If you’ve ever craved that perfect, silky, and flavorful gravy that KFC serves alongside its crispy fried chicken, you are in for a treat with this KFC Style Gravy Recipe. This rich and comforting gravy has just the right balance of savory depth and smooth texture to elevate any meal, turning simple dishes into memorable feasts. It’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch with just a handful of pantry staples, capturing that iconic taste that makes you want to dunk your chicken over and over again. Trust me, once you master this KFC Style Gravy Recipe, it will become your go-to comfort sauce for family dinners and casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—these simple ingredients each play an essential role in creating the luscious, savory flavor and velvety texture that define this recipe. From fat to flour to broth, every component contributes to the perfect balance of richness and seasoning.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a creamy, rich base for the roux that thickens the gravy beautifully.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The thickening agent that combines with butter to create a smooth roux for that perfect gravy consistency.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds a gentle savory flavor and liquid base, allowing you to control the saltiness.
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crushed: Boosts the depth of flavor with a meaty umami punch essential to KFC’s signature taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic quality to the gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing every spoonful.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces just the right kick for balanced seasoning.
- Salt to taste: Adjusts the final flavor to your preference, enhancing all the other ingredients.
How to Make KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by melting the unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan. This step is crucial because melting the butter just right creates the ideal base for your gravy. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the roux turns a beautiful golden brown color, which gives the gravy its characteristic depth and slightly toasted flavor.
Step 2: Gradually Add Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. This slow addition while whisking helps prevent lumps and ensures your gravy stays silky smooth. The broth brings in the savory foundation for that classic gravy taste, balancing the richness of the roux with a light brothiness.
Step 3: Season the Gravy
Sprinkle in the crushed beef bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir them in well to fully dissolve the bouillon cube and distribute the spices evenly. These ingredients are your flavor dream team, mimicking the iconic KFC gravy’s signature seasoning.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Allow the gravy to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. As it simmers, it will thicken beautifully. Watching this transformation is one of the most satisfying parts—you’ll see your simple ingredients turn into a luscious, velvety sauce. Taste test and add salt if needed, since broths and bouillon cubes vary in saltiness.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once thickened to your desired consistency, remove the gravy from the heat. If you want a super smooth gravy, you can blend it briefly, but that’s completely optional. Pour it into a serving dish or ladle it straight onto your favorite meals.
How to Serve KFC Style Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
KFC Style Gravy is wonderful on its own, but for a little extra flavor and visual appeal, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. The fresh green bursts give the gravy a hint of color and a complementary herbal brightness that contrasts nicely with the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This gravy is the perfect companion to mashed potatoes, fried chicken, biscuits, or roasted vegetables. It elevates any humble side dish into something comforting and crave-worthy. If you’re making a hearty Southern-style meal, this gravy is the glue that ties everything together deliciously.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the KFC Style Gravy drizzled over a loaded baked potato topped with cheese and crispy bacon bits. Or use it as a dipping sauce for crispy chicken tenders or even breakfast biscuits. The possibilities are endless and always satisfying!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness and prevent condensation.
Freezing
If you want to store gravy for longer, freezing works great. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. If it thickens too much during refrigeration or freezing, whisk in a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back that perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! For an even richer flavor, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with beef broth. It deepens the savory notes and gets closer to the classic KFC gravy taste.
Is this gravy gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend to make it safe for gluten intolerance, but the texture might differ slightly.
Can I make this gravy vegan or vegetarian?
Yes! Use a vegetarian or mushroom bouillon cube and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and beef bouillon to keep it plant-based while maintaining great flavor.
Why does my gravy have lumps?
Lumps usually form if the flour isn’t cooked into the butter properly or if the broth is added too quickly. Whisking constantly and adding broth gradually while stirring will keep the gravy smooth.
How thick should KFC Style Gravy be?
The ideal thickness is pourable but not runny—it should coat the back of a spoon and flow slowly. You can adjust thickness by cooking longer to reduce or whirling in a bit more broth to thin it out.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Style Gravy Recipe is a must-try if you want to bring that nostalgic fast-food comfort into your home kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a luscious, flavorful gravy ready to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to make extra because this gravy goes perfectly with so many dishes—you might find yourself making it a regular! Dive in and enjoy every creamy, savory spoonful.
Print
KFC Style Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This KFC Style Gravy recipe recreates the classic, rich, and savory gravy that pairs perfectly with fried chicken or mashed potatoes. Made with a golden roux, chicken broth, and a touch of beef bouillon for depth, this homemade gravy is simple to make on the stovetop and brings comfort food vibes right to your table.
Ingredients
Gravy Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes until the mixture turns golden and fragrant, forming a roux.
- Add Broth Gradually: Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Season the Gravy: Stir in the crushed beef bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Continue whisking well so the flavors combine evenly.
- Simmer and Thicken: Cook the gravy for 5–7 minutes over medium heat, stirring often until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Final Taste and Adjustments: Taste the gravy and add salt if necessary. Remove the saucepan from heat and serve the gravy hot alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- For a richer, deeper flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with beef broth.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the finished gravy before serving.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, use a vegetarian bouillon cube in place of the beef bouillon.
