KFC Style Water Gravy

This KFC-style water gravy captures that smooth, savory flavor you love from the famous fried chicken chain. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients — butter, flour, broth (or water), and a few seasonings — to create a rich, golden gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or fried chicken. The secret is in the slow stirring and seasoning balance, which gives it that unmistakable fast-food-style taste at home.

My mom used to call this her “cheater gravy,” because it was the quickest way to bring a comfort meal together without needing drippings or fancy ingredients. I remember her whisking it in a small pot after frying chicken, and somehow, it always turned out silky and flavorful. Later I realized it was inspired by KFC’s signature gravy — and now, whenever I make it, that same nostalgic aroma fills the kitchen.

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Recipe Info

Cuisine: Southern / American Comfort Food
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~60 per serving

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Ingredients

• 4 tbsp butter (or 3 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp oil)
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups hot water or chicken broth
• 1 chicken or beef bouillon cube (if using water)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional: ¼ tsp poultry seasoning or a pinch of sage for a deeper flavor

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Instructions

1. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2–3 minutes until it turns light golden brown. This step builds flavor and prevents a raw flour taste.

2. Add the Liquid
Slowly pour in the hot water or broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. If using water, crumble in the bouillon cube.

3. Season and Thicken
Add black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir over medium heat for another 3–5 minutes, until the gravy thickens and turns smooth and glossy.

4. Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of water or milk. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, or biscuits.

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Pro Tips

• Toast the roux until it’s golden brown for that deep KFC-style flavor.
• Use a whisk the entire time — it keeps the texture silky.
• For a creamier version, swap ½ cup of water with milk.
• You can double the batch and store leftovers for quick meals.

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Storage Notes

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
• Freeze: Can be frozen up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently while whisking.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this without broth or bouillon?
A: Yes, but it will be lighter in flavor. Add extra seasoning or a bit of soy sauce to boost depth.

Q: Why is my gravy lumpy?
A: Usually from adding liquid too quickly. Add water slowly while whisking constantly to keep it smooth.

Q: How do I make it darker like KFC’s gravy?
A: Toast the flour longer before adding liquid — the deeper the roux color, the richer the gravy.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use vegetable broth or water with a veggie bouillon cube.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Over mashed potatoes, fried chicken, biscuits, or even as a dip for fries.