippings

Once your roast chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. While the chicken is resting, place the pan over medium heat on the stovetop. Use a spoon to skim off any excess fat from the surface of the drippings. You can save this fat for other cooking purposes, such as frying potatoes or making biscuits.

Step 2: Make the Roux

A roux is a mixture of flour and fat that is used to thicken sauces and gravies. In this case, we'll be using the chicken drippings as the fat. Add about 2 tablespoons of flour to the pan with the drippings. Use a whisk to stir the flour into the drippings, making sure to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook the roux over medium heat for about 2 - 3 minutes, stirring constantly. The roux should turn a light golden brown color, which indicates that the flour has been cooked and will thicken the gravy properly.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth

Slowly pour about 1 - 2 cups of chicken broth into the pan with the roux. Use a whisk to stir the broth into the roux, making sure to break up any lumps. The mixture will start to thicken as it cooks. Continue to cook the gravy over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 - 7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth. If it's too thin, you can cook it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Step 4: Season the Gravy

Once the gravy has reached the desired consistency, it's time to season it. Add salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices that you like. Some popular seasonings for chicken gravy include thyme, rosemary, sage, and garlic powder. Start with a small amount of each seasoning and taste the gravy as you go. Adjust the seasonings according to your personal preference.

Step 5: Strain the Gravy (Optional)

If you want a smooth and lump-free gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove any bits of chicken or flour that may be in the gravy. However, if you don't mind a little texture in your gravy, you can skip this step.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've made your delicious chicken gravy, it's time to serve it. Chicken gravy is a versatile sauce that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Roast Chicken: Of course, the most obvious choice is to serve the gravy with the roast chicken that you used to make it. Drizzle the gravy over the chicken and enjoy the combination of flavors.
• Mashed Potatoes: Chicken gravy and mashed potatoes are a classic combination. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich and savory gravy.
• Rice: You can also serve the gravy over rice. The fluffy texture of the rice absorbs the flavors of the gravy, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Vegetables: Chicken gravy can be used to add flavor to vegetables. Pour the gravy over steamed or roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or green beans, for a tasty side dish.

Conclusion

Making chicken gravy with roast chicken drippings is a simple and rewarding process that can elevate your dinner to a whole new level. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and flavorful gravy that will impress your family and friends. So, the next time you roast a chicken, don't let those precious drippings go to waste. Turn them into a delicious chicken gravy and enjoy a cozy and satisfying dinner any night of the week.