The Best KFC-Style Gravy Recipe to Elevate Your Dinner

Southern kitchens have been buzzing about this incredible kfc-style gravy that promises restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Passionate cooks understand how complex sauce techniques can make or break a meal’s appeal.

Rich, silky textures define this remarkable recipe that mimics the classic fast-food chain’s signature blend.

Whisking skills matter when creating such a smooth, savory accompaniment to crispy chicken or fluffy mashed potatoes.

Home chefs appreciate secrets that elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Meat drippings and strategic seasoning turn an ordinary sauce into a memorable culinary experience.

We bet you cannot wait to master this delectable gravy that will impress everyone at the table.

Pairings for KFC-Style Gravy

  • Pair Perfectly with Crispy Fried Chicken: This rich, savory gravy transforms ordinary fried chicken into a mouthwatering feast by adding deep flavor and moisture to every golden-brown bite.
  • Create Southern-Style Comfort Plate: Ladle the gravy generously over creamy mashed potatoes, creating a classic comfort food combination that delivers ultimate satisfaction and warmth.
  • Match with Hearty Biscuits: Drench freshly baked buttermilk biscuits with this luxurious gravy, allowing the sauce to seep into every flaky layer for an indulgent breakfast or side dish experience.
  • Complement with Bold Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir to balance the gravy's rich, savory profile, cutting through the richness while enhancing the overall meal's depth.

Gravy Flavor Switch-Ups

  • Vegetarian Gravy: Replace chicken and beef broth with rich vegetable broth, adding mushroom powder for deeper umami flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free rice flour to maintain smooth consistency.
  • Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium broths and reduce added salt, enhancing herbs like thyme or rosemary for enhanced taste.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based margarine, keeping the same roux technique and flavor profile.

FAQs

  • What makes the roux important in this gravy recipe?

The roux (butter and flour mixture) creates a thick, smooth base that helps thicken the gravy and prevents lumps from forming, giving the gravy its signature rich and velvety texture.

  • Can I substitute the broths if I don't have chicken and beef broth?

Yes, you can use all chicken broth or vegetable broth, but using both beef and chicken broths gives a deeper, more complex flavor profile that mimics the classic KFC-style gravy.

  • How do I prevent lumps when making the gravy?

Whisk continuously while gradually adding broths and cook the roux for 2-3 minutes before adding liquid. This technique ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy with a silky consistency.

  • Why do I need to simmer the gravy after adding all ingredients?

Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, helps reduce and thicken the gravy, and ensures that the flour is fully cooked, removing any raw flour taste.

Why You’ll Love KFC-Style Gravy

  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up this mouthwatering gravy in mere minutes, transforming ordinary meals into restaurant-worthy delights that will impress family and friends.
  • Versatile Culinary Companion: Perfect for smothering mashed potatoes, drizzling over fried chicken, or adding depth to any comfort food, this gravy is a game-changing recipe for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Budget-Friendly Gourmet Touch: Create a restaurant-quality sauce at home without breaking the bank, using common pantry staples that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What You Need for KFC Gravy

Fat Base:
  • Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that adds delicious flavor.
Thickening Agents:
  • Flour: A key component for creating the perfect gravy texture.
Liquid Base:
  • Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that gives depth to the gravy.
  • Beef Broth: Another flavorful liquid that enhances the overall taste.
Seasonings:
  • Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Dried spices that bring aromatic warmth.
  • Black Pepper: A classic spice that adds a mild kick.
  • Salt: A simple seasoning that balances the gravy's flavors.

How to Make KFC-Style Gravy

Step 1: Melt Butter in Saucepan

Place a medium saucepan on medium heat and gently melt the butter until it becomes smooth and liquid.

Step 2: Create Golden Roux

Sprinkle flour into the melted butter and whisk vigorously.

Keep stirring and cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, creating a perfect roux base.

Step 3: Pour Chicken Broth Smoothly

Slowly add chicken broth into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent any lumpy formations.

Maintain a steady stream while mixing.

Step 4: Blend Beef Broth

Pour beef broth into the saucepan, continuing to whisk until the liquids combine seamlessly into a silky mixture.

Step 5: Season the Gravy

Add the following seasonings:
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper
  • Pinch of salt

Stir all seasonings thoroughly into the liquid.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally.

Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy reaches a rich, thick consistency.

Step 7: Final Taste Adjustment

Taste the gravy and add extra salt or pepper if needed to enhance the flavor profile.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the hot, savory gravy over your favorite dishes and savor the delicious KFC-style result.

Pro Tips for Homemade Gravy

  • Prevent lumps by gradually adding broth and continuously whisking the roux for a smooth, silky gravy texture.
  • Cook the butter and flour mixture until lightly golden to develop a rich, nutty flavor without burning.
  • Adjust salt and pepper carefully to enhance the gravy's depth without overpowering the natural chicken and beef broth flavors.
  • Let the gravy simmer for the full 5-7 minutes to achieve the ideal thickness and allow flavors to meld together.
  • Prepare the gravy in advance and reheat gently, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth consistency.

Storing & Reheating KFC Gravy

  • Store leftover KFC-style gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Warm gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy seems too thick.
  • Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
  • Pour cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Kfc-Style Gravy Recipe


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4.5 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Elevate meal time with this KFC-style gravy, a rich and savory sauce that delivers classic Southern comfort. Creamy, peppery, and packed with deep flavor, this recipe brings restaurant-quality goodness right to your kitchen for you to savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Thickening Agent:

  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Prepare a medium saucepan and set it over medium heat to create the foundational layer for a rich, velvety gravy.
  2. Gently melt the butter until it transforms into a silky, golden liquid with a delicate sheen.
  3. Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking vigorously to form a smooth, pale roux that will serve as the gravy’s thickening agent.
  4. Continue stirring the roux for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to develop a light golden color and release a subtle nutty aroma.
  5. Slowly introduce chicken broth into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent any lumpy formations and ensure a silky-smooth texture.
  6. Follow the chicken broth with beef broth, incorporating it gradually while maintaining a consistent whisking motion.
  7. Enhance the gravy’s depth of flavor by adding onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and a precise pinch of salt.
  8. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken and develop its complex flavor profile.
  9. Stir the gravy occasionally, watching as it transforms into a luxurious, glossy sauce with a rich, consistent texture.
  10. After 5-7 minutes, assess the gravy’s seasoning, adjusting with additional salt and pepper to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
  11. Transfer the piping hot gravy to a serving vessel, ready to elevate your favorite culinary creations with its robust and comforting essence.

Notes

  • Master the roux by cooking flour and butter together until it turns a light golden color, which develops a rich, nutty flavor without burning.
  • Whisk broth gradually and consistently to prevent lumpy gravy, ensuring a smooth, silky texture that coats the back of a spoon perfectly.
  • Experiment with broth ratios: try using more chicken broth for a lighter flavor or increase beef broth for deeper, more robust taste profile.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend, maintaining the same thickening technique.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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