Delicious Canned Chicken Gravy Recipes For Summer Dinner Gatherings

Summer is the perfect time for gatherings with family and friends. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a cozy dinner at home, serving delicious food is essential to creating memorable moments. One ingredient that often gets overlooked but can elevate your summer dinners is canned chicken. Not only is it convenient, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, especially when transformed into flavorful gravies. In this article, we’ll explore some delightful canned chicken gravy recipes that will impress your guests and keep your dinner gatherings hassle-free.

Why Use Canned Chicken?

Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can save you time in the kitchen. It’s cooked and ready to use, making it a perfect base for hearty gravies. Additionally, it has a mild flavor that easily absorbs the spices and seasonings you add, allowing for endless possibilities. Using canned chicken can also help keep your dishes light and perfect for summer dining.

Delicious Canned Chicken Gravy Recipes

1. Creamy Canned Chicken Gravy over Mashed Potatoes

This dish is a classic comfort food that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The creamy gravy complements the fluffy mashed potatoes beautifully.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the drained canned chicken and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and chicken broth until smooth.
5. Pour the broth mixture into the skillet with the chicken, stirring continuously.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Serve the creamy chicken gravy over warm mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley.

2. Canned Chicken and Mushroom Gravy Casserole

This casserole is an easy, one-dish meal perfect for potlucks. The combination of canned chicken and mushrooms creates a flavorful gravy that envelops the rice.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the canned chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, uncooked rice, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and frozen vegetables.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the casserole is bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

3. BBQ Canned Chicken Gravy Sandwiches

These sandwiches are a fun and tasty way to enjoy canned chicken with a summer twist. The BBQ sauce adds a smoky flavor that’s perfect for outdoor dining.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
• 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 sandwich rolls or buns
• 1/2 cup coleslaw (optional)
• Pickles for serving (optional)

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the drained canned chicken, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Stir well and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toast the sandwich rolls if desired.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the BBQ chicken gravy onto the bottom half of the roll.
5. Add coleslaw and pickles if desired, then top with the other half of the roll.
6. Serve immediately while warm.

4. Canned Chicken Gravy Pot Pie

This pot pie is a comforting dish that combines flaky crust with a creamy filling. It’s a great way to use canned chicken for a hearty meal.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the canned chicken, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a pie dish lined with the pie crust.
4. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
5. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Canned Chicken Gravy

When cooking with canned chicken, here are some tips to ensure your dishes turn out perfectly:

• Always drain the canned chicken well to avoid excess liquid in your recipes.
• Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor of your gravy.
• Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance both the presentation and flavor of your dishes.
• Pair your gravy dishes with seasonal sides like grilled vegetables or fresh salads to keep your meals light and refreshing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use homemade chicken instead of canned chicken?

Absolutely! If you have cooked chicken on hand, you can use it in any of these recipes.

2. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

3. Can I freeze canned chicken gravy dishes?

Yes, many of these dishes freeze well. Just be sure to store them in airtight containers and consume them within three months.

4. What can I serve with canned chicken gravy dishes?

These dishes pair well with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Canned chicken gravy recipes are a fantastic option for summer dinner gatherings. They are quick to prepare, comforting, and can be made in large batches to feed a crowd. From creamy gravies over mashed potatoes to delightful pot pies, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and make your summer dining experience enjoyable. So gather your friends and family, and enjoy these delicious meals that highlight the convenience and flavor of canned chicken!