7 Kidney-Friendly Chicken Gravy Recipes

Chicken gravy recipes are cherished for their comfort and versatility. However, for individuals managing kidney health, it's important to adapt traditional recipes to be low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. Here are seven kidney-friendly chicken gravy recipes tailored to meet those dietary needs:

Kidney-Friendly Classic Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup homemade unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to turn golden brown (this makes a roux).
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
5. Season with black pepper and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Herb-Infused Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary or 1½ teaspoons fresh, chopped
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps for the Classic Chicken Gravy.
2. Add the herbs just before whisking in the broth.
3. Simmer, adjusting seasonings if necessary.

🥄 Note: Thyme and rosemary add flavor without increasing phosphorus content significantly, perfect for kidney health diets.

Spiced Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup unsalted chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic, cook until fragrant.
3. Add spices, then whisk in flour to make a roux.
4. Gradually add stock, whisking until smooth.
5. Simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.

Gluten-Free Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Fresh ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in cornstarch until a paste forms.
3. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer and stir until the gravy thickens.

Mushroom Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pan and sauté mushrooms until they release their moisture.
2. Add flour, stir to coat mushrooms and create a roux.
3. Gradually add broth, stir until well combined.
4. Simmer until gravy is thickened, seasoning with pepper.

Creamy Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup skim milk or low-fat buttermilk
• Fresh ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare roux with butter and flour.
2. Add broth gradually, then simmer.
3. Add milk or buttermilk to create a creamy texture.

Turmeric-Infused Chicken Gravy

• 1 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour to make a roux.
2. Whisk in turmeric and ginger, then add chicken broth gradually.
3. Stir until gravy is smooth and thick.

In wrapping up, these seven kidney-friendly chicken gravy recipes offer a diverse range of flavors while ensuring your dietary needs are met. Whether you prefer a traditional taste or something with a unique twist, these dishes can easily become staples in your cooking routine. Each recipe is designed to minimize sodium, phosphorus, and potassium content, making them suitable for those monitoring their kidney health. Remember to pair these gravies with kidney-friendly sides like white rice or steamed vegetables to complete a balanced meal.

Can I use commercial chicken broth?

+

While convenient, commercial broths often have high sodium content. If you must use them, look for low-sodium options or dilute them with water.

How can I thicken gravy without flour?

+

You can use cornstarch, potato starch, or arrowroot as gluten-free alternatives. Ensure these are mixed with a bit of cold water before adding to the gravy to prevent clumping.

Are there any substitutes for butter in these recipes?

+

Yes, you can use olive oil or a light margarine low in sodium. The flavor might change slightly, but it can still produce a flavorful gravy.