Crockpot Chicken & Gravy: Easy Comfort Food Recipe!

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Life is so busy, isn’t it? Trying to juggle work commitments, scheduling for the family, and everything in between, it may seem nearly impossible to find time to prepare a yummy meal – but that’s where this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy bails you out! Picture coming home to a warm prepared dish. With that and just very few other ingredients and the ‘magic’ of slow cooking, you’ve got a pretty easy yet table-satisfying meal for everyone. It’s the best way to unite loved ones over comfort food in a warm house; it should make meal times be a joy, not a chore.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It simplifies your cooking routine, allowing you to set it and forget it! Cooked slowly, the chicken becomes tender, bathing in flavorful gravy that calls for second helpings. Plus, fewer dishes mean more time to unwind with your family. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and your taste buds will thank you for it!

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Let’s dive into the heart of this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can come together to create such a comforting meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the stars of the show! Tender and juicy, they stay moist during cooking.
• Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: This creamy goodness acts as a base for the gravy, adding richness without overwhelming the dish.
• Dry Chicken Gravy Mix: A couple of envelopes of this mix boost flavor effortlessly. It’s like a little magic in a packet!
• Water or Chicken Broth: This optional ingredient helps to thin out the sauce and add depth. Use broth for extra flavor.
• Hot Steamed Rice: Serving your chicken and gravy over rice creates a fulfilling meal that soaks up all that yummy sauce.

For added flavor, consider throwing in some herbs like thyme or rosemary. They’ll elevate your dish to new heights. And if you want to switch things up, you can use other cuts of chicken, like thighs—just be sure to adjust cooking times. Want to know the exact measurements? Look towards the bottom of this article; they’re there for easy printing!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s embark on the delightful journey of making this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

First things first, let’s handle our chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker.

Be sure not to crowd the chicken too much; they need space to soak up that delicious gravy. A light seasoning of salt and pepper at this stage is optional but adds a nice gentleness to the flavor profile.

When choosing your chicken, look for breasts that are plump and fresh, ensuring they’re the right cut for long, slow cooking. This way, they’ll stay moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Making the Sauce

Next up, it’s sauce time! In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup with the two packets of dry chicken gravy mix.

This is where the magic starts to happen! You can add ½ cup of water or chicken broth to thin it out. Opt for broth if you want an extra flavor boost. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Then, pour this luscious mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. It’s like showering your chicken with a warm, creamy blanket!

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Now, we let the slow cooker work its charm. Cover the cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW heat for about 4 to 6 hours.

This gradual cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re pinched for time, you can try cooking it on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours, but I always prefer low and slow for the best flavor.

Just avoid the temptation to lift the lid too often, as it can interrupt the cooking process!

Step 4: Shredding and Serving

After the cooking time, it’s time for the grand reveal! Using two forks, gently break the chicken into bite-sized pieces while it’s still in the slow cooker.

This not only distributes the sauce nicely but also makes every bite packed with flavor.

Ladle the shredded chicken and gravy over a warm bed of steamed rice and watch the smiles spread around the table. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of comfort food filling your home!

Tips for Success

• For even juicier chicken, consider marinating it in your favorite seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
• Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more broth or water if needed.
• Keep an eye on the cooking time; chicken should be tender and pull apart easily.
• Experiment with herbs and spices for a flavor twist.
• Pair with veggies like green beans or carrots for a complete meal!

Equipment Needed for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

• Slow Cooker: Your main tool for this recipe; any size works, but a 4-6 quart is ideal.
• Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the soup and gravy mix; a measuring cup will do in a pinch.
• Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the chicken; use tongs if you prefer.
• Measuring Cups: Handy for defining the liquid ingredients.

Variations for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Mushroom Medley: Toss in a can of sliced mushrooms with the sauce for an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Vegetable Loaded: Throw in some diced carrots and peas for added nutrition and color. They’ll cook down and meld into the gravy.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup for a safe, delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

• Steamed Vegetables: Green beans or broccoli make great sides, adding color and nutrition.
• Crispy Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the gravy.
• Bread Rolls: Serve warm dinner rolls or biscuits to soak up every last drop of that delicious gravy.
• Drink Pairing: A chilled iced tea or lemon-lime soda complements this comforting dish nicely.

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’ve got frozen chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. Just make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

How can I thicken the gravy?
If the gravy turns out too thin for your liking, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in about 30 minutes before serving. This will help achieve that velvety texture.

What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy?
This dish is delightful over rice, but you can also serve it with mashed potatoes or even noodles. Add some steamed veggies on the side for a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup. They’re readily available at most grocery stores.

How long does the leftovers last?
If properly stored in an airtight container, your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving again!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy isn’t just about meal prep; it’s about creating moments together. The slow simmer transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that your family will adore. There’s something magical about the way the aroma fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe fits effortlessly into our busy lives, making it ideal for any hectic weeknight. Remember, it’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug for the soul, reminding us all that love is best served warm and delicious!

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