Looking for a simple comfort meal? Let me introduce you to my Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. This dish is quick to prepare and offers a warm hug after a long day. With just a few ingredients like chicken breasts, gravy mix, and cream of mushroom soup, you can create a dish that's both tasty and filling. Follow along for an easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of gravy mix and cream of mushroom soup creates a rich and creamy sauce that enhances the chicken.
- Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and easy to shred, making it a delight to eat.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, allowing for variety in meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1.5 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
The main ingredients form the base of this dish. Chicken breasts are the star. They cook down to a tender, juicy texture. The gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth create a rich sauce. Together, they bring flavor and moisture to the chicken.
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
These seasonings and aromatics enhance the dish. Onion and garlic add savory depth. Thyme and paprika give warmth and earthiness. The mix of these flavors makes every bite special.
Optional Garnish Ingredients
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnishing with parsley adds color and freshness. It also brightens the dish's look and flavor. Always adjust salt and pepper to your taste. A sprinkle can make a big difference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Make sure to cover the chicken evenly. This will add great flavor as it cooks. Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay them flat for even cooking.
Making the Gravy Mixture
Now, let’s make the gravy. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Mix until it’s smooth with no lumps. Then, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine everything.
Cooking Process
Take the gravy mixture and pour it over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is completely covered by the sauce. Next, secure the lid and set your slow cooker. For low heat, cook for 6-8 hours. If you're short on time, set it to high heat for 3-4 hours.
Check for doneness by looking for tender chicken that easily shreds. Once done, remove the chicken with tongs and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Finally, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it into the gravy.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Chicken & Gravy
To ensure tender chicken, choose boneless, skinless breasts. Look for fresh chicken, as it cooks best. Season well with salt and pepper. Paprika adds a nice flavor. You can adjust the seasoning based on your taste. If you love garlic, add more minced cloves!
Slow Cooker Considerations
When using a slow cooker, you can cook on low or high. Cooking on low takes longer, about 6-8 hours. This gives flavors time to meld. High heat cooks in 3-4 hours, but watch it closely. To avoid overcooking, check the chicken's doneness early. It should shred easily with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
For side dishes, serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. These pair well with the rich gravy. If you have leftovers, try them in a sandwich or salad. You can also mix them into a soup for a new meal. Enjoying leftovers in different ways keeps it exciting!
Pro Tips
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor and tenderness, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’ll add richness to the dish as they cook.
- Customize Your Gravy: Feel free to customize your gravy by adding in other herbs like rosemary or oregano, or even a splash of white wine for an added depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a complete meal. Just chop them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook a double batch and freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick meal later.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can change the soup for different flavors. Try using cream of chicken or vegetable soup. These options can add a new taste to your dish. You can also add vegetables to the mix. Carrots, peas, or potatoes work great. Just chop them up and toss them in the crockpot with the chicken. They will soak up the gravy and bring more color to your meal.
Flavor Enhancements
Spices can change the whole flavor of your dish. Adding garlic powder or onion powder can boost the taste. You can also try using different types of chicken. Bone-in chicken adds extra flavor, while thighs can make the dish richer. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the chicken you choose.
International Twists
Want to add some fun? You can give your chicken a twist! Add soy sauce and ginger for an Asian flair. Or, mix in some salsa or taco seasoning for a Mexican twist. These changes can make your comfort meal exciting. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Comfort food can be fun and full of surprises.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy fresh, follow these steps:
- Let the chicken cool down to room temperature.
- Use airtight containers to store the leftovers.
- Divide the chicken and gravy into smaller portions for easier use.
- Label the containers with the date to track freshness.
Reheating Instructions
For the best taste, reheat your leftovers like this:
- Use the microwave for quick reheating. Place the chicken in a bowl and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- For even heating, try the stovetop. Place chicken in a pan, add a splash of broth, and heat on low until warm.
- If freezing, make sure to store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Shelf Life
How long does it last in the fridge? Your chicken can stay good for 3-4 days. Look for these signs of spoilage:
- A sour smell or off odor.
- Discoloration or strange texture.
- If you see mold, throw it away.
Storing properly helps keep your meal safe and tasty!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just adjust the cooking time. If your chicken is frozen, cook it on high for 4-5 hours. On low, it may take 8-10 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some popular options:
- Fluffy white rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Hearty egg noodles
- Steamed vegetables
- Fresh bread or rolls
These sides soak up the gravy and add great flavor to your meal.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep this meal ahead of time. Follow these steps:
1. Season the chicken and place it in the crockpot.
2. Mix the gravy and pour it over the chicken.
3. Cover and refrigerate the crockpot overnight.
4. In the morning, just plug it in and set the cooking time.
This way, you’ll have a warm meal ready for dinner!
This blog post covered a delicious slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe. I shared the main ingredients, how to prepare them, and step-by-step instructions. Helpful tips ensured tender chicken and tasty gravy. We explored variations and served ideas, plus storage information and FAQs.
In the end, you can make this meal in many ways. So, get creative with flavors and enjoy every bite! Happy cooking!
