Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in the warm embrace of comfort food, you’re in the right place! This Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes) recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture this: tender shredded chicken smothered in velvety gravy, all served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s truly the kind of food that feels like a big hug after a long day. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a master chef to create something so delicious and satisfying. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on something that will surely become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a wholesome dinner ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this comforting dish.
• Flexible Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or swap out flavors to make it your own.
• Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep; leftovers taste even better!
• Deliciously Satisfying: The rich gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes creates a flavor explosion with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create this delicious meal. You likely have many of these items in your pantry already!

• 2 large chicken breasts split lengthwise into thinner breasts; or 4 medium/small chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• kosher salt & black pepper
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp chicken base (we recommend Better Than Bouillon brand)
• 4 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (Optional!! )
• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
• Add veggies: Toss in some peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the starch: Serve the gravy over rice or noodles for a delightful twist.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version.

How to Make Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by lightly seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. This is key because it builds flavor right from the beginning!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the seasoned chicken for about 5 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking it properly ensures your chicken stays juicy and tender.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and lower the heat. Add butter and chicken base, stirring until melted. Then sprinkle in your flour mixture—this forms a roux that thickens our gravy. Stir for about 30 seconds to get rid of any raw flour taste.

Step 4: Whisk in Liquids

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This step enhances flavor! Add water next and whisk until smooth. Let it simmer until thickened.

Step 5: Add Cream (Optional)

If you want an extra touch of creaminess, stir in some heavy cream at this stage. It adds richness that perfectly complements our dish!

Step 6: Shred and Simmer

Shred your cooked chicken if desired, then return it to the pan along with any juices collected while resting. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Taste Test

Before serving, take a moment to taste your gravy. Adjust seasoning as needed—it’s all about making sure every bite is perfect!

Step 8: Serve

Finally, serve your delightful chicken and gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes or whatever base you’ve chosen. Enjoy each comforting bite!

PS: If you end up loving this recipe, be sure to give my Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing Casserole a try too! XO – Susie

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Chicken and Gravy to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. They bring brightness and depth that dried or older ingredients can’t match.

• Monitor the heat: Keeping your heat on medium-low while making the roux is crucial. This prevents burning and allows for a smooth, creamy gravy that clings perfectly to your chicken.

• Add a splash of lemon juice: If you’re looking for a zing, adding just a teaspoon of lemon juice to the gravy before serving can brighten up the flavors, giving it an extra refreshing kick.

• Experiment with herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley can add an aromatic touch. Just sprinkle them in during the simmering stage for added depth and flavor.

• Let it rest: After cooking, letting your chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding allows the juices to redistribute. This makes every bite juicy and tender!

How to Serve Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)

Presentation matters, especially when it comes to comfort food! Here are some fun ideas to make your Chicken and Gravy truly shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that balances the richness of the gravy.
• Sliced green onions: These bright little bites provide a nice crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy — a must-have companion!

• Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture adds contrast to the creamy chicken and gravy, plus they’re quick to prepare!

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their caramelized edges and earthy flavor, they pair wonderfully with this comforting dish while adding some nutritional value.

• Simple Mixed Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of chicken and gravy, making each bite feel balanced.

Enjoy creating this cozy meal for you and your loved ones! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Gravy recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store any leftovers or make it ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you’re packing it for lunch, keep the mashed potatoes separate from the chicken and gravy to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the chicken and gravy cool fully and then portion them into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date!
• For best results, freeze the chicken and gravy without mashed potatoes, as they don’t reheat as well after freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through; add a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the gravy.
• For microwave reheating, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes):

Can I make Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes) without heavy cream?

Absolutely! The heavy cream is optional. You can omit it for a lighter version of this dish or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream if you prefer.

How do I thicken my Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)?

If your gravy is too thin, you can create a slurry with equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness.

Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken breasts for convenience, you can also use thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)?

This delicious comfort food can be ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes) recipe as much as I do! It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and happiness to any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or simply craving something hearty, this dish is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience—I love hearing from fellow food lovers!