Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, flavorful gravy, allowing you to immerse yourself in comfort food heaven without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a home-cooked meal that practically prepares itself.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (on high)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Protein: 40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a smart choice for anyone seeking a reliable and satisfying meal. The slow cooking process infuses immense flavor into the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender. The rich gravy is versatile and pairs incredibly well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or even vegetables. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, requires minimal ingredients, and allows for hands-off cooking. With just a few minutes of prep, you can fill your home with the inviting aroma of home-cooked goodness.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
-
Step 1: Preparation
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking.
-
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
-
Step 3: Cooking
Season the mix with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the chicken absorbs all the flavors and achieves perfect tenderness.
-
Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it through the thick gravy. Serve hot over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a splash of color if desired.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
This dish is best served warm and can be enjoyed with various sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes for a classic pairing, or opt for fluffy rice if you prefer. Add a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side to balance the richness of the gravy. For special occasions, this dish also shines on a holiday table served alongside dinner rolls.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain good for 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Place the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality broth and cream of chicken soup will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or herbs like thyme or garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Thickening the Gravy: If the gravy is thinner than you’d like, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Garlic Chicken: Add minced garlic to the cream of chicken soup mixture for a garlicky punch.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in some fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the gravy for extra depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Addition: Toss in some chopped carrots and celery with the chicken for added nutrition and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will need to be extended. -
How can I make this recipe low-carb?
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-carb version and serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. -
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Certainly! Chicken thighs work great for this recipe and often yield juicier results. -
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy thickens too much, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free ranch seasoning and cream of chicken soup.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a versatile and comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and simple cooking process, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. So grab your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your home!
Print
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soup and seasoning)
Description
A delightful dish combining tender chicken with a creamy, flavorful gravy, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Season the mix with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it through the thick gravy. Serve hot over rice or mashed potatoes, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, and adjust seasonings to taste. Cooking times may vary by slow cooker model.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
