Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

What Is Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes?

What Is Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes?

When you think of comfort food, this dish is likely one of the first to come to mind. Shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes is a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that brings together a few classic ingredients. At its core, this dish features tender shredded chicken swimming in a flavorful chicken gravy, served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

The beauty of this meal lies in its versatility. You can make the gravy from scratch or use a packet for a quick and easy version. The chicken can be cooked in various ways—stovetop, slow cooker, or even Instant Pot. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort, whether you’re having it for dinner after a long day or serving it at a family gathering.

Why People Love This Dish

There’s something about shredded chicken paired with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes that just feels like a warm hug. It’s a meal that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also satisfying in a way that few other dishes can match. Whether it’s for a busy weekday dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to feed the whole family without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Shredded Chicken Gravy

Before you can get cooking, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients. Luckily, making shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes doesn’t require a long list of fancy items. Here’s what you’ll need for the base of the dish:

• Chicken: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts are a go-to for their mild flavor and tenderness when shredded, but thighs can be a great option if you want a slightly richer taste.
• Gravy: You can either use store-bought chicken gravy mix or whip up a homemade gravy. If you’re short on time, the gravy packet will work just fine, but for that extra comfort food magic, homemade gravy takes the meal to the next level.
• Mashed Potatoes: You’ll want some creamy mashed potatoes to complete the dish. These can be homemade or prepared, depending on how much time you have.

Optional Ingredients and Add-ins

To make this meal even more flavorful, consider adding some optional ingredients like:

• Cream of Chicken Soup: This is a great addition if you want the gravy to have a thicker, creamier texture.
• Herbs & Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme will give your chicken and gravy that extra flavor boost.
• Vegetables: Carrots, peas, or corn can be mixed in for added nutrition and color.

Preparing Shredded Chicken

How to Cook Chicken for Shredding

The key to making shredded chicken that’s tender and juicy is all about how you cook it. Whether you’re using a stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, there are several ways to get the chicken cooked just right for shredding. Let’s break it down:

Stovetop Method

For stovetop cooking, start by heating a little oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like (garlic powder and paprika work wonders!). Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown. Then, add some chicken broth or water to the pan, cover it, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Slow Cooker Method

If you prefer hands-off cooking, the slow cooker is the way to go. Check out some of our favorite slow cooker chicken recipes for more inspiration. Add your chicken (seasoned, of course) to the slow cooker, along with a bit of chicken broth or water. Let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once it’s done, you’ll be able to shred it effortlessly with a fork.

Instant Pot Method

For a faster option, the Instant Pot works wonders. Season your chicken and add it to the pot with some broth or water. Set it to pressure cook for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release. Once the chicken is tender, shred it with two forks, and you’re good to go!

Best Tools for Shredding Chicken

Shredding chicken doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can easily do it with two forks, pulling the chicken apart. However, if you want to save time, using a stand mixer or hand mixer works wonders! Just place the cooked chicken in the mixing bowl, turn on the mixer, and in seconds, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken ready to be topped with gravy.

Making the Gravy

Homemade vs. Store-bought Gravy

When it comes to gravy, you’ve got options: you can either go the homemade route or take a shortcut with a store-bought packet. Both work well, but if you’ve got the time, homemade gravy can add that extra layer of flavor that makes your meal feel truly special.

Store-bought Gravy

If you’re in a rush, don’t feel bad about using store-bought gravy. There are some great options out there that are just as satisfying and save you a ton of time. Simply follow the instructions on the packet, and you’ve got a smooth, savory gravy in minutes. Look for options that use natural ingredients for the best flavor.

Homemade Gravy

Homemade gravy is a game-changer when it comes to shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes. It’s not as hard as you might think, and you can customize it to your liking. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A splash of cream for extra richness

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Let the gravy simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and for an extra creamy touch, stir in a little heavy cream.

How to Thicken Gravy for Mashed Potatoes

No one wants a runny gravy, so it’s essential to get the consistency just right. If your gravy is too thin, there are a couple of tricks to help thicken it:

• Flour or Cornstarch Slurry: Mix equal parts flour or cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Add this to your simmering gravy to thicken it.
• Simmer Longer: If you’ve got time, simply let the gravy simmer for a little longer to reduce and thicken naturally.

Preparing Mashed Potatoes

Best Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes

The key to creamy, smooth mashed potatoes starts with selecting the right type of potato. You can find some of the best potato varieties and techniques for perfect mashed potatoes on this guide. While there are many varieties, for the best texture and flavor, you’ll want to go with either Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes.

• Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to for most mashed potato recipes. They have a high starch content, which gives them that fluffy, smooth texture once mashed.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are a bit waxier than Russets, but they have a buttery flavor that makes for richer mashed potatoes. They’ll still give you a creamy result, but with a slightly denser texture.

Either option will work well for your shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes, so feel free to choose based on your personal preference!

Classic Mashed Potato Recipe

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started. It’s simple but yields creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes every time.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk (or more for creamier potatoes)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.
2. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and mash until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish

Layering Shredded Chicken and Gravy on Mashed Potatoes

The magic happens when all the components come together to create a comforting, satisfying plate. Here’s how to assemble your shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes for the best experience:

1. Start with a Generous Bed of Mashed Potatoes

Begin by placing a hefty serving of your creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl. Use a spoon to spread it out evenly. The mashed potatoes should form a nice base, ready to hold the flavorful shredded chicken and gravy.

2. Add the Shredded Chicken

Next, take your shredded chicken (cooked and tender from your earlier steps) and spoon it generously over the mashed potatoes. Make sure to spread it evenly so that every bite has a good amount of chicken.

3. Top with Gravy

Finally, ladle the warm gravy over the chicken. Be generous! The gravy is what ties everything together and brings all those comforting flavors to life. You can add as much or as little gravy as you like, but we recommend going for a nice, even coat.

4. Optional Garnishes

For added flavor, texture, and color, consider garnishing your dish with:

• Freshly chopped parsley or thyme
• A sprinkle of black pepper
• Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions

The great thing about this dish is that it’s easily customizable. If you like your mashed potatoes extra buttery or want to kick up the flavor of the gravy, feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes.

Variations and Tips for Customizing the Dish

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make this dish uniquely yours. Here are some fun variations to mix things up:

1. Add Vegetables

Add some veggies to your mashed potatoes or gravy to make the dish even more nutritious and flavorful. Consider adding:

• Peas or Corn: These can be stirred into the mashed potatoes for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
• Carrots: Sautéed or roasted carrots can be added to the gravy for extra texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
• Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach can be stirred into the gravy just before serving, adding a burst of green and extra nutrients.

2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

If you’re a cheese lover, why not elevate your mashed potatoes with some cheese? Stir in a bit of cheddar cheese, parmesan, or cream cheese for a richer, creamier base. The cheese will add a savory depth to the potatoes that complements the chicken and gravy perfectly.

3. Spicy Kick

If you’re craving some heat, adding a bit of spice can take your dish to a whole new level. Here are a few ways to add a little fire:

• Jalapeños: Slice up some fresh jalapeños and mix them into the gravy for a spicy kick.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot, can be added to either the chicken or gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: A sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the gravy can provide a subtle heat without overwhelming the dish.

4. Swap Chicken for Turkey

For a Thanksgiving-inspired twist, try swapping the chicken for shredded turkey. The flavor of turkey with the savory gravy pairs just as well with mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

• Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time! Store the shredded chicken, gravy, and mashed potatoes separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat everything and assemble as usual.
• Leftover Options: If you have leftovers, consider using the shredded chicken and gravy as a topping for a hot sandwich or in a casserole.

FAQs: Common Questions about Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, absolutely! While shredded chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it for other proteins. Turkey works great as a substitute, especially during the holidays. Alternatively, shredded beef or pork can also work well with the gravy and mashed potatoes, giving the dish a different, yet equally delicious flavor profile.

2. How do I keep the mashed potatoes from getting too watery?

The key to avoiding watery mashed potatoes is using the right potatoes (like Russets or Yukon Gold) and not overcooking them. When boiling the potatoes, make sure they’re not left in the water too long. Drain them thoroughly, and be sure to mash them while they’re still hot. If you’re worried about the potatoes getting too runny, gradually add the milk or cream and stop once you achieve the right texture.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes ahead of time. The mashed potatoes can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shredded chicken and gravy can also be made ahead and refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything and assemble. This makes it a great meal for meal prep or even holiday gatherings!

4. Can I freeze leftover chicken gravy and mashed potatoes?

Both chicken gravy and mashed potatoes freeze well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure to heat the gravy slowly over low heat and stir frequently to maintain its smooth texture.

5. What can I serve with shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or bread rolls to complete the meal.