There’s something about a warm, savory gravy that just feels like a hug for your dinner plate. But sometimes, the rich, heavy gravies can leave you feeling a bit too full or guilty. That’s where this low calorie chicken gravy steps in—it’s a lighter take that still carries that deep, comforting flavor you crave. Making it feels like a quiet moment in the kitchen, with the gentle sizzle of shallots and garlic in olive oil filling the air while you whisk gently, watching it thicken to just the right consistency. I remember once trying to perfect this recipe late on a busy weekday evening, distracted by a ringing phone and the hum of the dishwasher. Somehow, the gravy still came together, smooth and fragrant, proving you don’t have to be perfect to nail a simple, satisfying dish.
It’s those little kitchen moments—sometimes a bit messy or distracted—that make homemade food feel real and worth savoring. This gravy isn’t about fuss or fancy techniques; it’s about enhancing your meals with something light and delicious that you can whip up without a second thought.
Why You’ll Love It
- Light but flavorful—this gravy won’t weigh you down, making it great for those who want comfort without the heaviness.
- Quick to prepare—taking less than 15 minutes from start to finish means you can add a touch of homemade goodness any day of the week.
- Simple ingredients—nothing complicated or hard to find, so you’re not stuck with a long shopping list.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, no thick layers of butter or cream, just straightforward flavor.
If you’re a bit wary about sauces that promise lightness but sacrifice taste, this one might just surprise you. A little patience with the gentle simmer and whisking does wonders here.
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Low Calorie Chicken Gravy
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6
Description
A light and flavorful low calorie chicken gravy made with simple ingredients, perfect for enhancing your meals without the extra calories.
Ingredients
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 small shallot, finely minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced shallot and garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove from heat and taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
Serve warm over chicken or your favorite dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need fancy gadgets for this gravy—just a good pan and a whisk. It goes beautifully over roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or even steamed veggies if you want to keep things really light. I’ve sometimes tossed in a pinch of fresh herbs when I had them on hand—rosemary or sage can add an earthy twist, but I haven’t tested all the variations thoroughly. If you want to make it vegan, swapping chicken broth for veggie broth works well, though the flavor will obviously shift a bit.
FAQ
Can I make this gravy ahead of time? Yes, it stores well in the fridge for a few days—just reheat gently and stir to keep it smooth.
Is it thick enough for mashed potatoes? It thickens nicely but stays light; if you want it thicker, a tiny extra bit of cornstarch can help.
Can I use regular chicken broth? Sure, but low sodium helps you control the saltiness better.
Will it freeze well? I haven’t frozen it myself, but it might separate; reheating gently while whisking should bring it back.
Give this low calorie chicken gravy a try next time you want that cozy, homemade feel without the heaviness. It’s quick, simple, and just right for those dinners where you want comfort without the extra calories.