Name: The Best KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (or 1 crushed cube); 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder (or 1 crushed cube); 2 cups water (or 1 cup chicken broth + 1 cup beef broth); Salt and pepper, to taste

The Best KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe

Homemade KFC-style brown gravy in a saucepan with a whisk

March 4, 2025

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There’s something magical about that rich, savory, velvety brown gravy you get with a KFC meal. Whether it’s poured generously over creamy mashed potatoes or used as a dip for crispy chicken, it’s that nostalgic flavor that makes comfort food feel complete. But what if I told you that you could recreate that same iconic taste in your own kitchen—without a deep fryer, without a drive-thru, and with ingredients you already have in your pantry?

This KFC gravy copycat recipe captures all the goodness of the original: the deep umami, the perfect consistency, and that unmistakable flavor that makes you go back for seconds. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying enough to make you skip the fast food line for good. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or need a last-minute sauce to elevate a weekday meal, this gravy is your secret weapon.

Why You’ll Love This KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe

Key Benefits

This recipe doesn’t just imitate the original—it nails it. You’ll get that same salty-savory depth and perfect texture in less than 10 minutes. And here’s the kicker: it uses ingredients you already have in your pantry. That means no fancy store runs and no expensive equipment. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, chicken tenders, or even fries, this gravy is versatile enough to complement just about anything on your plate.

Suitable For

Comfort food lovers, rejoice. This gravy is tailor-made for cozy nights, family dinners, or even last-minute cravings. It’s perfect for beginner cooks who want something delicious and foolproof, as well as seasoned home chefs looking for a quick and dependable sidekick. If you’re on a budget or just short on time, this recipe checks all the boxes—easy, affordable, and delicious.

Ingredients for KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe

Core Ingredients

To create the magic, you need just a few humble pantry staples:

Butter – for richness and a smooth texture.
All-purpose flour – creates the roux that thickens your gravy.
Onion powder – adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Garlic powder – gives it that irresistible savory note.
Chicken bouillon – forms the base flavor.
Beef bouillon – adds color and a boost of umami.
Water (or broth) – ties everything together into a smooth sauce.
Salt and pepper – simple but essential for balance.

These simple ingredients, when brought together with care, create a gravy that rivals the original in every way.

Substitutions and Tips

If you want to kick the flavor up a notch, use chicken drippings instead of butter—it adds a beautiful depth and a hint of roasted goodness. Want a creamier version? A splash of milk or cream stirred in at the end does the trick. For a vegetarian twist, just swap out the bouillon for your favorite veggie version.

And here’s a great tip if you’re cooking gluten-free: replace the flour with cornstarch. Just mix 2 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, and use that instead of the roux.

Best Bouillon for KFC Gravy

One of the key secrets behind that KFC-style flavor is using both chicken and beef bouillon. Chicken gives the classic base while beef brings the color and depth that make this gravy so craveable. Powders and cubes both work, but cubes tend to deliver a more concentrated flavor. And if you find yourself short on beef bouillon, a dash of dark soy sauce can help mimic that deeper color and savory hit.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this gravy. A basic saucepan, a whisk, measuring spoons, and a ladle will get the job done beautifully.

Nice-to-Have Tools

If you’re aiming for an ultra-smooth finish, run the gravy through a fine mesh strainer just before serving. And if you’re feeling fancy or serving guests, a sauce boat always adds a touch of elegance to the table.

How to Make KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Make the Roux

Start by melting the butter in your saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Keep whisking for 2–3 minutes until the mixture turns a warm golden color and smells nutty—this step builds the base flavor, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Once your roux is ready, stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, chicken bouillon, and beef bouillon. Let them cook together with the roux for a minute or two so the flavors can bloom in the fat. This step is where the real magic starts.

Step 3: Whisk in Water or Broth

Now comes the key to smooth gravy: add the liquid slowly while whisking constantly. Pour in about half the water first, whisk until smooth, then add the rest. This prevents any lumps from forming and helps the gravy thicken evenly.

Step 4: Simmer and Adjust

Let your gravy simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring often to keep it smooth and prevent sticking. You’ll see it thicken up into that perfect velvety consistency. Once it’s just right, give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Tips for Success

Keep the roux golden, not dark. A burned roux will make the whole batch taste bitter.
Use hot water or broth. It speeds up thickening and blends more easily with the roux.
Adjust the thickness. If the gravy gets too thick, just whisk in a bit of water. If it’s too thin, keep it on the stove for another minute or two.
Strain if needed. For the smoothest possible texture, strain your gravy before serving. It’s optional, but totally worth it.

How to Store KFC Gravy

Leftovers? No problem. This gravy is just as good the next day—maybe even better. If you’re not serving it right away, you can store it and reheat without losing that silky texture or deep flavor.

At Room Temperature

If you’re keeping it out for serving, try to use it within two hours. After that, it’s best to transfer it to the fridge to stay safe and fresh.

In the Refrigerator

Pour your leftover gravy into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and whisk to bring it back to life. It’ll be just as smooth and delicious as the first time.

Freezing Tips

Yes, you can freeze gravy. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly, whisking as it warms up. Add water as needed to restore the perfect consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use only chicken bouillon?

Absolutely. If you only have chicken bouillon, the gravy will still taste great—it just won’t have that darker, deeper flavor that beef bouillon brings. If you’re looking to add a little extra oomph, a small splash of dark soy sauce can mimic the color and give you that extra hit of umami.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s a great make-ahead option for busy meals. You can prepare the gravy up to 3–4 days in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to use it, reheat on the stove and whisk in a bit of water to loosen it back to the right texture.

What if I don’t have flour?

No flour? No problem. You can thicken your gravy with cornstarch instead. Just mix 2 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then add it to your hot liquid while whisking. It’ll thicken quickly and give you that same glossy finish.

Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?

You sure can. Swap out the chicken and beef bouillon for vegetable bouillon, and use plant-based butter. The texture and richness will still shine through. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

How do I get that exact KFC texture?

That silky-smooth consistency is all about two things: constant whisking and straining. After your gravy has thickened, run it through a fine mesh strainer for the smoothest possible result. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, especially if you’re going for that KFC-style finish.

Related Recipes

If you loved this KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe, you might also enjoy these comforting classics from RecipeSeasys:

Lasagna Soup – A cozy and hearty twist on the traditional pasta dish.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham – A creamy, baked side that pairs perfectly with this gravy.
Chicken Mushroom Pasta – A satisfying, savory dish that would benefit from a ladle of gravy on top.
Shake and Bake Chicken Breast – Crispy oven-fried chicken ideal for gravy smothering.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup – For more cozy comfort food with rich, savory depth.

Conclusion

This KFC Gravy Copycat Recipe is everything you love about fast food gravy—but made in your own kitchen, with ingredients you trust. It’s quick, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or fresh-from-the-oven biscuits, this gravy brings a little extra magic to any meal.

Give it a try and see for yourself just how easy and delicious homemade gravy can be. And don’t forget to share your own twists or favorite pairings—this is one recipe that’s meant to be enjoyed, passed around, and made your own.