This Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes is a cherished family recipe that has stood the test of time. Passed down through generations, it’s a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Tender shredded chicken bathed in a rich, savory gravy, poured over creamy mashed potatoes—it’s the definition of comfort food at its finest.
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Generations of Flavor – A time-tested recipe enjoyed for decades.
✔ Budget-Friendly & Simple – Uses basic pantry ingredients, making it an affordable, no-fuss meal.
✔ Perfectly Hearty & Comforting – A warm, filling dish that’s great for chilly nights or when you need a taste of home.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Works with homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes, and the gravy can be thickened or thinned to your liking.
What You’ll Need
For the Shredded Chicken Gravy:
2-3 cups cooked shredded chicken (from a whole chicken, rotisserie, or boiled chicken breasts/thighs)
2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (for a richer gravy)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional, for deeper flavor)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4-5 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup butter
1/2-3/4 cup warm milk (adjust for creaminess)
Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Cook & Shred the Chicken
If using raw chicken, boil it in salted water until fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes for boneless, 25-30 minutes for bone-in).
Let it cool slightly, then shred it with two forks or your hands.
If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown (this helps eliminate the raw flour taste).
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Add milk or heavy cream, stirring until smooth and thickened.
Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
Stir in the shredded chicken, allowing it to soak up the gravy for 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
Drain and return to the pot.
Mash the potatoes while adding butter and warm milk, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes onto a plate.
Ladle the shredded chicken gravy over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
Serve with a side of buttered biscuits, cornbread, or green beans for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
✔ Want Extra Creamy Potatoes? Use heavy cream instead of milk and mash with a potato ricer for the smoothest texture.
✔ Need More Gravy? Increase broth to 3 cups and adjust flour/milk as needed.
✔ Short on Time? Use store-bought mashed potatoes and a rotisserie chicken to cut prep time in half!
✔ Thicker Gravy? Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water).
Serving Suggestions
Classic Side Dishes: Buttered corn, steamed green beans, biscuits, or dinner rolls.
For a Southern Twist: Serve with collard greens or fried okra.
Make It a Full Meal: Add roasted carrots, peas, or sautéed mushrooms to the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: The chicken gravy freezes well for up to 3 months (store in a freezer-safe bag or container).
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
Why This Recipe Is So Special
This dish isn’t just food—it’s memories on a plate. The nostalgia of watching grandma stir the pot, the comforting aroma filling the kitchen, and the first warm bite bringing back childhood memories make this a recipe that connects generations.
Try it today and start your own family tradition! ❤️