There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to comfort the soul, especially when it’s a combination of tender chicken, smooth mashed potatoes, and rich, flavorful gravy. This article will take you through a mouthwatering recipe for Chicken and Gravy Stovetop, using a blend of ingredients that will deliver the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy it without a hassle.
The Perfect Comfort Food: Chicken, Gravy, and Mashed Potatoes
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the timeless appeal of Chicken Mash Potatoes and Gravy. It’s a classic comfort food that combines a variety of textures and flavors in a single, satisfying meal. Whether it’s shredded chicken over mashed potatoes or turkey gravy over mashed potatoes, this dish always manages to hit the spot. The shredded chicken gravy mashed potatoes combo is especially delightful because the shredded chicken absorbs the savory gravy, blending perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes beneath. And let’s not forget the chicken gravy mashed potatoes, which elevate the flavor profile with their velvety smooth texture.
You’ll often see variations of this dish, such as chicken and gravy instant pot or air fryer shredded chicken, but today we’ll focus on the traditional chicken and gravy stovetop method. This stovetop method is straightforward and allows you to control the texture of both the chicken and the gravy, ensuring a rich and satisfying result.
Ingredients for Chicken and Gravy Stovetop
To make the chicken and gravy stovetop recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer darker meat)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of flour (for thickening the gravy)
- 2 cups of chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of heavy cream (for a creamy gravy)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the mashed potatoes:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- ½ cup of milk (or more if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Chicken and Gravy Stovetop
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by making the mashed potatoes, as this will take some time to cook. Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks, so they cook at the same rate. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the potato chunks.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can add more milk until you reach your desired texture.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the potatoes are boiling, you can start cooking the chicken. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through. This should take about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside to rest. You’ll be shredding the chicken later, so it’s best to allow it to cool for a few minutes before pulling it apart.
3. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet that you used to cook the chicken, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This adds an extra depth of flavor to your gravy.
Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a flour-based paste) that will thicken your gravy. Be sure not to let the flour brown, as this will affect the flavor of the gravy.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the broth is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For a richer gravy, stir in the heavy cream, which will give the gravy a smooth, velvety texture. Let the gravy simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Shred the Chicken
While the gravy is simmering, take your cooked chicken breasts (or thighs) and shred them using two forks. The chicken should be tender enough to easily pull apart. Once shredded, add the chicken back into the skillet with the gravy. Stir to coat the chicken with the rich gravy and allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together and ensure the chicken absorbs all the delicious gravy.
5. Assemble the Dish
To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate. Spoon the shredded chicken and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations of the Recipe
While this recipe is already a satisfying meal on its own, you can get creative with some variations to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
Shredded Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for a simpler version, you can skip the gravy and serve the shredded chicken over mashed potatoes. This version highlights the tenderness of the chicken and the creamy mashed potatoes, offering a lighter but still delicious meal.
Turkey Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
For a seasonal twist, you can substitute chicken gravy with turkey gravy over mashed potatoes. This is especially popular around the holidays, but it’s a great alternative any time of the year. Turkey gravy has a rich, savory flavor that complements the mashed potatoes and chicken beautifully.
Chicken and Gravy Instant Pot
If you’re short on time, consider making this recipe in an Instant Pot. Simply place the chicken, broth, onion, garlic, and seasonings in the pot, cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, then shred the chicken and make the gravy. The Instant Pot chicken and gravy version will save you time without sacrificing flavor.
Air Fryer Shredded Chicken
For a healthier version, you can use the air fryer shredded chicken. Air frying the chicken gives it a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it and add it to your stovetop gravy for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
There are many reasons why this chicken and gravy stovetop recipe is a winner. First, the stovetop method ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender while the gravy becomes thick and flavorful. It’s also easy to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your preferences. The creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting base to the dish, making every bite a delightful experience.
This recipe also allows for flexibility. You can substitute different types of gravy, such as chicken gravy mashed potatoes, or switch the protein by using shredded chicken over mashed potatoes or turkey gravy over mashed potatoes. It’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences and occasions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken and Gravy Stovetop is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich, savory gravy. Whether you enjoy shredded chicken gravy mashed potatoes or prefer a quick chicken and gravy instant pot version, this dish can be customized to meet your preferences. It’s a versatile, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish with your loved ones!
