There’s something so incredibly comforting about a warm plate of shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes. I swear, it feels like a big hug on a chilly day! This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, it brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. The rich, savory gravy draping over the fluffy mashed potatoes creates a perfect harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s such a versatile dish that you can whip up quickly using leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird from the store. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for those nights when you need to feel warm and fuzzy inside. Let’s dive into making this delightful comfort food!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty dish of shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes. I’ve kept it simple and straightforward, so you can easily gather everything before you start cooking!
- 2 cups shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie works great!)
- 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening that luscious gravy)
- 1/4 cup butter (because, yes, butter makes everything better!)
- 1 onion, chopped (for that sweet, savory flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds a lovely aromatic touch)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy!)
- Pepper to taste (a little kick never hurt anyone)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (creamy, fluffy goodness is a must!)
How to Prepare Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes
Making shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes is a breeze, and I promise it’ll become a beloved dish in your home! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Let it bubble, but don’t let it brown too much—you want that rich buttery flavor without the burnt bits!
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Oh, the smell is divine!
- Once the onion and garlic are ready, sprinkle in the flour. Stir it around for about a minute to cook off that raw flour taste. It should form a nice roux!
- Now, gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This is key to avoid those pesky lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to thicken—it usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once it’s thick and smooth, stir in the shredded chicken. Give it a good mix, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust as you go!
- Let everything simmer on low for a few minutes to heat through and let those flavors meld together.
- Finally, serve this heavenly gravy over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. Dig in while it’s hot, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, I want to give you a heads-up that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a typical breakdown per serving of this delicious shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
It’s a hearty dish that’s not only comforting but also packs a good amount of protein to keep you feeling satisfied!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, savory flavor that warms your soul with every bite.
- Comforting and filling, making it a family favorite.
- Versatile—great for using up leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird.
- Simple ingredients come together for a satisfying meal.
- Can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings or sides.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes turns out perfectly every time!
- Use leftover chicken: It’s a total time-saver! If you have any rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken, just shred it up and you’re good to go.
- Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste as you cook! Depending on your chicken broth and personal preference, you might want to add a little more salt or pepper to really bring those flavors out.
- Make it creamy: For an extra indulgent gravy, try adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. It’ll give it that velvety texture that’s just irresistible!
- Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the gravy to simmer for a few minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully, so don’t skip this step!
- Pair it right: Serve with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! You can play around with different herbs and spices to give your dish a unique twist. For instance, adding a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra layer of texture and taste.
Craving a little heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. You might also consider swapping in some ranch seasoning for a creamy, zesty vibe. And don’t forget about fresh herbs! Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top just before serving adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes stores beautifully. Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to portion it out, and it’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave or heat it gently on the stovetop. If it’s a little thick after thawing, don’t worry—just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Stir it well and heat until everything is warmed through. Enjoy that comforting goodness all over again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes, the right sides can really elevate your meal! I love to pair it with some steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a pop of color and a bit of crunch. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the gravy, too. And if you’re in the mood for something cozy, why not add some warm, buttery biscuits on the side? They’re perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy! As for drinks, a nice glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the meal beautifully. Cheers to comfort food at its finest!
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Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes: 5 Comforting Reasons
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty dish of shredded chicken served with rich gravy over creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a simmer until thickened.
- Stir in shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quick preparation.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- For creamier gravy, add a splash of cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: shredded chicken, gravy, mashed potatoes