There’s nothing quite as satisfying as creamy chicken gravy ladled generously over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes. This classic comfort food is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even as a hearty dish for holidays. The tender, shredded chicken is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that enhances the flavor of buttery mashed potatoes, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the slow-cooker method, making it a convenient recipe for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the recipe for creamy chicken gravy over mashed potatoes, a dish that promises comfort and deliciousness in every bite.
Overview of the Recipe
This creamy chicken gravy over mashed potatoes recipe involves slow-cooked, seasoned chicken breasts in a savory blend of cream of chicken soup and chicken gravy mix. The chicken is cooked until it’s tender enough to be shredded, then mixed back into the rich gravy. Served over buttery mashed potatoes, the result is a soul-warming dish that is both flavorful and easy to make. With minimal ingredients and a crockpot, this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it a go-to for busy cooks who still want to serve a homemade meal.
History and Origin
Gravy-based dishes have been a staple in comfort food cuisines worldwide for centuries. In the United States, creamy chicken gravy often features in Southern cooking traditions, where gravy served over biscuits, potatoes, or chicken is a beloved combination. Chicken and gravy recipes are also found in various forms across European and American cuisines. The use of gravy mixes and canned soups gained popularity in the mid-20th century when convenience cooking became a norm in American households. This recipe pays homage to those traditions while simplifying the process through the use of modern kitchen gadgets like the crockpot.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup – This adds the creamy base and depth of flavor to the gravy.
- 2 cans of water – Helps to thin out the soup for the right gravy consistency.
- 2 packets of chicken gravy mix – Provides that perfect savory flavor to enhance the chicken.
- 2 packs of chicken breasts (about 4-5 pieces) – Chicken breasts are lean, cook well in the crockpot, and shred easily for a tender texture.
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper – Seasonings to flavor the chicken.
- Mashed potatoes (prepared from a bag, with added butter) – A convenient and delicious base for the gravy. You can also make mashed potatoes from scratch if you prefer.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot Mixture
- Start by combining 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, 2 cans of water, and 2 packets of chicken gravy mix in the crockpot. Stir the mixture until everything is well-blended, creating a smooth gravy base.
- Season the Chicken
- Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These seasonings enhance the flavor of the chicken without overpowering the dish.
- Add the Chicken to the Crockpot
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly into the crockpot, submerging them in the gravy mixture. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated with the gravy.
- Cook the Chicken
- Set the crockpot to cook on low for 7-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, soaking up all the flavors of the creamy gravy. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours, but for the best results, low and slow is ideal.
- Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Shredding the chicken allows it to mix evenly with the gravy for a consistent texture.
- Return the Chicken to the Crockpot
- After shredding the chicken, return it to the crockpot. Stir it well so the shredded chicken is thoroughly mixed with the creamy gravy. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to ensure that the chicken absorbs even more of the gravy’s flavor.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- While the chicken and gravy finish cooking, prepare your mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. Be sure to add butter to the mashed potatoes for extra richness. If you prefer, you can also make mashed potatoes from scratch by boiling and mashing fresh potatoes with butter, milk, and seasoning.
- Serve
- To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on a plate and top it with the creamy chicken and gravy mixture. The combination of the tender, shredded chicken and the rich, savory gravy over the smooth mashed potatoes is simply irresistible.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and gravy dish pairs beautifully with various side dishes to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed vegetables such as green beans, peas, or carrots, to add a pop of color and nutrition.
- Dinner rolls or biscuits, which can be used to soak up the extra gravy.
- A simple salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken and gravy.
You can also serve this dish family-style, allowing everyone to customize their portions with as much mashed potato and gravy as they like.
Variations of the Recipe
This recipe can be customized in a variety of ways to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Herbed Chicken Gravy
- Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the gravy mixture for an herby twist. These herbs complement the creamy chicken and add a layer of depth to the dish.
- Cheesy Chicken Gravy
- Stir in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese into the gravy towards the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Vegetable-Loaded Version
- Add diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas into the crockpot along with the chicken. This makes the dish heartier and adds nutritional value.
- Spicy Chicken Gravy
- For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mix. This gives the dish a little heat while still maintaining its creamy texture.
- Low-Carb Version
- If you’re following a low-carb diet, replace the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. The creamy chicken and gravy are just as delicious over this lighter, low-carb option.
Health Benefits Notes
This dish is a comforting meal, but it can also offer several health benefits, especially when made with the following considerations:
- Lean Protein: Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair and provides long-lasting energy.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Including vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans boosts the fiber and vitamin content of the meal.
- Moderation in Ingredients: By controlling the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes or opting for a lighter version of cream of chicken soup, you can reduce the overall fat and calorie content of the dish.
For a lighter version, consider using low-sodium gravy mixes and opting for reduced-fat cream of chicken soup to cut back on sodium and fat.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so they make a great alternative.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy a day ahead. Once cooked, store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. The flavors often deepen after sitting for a day.
- What if I don’t have a crockpot?
- If you don’t have a crockpot, you can cook the chicken and gravy on the stovetop. Use a large pot and simmer the chicken in the gravy mixture over low heat for 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the chicken and gravy in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken gravy over mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. With tender, shredded chicken, a rich and savory gravy, and buttery mashed potatoes, it’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly night or bring comfort during a busy week. The recipe’s simplicity makes it accessible for any home cook, and its versatility allows you to adapt it to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a cozy meal for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy every time.