A warm, rustic kitchen table scene featuring a bowl of rich brown gravy with steam rising from it. A ladle is mid-pour, drizzling the smooth, velvety gravy into a white gravy boat. Around the bowl are classic comfort foods: creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, crispy golden fried chicken, flaky buttermilk biscuits, and golden French fries. The gravy has a glossy finish with visible flecks of black pepper. Soft, warm lighting enhances the cozy atmosphere, with a red-and-white checkered cloth and a wooden spoon adding a homestyle touch.

KFC-Style Gravy Recipe: Rich, Savory, and Seriously Addictive

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There’s something undeniably comforting about that signature brown gravy from KFC—smooth, savory, and with just the right amount of peppery kick. Whether you’re pouring it over mashed potatoes, dunking your chicken tenders, or sipping it straight from a spoon (we won’t judge), this homemade version comes impressively close to the real deal.

⭐ What Makes KFC Gravy So Special?

KFC gravy is legendary because it’s:

  • Rich in flavor thanks to a roux made from meat drippings or bouillon

  • Smooth and velvety in texture

  • Perfectly seasoned with black pepper and savory spices

This recipe mimics that signature flavor with common kitchen ingredients and a few pro tips to boost authenticity.

📝 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for about 2 cups of gravy:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp meat drippings if you have them)

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)

  • 1 chicken bouillon cube (or 1 tsp bouillon powder)

  • 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp beef bouillon powder)

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)

  • Salt, to taste (optional)

Pro Tip: The combo of chicken and beef bouillon is what gives the gravy its deep, meaty flavor like KFC’s blend.

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make a Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter (or butter + drippings). Add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture turns golden brown and starts to smell nutty (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 2: Add the Stock and Bouillon

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Then add the bouillon cubes or powders, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Continue whisking and let the gravy simmer for about 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste your gravy—add more pepper for heat or a pinch of salt if needed. If it’s too thick, whisk in a little more stock or water.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This gravy is the ultimate pairing for:

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Fried chicken

  • Biscuits

  • French fries

  • Poutine-style dishes

🧊 Storage Tips

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently while whisking to restore texture.

👨‍🍳 Final Thoughts

While the exact KFC gravy recipe remains a tightly guarded secret, this copycat version is about as close as you can get without raiding the Colonel’s vault. It’s warm, cozy, and totally crave-worthy—perfect for your next comfort food feast.

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