Few meals comfort the soul like a generous helping of Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes. This recipe offers tender shredded chicken bathed in a rich, creamy gravy, served over velvety mashed potatoes. With minimal effort required, this crockpot dish makes an ideal choice for family dinners, meal prep, or any time you’re craving hearty, no-fuss comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Gravy:
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 cans water (use the soup cans for measuring)
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix
- 2 packs chicken breasts (about 2-3 pounds)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Instant mashed potatoes (prepared according to package instructions)
- OR homemade mashed potatoes with butter for extra flavor
Optional Seasonings:
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
- In your crockpot, combine the cream of chicken soup, water, and chicken gravy packets.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken directly into the crockpot, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the gravy mixture.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- The chicken will be tender and easy to shred when done.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, mixing it into the gravy to coat it thoroughly.
Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- If using instant mashed potatoes, follow the package instructions.
- For homemade mashed potatoes, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the shredded chicken and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for presentation, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this dish with sides like warm dinner rolls, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a complete meal.
- A dollop of cranberry sauce or a tangy side salad complements the richness of the gravy.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep mashed potatoes in a separate container for the same duration.
Freezing Tips:
- Freeze the shredded chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, freeze mashed potatoes separately, as they may change texture upon reheating.
Reheating Suggestions:
- Reheat chicken and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Warm mashed potatoes on the stove with a touch of butter or milk to restore creaminess.
Variations and Additions
1. Cheesy Chicken Gravy:
Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist.
2. Spicy Chicken Gravy:
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for some heat.
3. Vegetable-Loaded Gravy:
Incorporate diced carrots, peas, or green beans into the crockpot to make this dish more nutritious.
4. Mushroom Chicken Gravy:
Add sliced mushrooms or substitute one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for earthy depth.
5. Garlic Herb Chicken Gravy:
Enhance the flavors with fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with extra garlic powder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken cooks through.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and add extra flavor, though they may require slightly longer cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe with leftover chicken?
Yes. Add shredded cooked chicken to the gravy mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat it through.
4. Can I make this dish healthier?
Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and gravy packets, and opt for mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.
5. How do I thicken the gravy?
Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the crockpot and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Conclusion
Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes delivers all the flavors of comfort food with the convenience of a slow cooker. With tender chicken, creamy gravy, and fluffy mashed potatoes, this dish is ideal for weeknights, holidays, or any time you need a cozy meal. Easy to customize and perfect for leftovers, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Serve it hot and savor the comfort in every bite!