Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you're looking for a cozy, filling meal, this shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes hits all the right notes. The creamy gravy made from a blend of chicken broth, cream of chicken, and chicken gravy packets perfectly complements the tender, seasoned chicken. Served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is both hearty and flavorful. It’s easy to make, especially with the help of a crockpot, and can easily feed a crowd. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 cans cream of chicken
- 2 cans water
- 2 packets chicken gravy
- 2 packs chicken breast
- Mashed potatoes (I use the ones that come in a bag and just add some butter)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Add the cream of chicken, water, and chicken gravy packets into the crockpot.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the crockpot with the other ingredients.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and shred easily.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.
- Serve the shredded chicken and gravy mixture over mashed potatoes.
- For an extra touch, add rolls to go with the meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 7-8 hours (low heat in the crockpot)
- Total time: 7-8 hours 5 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like carrots or peas to the crockpot for more flavor and texture. You can add frozen veggies in the last hour of cooking to avoid them becoming too mushy.
- Use Different Potatoes: If you prefer homemade mashed potatoes, swap out the pre-packaged ones for freshly mashed potatoes for an added touch of freshness.
- Spicy Option: For a kick, add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning.
- Gravy Substitutes: You can use homemade chicken gravy instead of the packets for a more natural flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the chicken and gravy in a pot over medium heat until warm, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the gravy thickens too much after cooling, add a little water to thin it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe, and they’ll add even more flavor due to their higher fat content.
Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and gravy mixture in a large pot over the stove. Simmer on low for about 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender, then shred and return to the pot.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken gravy for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Can I add more seasoning to the gravy?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor in the gravy.
How do I keep the mashed potatoes creamy?
To keep your mashed potatoes creamy, be sure to add plenty of butter, milk, or cream when making them. You can also use sour cream for added creaminess.
What other side dishes pair well with this meal?
Rolls, steamed veggies, or a simple side salad go great with this dish. You can also serve it with green beans or corn for a complete meal.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes are a quick and easy alternative, and they pair perfectly with the chicken and gravy.
What if the gravy is too thick?
If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add a bit more water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the gravy mixture for a spicy kick.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the dish dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and milk for the mashed potatoes and make sure to check the labels on the cream of chicken and chicken gravy packets to ensure they are dairy-free.
Conclusion
This shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes is a simple, yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something easy and delicious. The crockpot does all the hard work, leaving you with a hearty dish that the whole family will love. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes
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This Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make dinner. Made with tender chicken and creamy gravy, it’s served over a bed of mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The slow-cooked chicken paired with savory gravy makes this dish a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Author: Janet
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low heat in the crockpot)
- Total Time: 7-8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 cans water
- 2 packets chicken gravy
- 2 packs chicken breasts
- Mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the cream of chicken, water, and chicken gravy packets.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the crockpot with the other ingredients.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and shred easily.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring to mix with the gravy.
- Serve the shredded chicken and gravy mixture over mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Optional: Add frozen vegetables like carrots or peas in the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Use homemade chicken gravy instead of packets for a more natural flavor.