Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes

Few meals can match the sheer comfort of shredded chicken gravy poured over buttery mashed potatoes. This classic dish is rich, flavorful, and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or large gatherings. Whether you prefer to cook it slowly in a Crockpot or need a quicker Instant Pot method, this dish is versatile and customizable to your taste.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to make this delicious comfort food, cover variations, and provide tips for serving, storing, and even making a healthier version.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken Gravy

To create the perfect shredded chicken gravy, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Chicken breasts or thighs: Both work well, though thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the gravy.
Chicken broth: Helps thin the gravy while adding moisture and taste.
Gravy mix or seasonings: For additional flavor and to thicken the sauce.
Garlic powder, salt, and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor.

For variations, you can add:

Creamy Ranch Chicken Gravy: Simply stir in a ranch seasoning packet for added tanginess.
Mushroom Chicken Gravy: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or substitute cream of mushroom soup for an earthy, savory kick.

Cooking Methods: Crockpot or Instant Pot

There are two main methods to prepare shredded chicken gravy: the traditional Crockpot method and the quicker Instant Pot version.

Crockpot Method:

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then place it in the crockpot.
Mix the gravy: Combine the cream of chicken soup, broth, and gravy mix.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the gravy for a final simmer.

Instant Pot Method:

Sauté the chicken briefly in the Instant Pot.
Add the gravy ingredients and lock the lid.
Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, then naturally release the pressure.
Shred the chicken once tender and let it soak in the gravy.

Mastering the Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are the foundation for this dish. Here’s how to make them perfectly creamy:

Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for a balance of creaminess and fluffiness.
Don’t skimp on the butter and cream: These provide richness and a smooth texture.
Season generously: Salt and pepper are key for flavor. You can also add roasted garlic or herbs.

For a low-carb option, try mashed cauliflower, which pairs beautifully with the rich, savory gravy.

How to Serve Shredded Chicken Gravy

When the chicken and mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to bring the dish together:

Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates or a serving dish.
Top with shredded chicken and gravy, making sure to coat the chicken evenly.
Add sides like green beans, peas, or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This dish stores well, making it a great option for meal prepping or freezing for later use.

Store chicken and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze the potatoes separately to maintain their texture.
When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to the gravy to keep it from becoming too thick.

Healthier Variations

If you’re looking to lighten up this meal, there are several options to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup to cut down on salt and fat.
Replace mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower to lower the carb count.
Opt for olive oil instead of butter to cut down on saturated fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your shredded chicken gravy turns out perfectly every time:

Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long will make the chicken dry. Stick to 6-8 hours on low heat in the crockpot or the recommended time in the Instant Pot.
Under-seasoning: The gravy relies heavily on seasoning, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as needed.
Too-thin gravy: If your gravy isn’t thick enough, you can use a cornstarch slurry or a bit of flour to thicken it.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shreddable.

Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs are often juicier and more flavorful, though they may require slightly longer cooking times.

How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If the gravy is too thin, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into the gravy.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy, savory flavors are perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Whether you opt for a classic version or try a fun variation like ranch chicken gravy or mushroom gravy, this dish is sure to please. Don’t forget to experiment with the serving suggestions and healthy alternatives to make it your own.

By following this guide, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, whether you’re using the Crockpot or Instant Pot. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or add sides for a complete and hearty dinner!

Sharing is Caring Guys !