There’s something undeniably comforting about tender shredded chicken paired with creamy gravy, especially when it’s served over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken, savory gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes into a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. In under an hour, you can have a filling and flavorful meal that satisfies both taste and comfort. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Overview of the Recipe
This savory shredded chicken dish is cooked in a creamy gravy made from a combination of chicken broth, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Paired with fluffy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that offers both texture and flavor. With a balance of savory herbs like thyme and parsley, as well as the comforting richness of mashed potatoes, this dish is an excellent choice for any night of the week.
History and Origin
The combination of chicken and mashed potatoes is a classic staple in American comfort food. These kinds of meals, centered around simple ingredients like chicken, potatoes, and gravy, have been popular for centuries, especially in rural and farming communities. Creamy gravies and mashed potatoes are often associated with Southern cuisine in the United States, where slow-cooked meats and rich, comforting sides are cherished. This dish can also be traced back to European influences, where gravy-based dishes have been enjoyed for generations.
Ingredients
For the Shredded Chicken and Gravy:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless (Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, while breasts are leaner)
- 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1/2 cup of sour cream (adds richness and tang to the gravy)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, unsalted
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and quartered (russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starch content)
- 1/2 cup of milk (use whole milk for creamier potatoes, or substitute with non-dairy milk)
- 4 tbsp butter, unsalted
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
Instructions
For the Shredded Chicken and Gravy:
- Cook the Chicken:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. - Add the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, and season the mixture with dried thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and tender. - Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside while you prepare the gravy. - Prepare the Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken in the creamy gravy. Allow the chicken and gravy to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes:
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and quartered russet potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. - Mash the Potatoes:
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and, if desired, 1/4 cup of sour cream for extra creaminess. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Plate the Dish:
Scoop a generous portion of the mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top the potatoes with the shredded chicken and creamy gravy. Make sure each serving gets a nice amount of gravy to soak into the mashed potatoes. - Garnish:
For added flavor and presentation, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra dash of black pepper.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Some excellent options include:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes and gravy.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
- Bread: Serve with a side of warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to mop up the gravy.
For drinks, consider serving this meal with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Variations of the Recipe
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: For a variation on the mashed potatoes, consider mixing in shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Herb-Infused Gravy: To add more depth to the gravy, you can stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off version, cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients for the chicken and gravy in a slow cooker, and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once the chicken is done, shred it and stir it back into the gravy.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the chicken and gravy mixture.
Health Benefits
This dish provides a hearty balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair body tissues, and it’s rich in essential vitamins like B6 and niacin.
- Potatoes: Potatoes offer a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium, which is beneficial for heart health and muscle function.
- Sour Cream: While sour cream adds richness, it also provides calcium and vitamin A. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can opt for low-fat or fat-free sour cream.
- Butter and Milk: While these ingredients provide necessary fats and richness to the mashed potatoes, you can substitute them with lower-fat alternatives or plant-based options if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender due to their higher fat content, but either works well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make both the shredded chicken and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Simply reheat the chicken and gravy on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if it thickens too much. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or stovetop with a bit of additional milk to maintain their creamy texture.
3. Can I freeze the shredded chicken and gravy?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a skillet over low heat.
4. What’s the best way to make mashed potatoes extra creamy?
For the creamiest mashed potatoes, make sure to use starchy potatoes like russets, and don’t be afraid to add extra butter, milk, and even sour cream. Whipping them with an electric hand mixer can also help achieve a smoother texture.
Conclusion
This Savory Shredded Chicken with Creamy Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, tender chicken with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers a wholesome, satisfying meal. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of ways to customize the dish to your preferences, it’s sure to become a family favorite.