There’s just something so comforting about a good old plate of shredded chicken with gravy, isn’t there? The creamy richness, the tender chicken, and that ultimate guilty pleasure of sinking your fork into a mound of buttery mashed potatoes. Oh, the joy! I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly fall evening, and I was craving something warm and cozy. I whipped up this dish, and it felt like a big hug in a bowl! Since that night, it has become my go-to recipe for family gatherings and quick weeknight dinners alike. If you’re after a meal that’s not just food but an experience, keep reading!
This dish is so nourishing and satisfying. It’s really a steal when you think about it: minimal prep and maximum flavor. I promise you, there’s nothing like coming home to a kitchen filled with the savory aroma of garlic and herbs simmering away. Now, let’s dive into the details of this heart-warming recipe.
What’s in Comforting Shredded Chicken with Gravy?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are perfect for shredding, as they cook up tender and juicy. I usually go for organic chicken if I can, but whatever you have on hand will do the trick!
Chicken Broth: The secret ingredient that keeps the chicken moist and adds depth to the dish. I like to use low-sodium broth to control the salt levels.
Onion: A finely chopped medium onion gives a mellow sweetness and aromatic flavor.
Garlic: You can’t go wrong with garlic! Three cloves of minced garlic add that punch of flavor that everyone will love.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes your gravy so luscious and creamy. Just be careful with portions if you’re watching calories!
All-Purpose Flour: A bit of flour helps thicken up the gravy to that perfect consistency.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a bit of umami and richness that elevates your dish.
Dried Thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the chicken beautifully. Fresh thyme is fantastic too if you have it!
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning is key here; I often add a little more than I think I need because who doesn’t love flavor?
Olive Oil or Butter: A robust choice for sautéing your onions – I usually reach for olive oil for a healthier option, but butter is always a delicious treat!
Fresh Parsley: It’s all about presentation and adding that fresh touch.
Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate sidekick for this dish—creamy, buttery, and begging to be smothered in that dreamy gravy!
Is Comforting Shredded Chicken with Gravy Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about how this dish stacks up health-wise.
Chicken: Loaded with protein to keep you feeling full and fueled, chicken is a lean meat choice that helps build muscle and promotes overall health.
Heavy Cream: While it makes the gravy indulgent, it does have a higher calorie count, so if you want to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Onions and Garlic: Both are great for heart health and offer immune-boosting properties.
Thyme: This herb isn’t just for flavor; it’s packed with antioxidants, which are essential for fighting inflammation.
Mashed Potatoes: A fantastic source of carbohydrates for energy, though you might want to watch your portions if you’re controlling carbs.
Overall, while this dish is definitely comfort food, you can make small tweaks if you’re watching your diet without sacrificing too much flavor.
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for cooking
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Mashed potatoes (for serving)
*Serves: 4-6*
How to Make Comforting Shredded Chicken with Gravy?
1. **Prepare the Base:** In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it’s nice and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add in that minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Season those chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place them in the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked and tender.
3. **Shred the Chicken:** Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and let it cool for a moment. Use a couple of forks to shred it into pieces, then set it aside.
4. **Make the Gravy:** In the same skillet, whisk together the flour and heavy cream, cooking on medium heat until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and if the gravy seems too thick, add in more chicken broth until you get your desired consistency.
5. **Combine and Heat:** Add the shredded chicken back into the gravy, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. **Serve:** Plop that comforting shredded chicken and gravy over a generous serving of mashed potatoes, and don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Tips for Perfect Comforting Shredded Chicken with Gravy
– **Variations:** Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables to the gravy—carrots or peas work well.
– **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the chicken and gravy in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day!
– **Serving Suggestions:** This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. It’s also fantastic over rice or pasta if you want to switch things up a bit.
Now, there you have it! A dish that’s ready to warm your belly and lift your spirits. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s bound to become one of your cozy favorites, just like it has for me! Please let me know how it turns out—I love hearing from fellow foodies! Happy cooking!
