If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes) recipe is my go-to when I want something simple yet oh-so-satisfying. The tender shredded chicken swimming in rich gravy, all served over creamy mashed potatoes, is like a hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish never fails to impress and makes everyone feel at home.

I love how this dish brings people together around the dinner table. With its uncomplicated ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for anyone—whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken and gravy ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of chicken, gravy, and mashed potatoes is a classic that never disappoints.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—the choice is yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes) uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

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 flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Use turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Add veggies: Stir in some peas or carrots into the gravy for added nutrition and color.
Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Change up the base: Instead of mashed potatoes, serve the chicken and gravy over rice or egg noodles.

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 black pepper. This step adds flavor right from the start! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165℉. This ensures that your chicken is tender and juicy.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same pan, add butter along with your chicken base. Stir until melted, then sprinkle in your flour mixture containing onion powder and garlic powder. Cooking this roux for just about 30 seconds helps develop those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Now comes the fun part! Slowly pour in your chicken stock while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; these add great flavor to your gravy. Whisk well to avoid lumps as you add water. Let it simmer until thickened to your liking—this usually takes just a few minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Gravy

If you like shredded chicken, now’s the time! Shred your cooked chicken and return it to the gravy along with any juices collected on the plate. Allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes so that those delicious flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, taste your gravy one last time—feel free to adjust seasoning if needed! Serve your glorious Chicken and Gravy over warm Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes for an irresistible meal that’s sure to bring smiles all around.

Happy cooking! If you try this recipe out—and I really hope you do—I’d love to hear what you think! And don’t forget to check out my Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing Casserole next time you’re craving comfort food!

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

Making Chicken and Gravy can be a delightful experience, especially when you know a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

Choose the right chicken: Using chicken breasts ensures lean meat that’s easy to shred. If you prefer more flavor, consider using thighs, but just keep an eye on cooking times as they may differ.
Make a flavorful roux: Cooking your flour mixture long enough will enhance the flavor of the gravy. This step creates a rich base that adds depth to your dish.
Use quality chicken stock: Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken stock for a fresher taste. This will allow you to control the saltiness of your gravy while enhancing its overall flavor.
Adjust thickness wisely: If your gravy is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken up naturally.
Taste before serving: Always taste your gravy at the end to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly. A little tweak can make all the difference in achieving that comforting flavor profile.

How to Serve Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)

Serving Chicken and Gravy over mashed potatoes is all about creating a comforting and visually appealing plate. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting!

Garnishes

Chopped parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
Sliced green onions: Green onions bring a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch, making them an excellent garnish for both look and taste.
Freshly cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds texture to your beautiful bowl.

Side Dishes

Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a lovely contrast in texture and color while being light and refreshing.
Garlic bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra gravy left on your plate—who could resist that?
Roasted Brussels sprouts: With their caramelized edges and earthy flavor, roasted Brussels sprouts offer depth to the meal.
Corn on the cob: Sweet corn complements the savory notes of the gravy beautifully, making it a classic side that everyone loves.

By following these simple tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable Chicken and Gravy dinner over mashed potatoes that warms hearts and satisfies appetites! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken and Gravy recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Portion the chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date for easy identification.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if necessary to loosen the gravy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)?

Absolutely! You can use thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165℉.

What should I serve with Chicken and Gravy (over mashed potatoes)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like peas, or you can enjoy it with garlic bread for a comforting meal.

Can I make this Chicken and Gravy recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create the roux, ensuring that your dish remains gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken and Gravy over mashed potatoes as much as I do! It’s such a heartwarming dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or feedback!