Creamy Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes: Comfort Food at Its Finest 🍗🥔✨
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Introduction:
Nothing says comfort quite like Creamy Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, creamy gravy served atop fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for family dinners or a simple weeknight feast.
Imagine coming home to the delicious aroma of chicken simmering in savory gravy, ready to be ladled over buttery mashed potatoes. This recipe is straightforward, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Gravy:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining two classic favorites: creamy gravy and buttery mashed potatoes.
- Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes of your time, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels like it took all day.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this rich, savory dish, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
- Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
2. Cook the Chicken
- While the potatoes are cooking, season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. Make the Creamy Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow it to simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the gravy simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Slice the Chicken
- After the chicken has rested for a few minutes, slice it into strips or cubes.
5. Assemble the Dish
- To serve, scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with sliced chicken and ladle the creamy gravy over everything. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions:
- Vegetable Side: Pair with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a complete meal.
- Add Some Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the mashed potatoes for an aromatic twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Gravy:
- Use Quality Chicken Broth: For the best flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Homemade broth can elevate this dish even more!
- Don’t Rush the Gravy: Allow the gravy to simmer for a few extra minutes to develop richer flavors. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest before slicing ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
FAQs:
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! You can use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just skip the cooking step and heat it through in the gravy.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also thicken the gravy with additional cornstarch mixed with water.
What other sides go well with this dish?
Besides mashed potatoes, you can serve it over rice, pasta, or even biscuits for a hearty meal.
Customization Ideas:
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food.
- Herbed Potatoes: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or parsley into your mashed potatoes for added flavor.
Why You Need to Try Creamy Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:
This Creamy Chicken Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory chicken and creamy gravy on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.