This easy shredded chicken with savory gravy is all about warmth and comfort. With tender chicken simmered in a rich, tasty gravy, it’s perfect for cozy dinners!
I love serving it over rice or mashed potatoes. Just thinking about it makes me want to grab a spoon and dig in—who can resist that comfort? 😊
You’ll appreciate how quick it is to make! Just cook the chicken, shred it, and stir in the gravy. Dinner is done before you know it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are a bit juicier and more flavorful, while breasts cook quicker. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works great here too!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a pinch, you can use shallots or even green onions. Onion powder can be a substitute, but fresh is definitely best!
Chicken Broth: This is the base of your gravy. If you have homemade stock, use it! For a healthier option, low-sodium broth is a good choice. You can also use vegetable broth if you’re aiming to make this dish vegetarian.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you can swap it for half-and-half or even whole milk if you’d like to lighten it up. Coconut milk can be a great dairy-free alternative.
Herbs & Spices: Dried thyme is perfect here, but feel free to experiment with rosemary or Italian seasoning! Fresh herbs will add vibrancy and might just elevate the dish. You could also use basil for a different flavor kick!
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken?
Shredding chicken is simple, but here’s how to get it just right. After the chicken has simmered and is tender, try these steps:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it stay juicy.
- Using two forks, hold one piece in place and pull apart the other fork to shred. It’s best to shred while the chicken is still warm.
- If you want, you can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment—just a few seconds on low will shred it quickly!
Shredding can feel like a chore, but I find it quite therapeutic. Plus, the shredded chicken soaks up more of that delicious gravy!
Easy Comforting Shredded Chicken with Savory Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
For the Gravy:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a lovely flavor foundation for your dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken breasts or thighs to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden brown color. This adds extra flavor to the chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s super easy—just pull it apart!
5. Make the Gravy:
In a small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of the hot broth from the skillet to create a smooth slurry. This will help thicken your gravy. Stir this mixture back into the broth in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens.
6. Add the Cream and Chicken:
Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to give your gravy that wonderful creamy texture. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine everything. Heat it through for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season and Serve:
Taste your gravy and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Once it’s just right, garnish with fresh parsley and serve it warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy this warm hug in a bowl!
Feel free to get creative with sides or toppings, and enjoy this cozy, comforting shredded chicken with savory gravy that’s simple yet oh-so-satisfying!
FAQ for Easy Comforting Shredded Chicken with Savory Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first. Thawing is best done in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the gravy in advance. Let everything cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce if it thickens too much.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally for even heating!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk works well, but be aware that it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish!
