Let me tell you, there’s something magical about coming home to the smell of crockpot shredded chicken gravy over mashed potatoes bubbling away. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! This dish has become a go-to in my house because it’s not just comforting; it’s incredibly easy to whip up. I love how the crockpot does all the heavy lifting, letting the flavors mingle and deepen while I get on with my day. You just toss in a few ingredients, set the timer, and forget about it until mealtime. And when it’s finally time to eat, you’re greeted with tender chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy, all served on a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes. Trust me, you’re going to want to dive right in!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze for this comforting dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for shredding later on.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and depth to the gravy—use low-sodium if you prefer!
- 1 packet ranch seasoning: This brings a burst of flavor; it’s my secret weapon!
- 1 packet gravy mix: Just the right amount to thicken and enhance the sauce.
- 4 cups mashed potatoes: Homemade or store-bought, you can’t go wrong here. They’re the perfect base!
- Salt and pepper: To taste, because we all have our preferences!
Feel free to get creative! You can add in some veggies like carrots or peas if you’re in the mood. Just remember to adjust your seasonings as needed!
How to Prepare Crockpot Shredded Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of making this cozy dish! It’s as simple as pie—well, easier actually—and it all comes together in your trusty crockpot.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, let’s get those chicken breasts in the crockpot! Just place them right in there, making sure they’re laid out flat. This way, they’ll cook evenly and soak up all that delicious broth and seasoning. No need to fuss about cutting or trimming; let the crockpot work its magic!
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
Next up, pour that lovely 1 cup of chicken broth over the chicken. This is key to keeping everything moist and flavorful! Then, grab your ranch seasoning packet and sprinkle it evenly on top, followed by the gravy mix. Make sure everything is nicely coated—give it a gentle stir if you like, just to blend those flavors a bit. It’s simple, but oh-so-effective!
Step 3: Cooking Time
Now, set your crockpot to low and let it work for about 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Just peek in there and take a whiff—you’ll be in comfort food heaven!
Step 4: Shredding the Chicken
Once the chicken is tender, it’s time to shred! Use two forks right in the crockpot to pull apart the chicken. Mix it right into that luscious gravy, letting all that flavor soak in. Don’t be shy—get in there and make sure every bit of chicken is coated!
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Alright, now it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for: serving! Grab those fluffy mashed potatoes and spoon that heavenly chicken gravy right on top. You can garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color or even some shredded cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Dive in, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Toss everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it! It’s perfect for busy days.
- Rich, Savory Flavors: The combination of ranch seasoning and gravy creates a mouthwatering taste that your family will love.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like digging into tender chicken and creamy gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Gluten-Free Option: With a simple swap for gluten-free gravy mix, everyone can enjoy this dish without worry!
- Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or spices to make it your own—this recipe is a great canvas!
This dish truly checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that brings everyone together at the table. You’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Tips for Success
To really nail this crockpot shredded chicken gravy over mashed potatoes, here are my top tips! First, make sure your chicken breasts are fully submerged in the chicken broth. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all that delicious flavor! If you’re planning to add veggies, toss them in with the chicken to let them cook down nicely—carrots and peas are fantastic choices.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings before serving! Everyone has different preferences, so a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference. Also, if you want your gravy a bit thicker, feel free to add an extra sprinkle of gravy mix towards the end. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your dish to comfort food perfection!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for crockpot shredded chicken gravy over mashed potatoes. Each serving is about 1 cup and contains:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 4g
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Always feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs!
FAQ Section
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish even heartier. I love tossing in some diced carrots or peas for a pop of color and flavor. You could also try adding chopped potatoes or green beans—both work wonderfully! Just add them in with the chicken at the start, and they’ll cook down perfectly as everything simmers away in the crockpot.
How do I store leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, just let the chicken gravy cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quicker option—just make sure to cover it to avoid splatters!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just toss those frozen breasts directly into the crockpot—no need to thaw. However, be aware that this might extend the cooking time a bit, so aim for around 8 to 10 hours on low. Keep an eye on it, and check for tenderness to ensure it shreds easily. It’s a perfect time-saver when you’re short on prep time!
Equipment List
Getting started on this crockpot shredded chicken gravy over mashed potatoes is super easy with the right tools! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crockpot: The star of the show! A 6-quart size works perfectly for this recipe.
- Measuring cups: To accurately measure your broth and other ingredients.
- Mixing utensils: A spoon for stirring and two forks for shredding the chicken.
- Cutting board: If you’re prepping veggies, this is a must-have!
- Serving dish: To present your delicious chicken and gravy over those fluffy mashed potatoes.
With these essentials, you’ll be all set to create a comforting meal that everyone will love!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
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Crockpot Shredded Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Bliss
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot shredded chicken gravy served over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 packet gravy mix
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add ranch seasoning and gravy mix.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot.
- Mix the shredded chicken with the gravy.
- Serve over prepared mashed potatoes.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like carrots or peas if desired.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot shredded chicken gravy over mashed potatoes