Introduction to Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Life can get pretty crazy, especially for a working mom such as myself. Let’s be honest, some days it’s more like Olympic cooking! That is where my favorite five-ingredient meal comes in—Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. It’s dinner from the slow cooker that greets you like a good, warm blanket after a long day. It allows minimal prep but much other great stuff you’ve got going on. Just throw in a few ingredients with the slow cooker, and you get this heartwarming dinner that surprises your loved ones and smells divine in the house. It’s going to become your go-to meal; mark my words.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is a lifesaver for those busy evenings. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for working moms and professionals alike. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle life’s other demands. The taste is simply divine, with tender chicken immersed in creamy gravy. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this gem in your recipe collection!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Gathering the right ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the first step to creating this comforting meal. Each component plays a crucial role in making this dish cozy and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! They soak up all that rich flavor and stay juicy while cooking.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: This creamy base gives the dish its velvety texture. It’s a perfect shortcut for busy cooks. Make sure to choose unsalted to keep control over the sodium.
- Dry Chicken Gravy Mix: This adds the signature savory flavor. You can find various brands, and some even offer gluten-free options!
- Water or Chicken Broth: Depending on how flavorful you want your sauce, you can add either. Chicken broth elevates the taste even more.
- Hot Steamed Rice: The perfect companion! It soaks up the gravy and makes each bite pure comfort. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Feel free to get creative! You could toss in some chopped carrots or peas for added nutrition and color. Satisfied shoppers can find all these ingredients at their local grocery store. Exact measurements are sprinkled throughout the recipe toward the end of this post, where you’ll also find a handy printable version!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Creating this delightful Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is simpler than pie! Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring each moment in the kitchen is as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing those boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. I usually rinse them off and pat them dry to ensure they’re ready for the flavor party ahead.
Season them lightly with salt and pepper if you wish. This little touch can make all the difference in building flavor. Remember, the chicken will soak up the rich gravy later, so don’t overdo it!
Step 2: Make the Gravy Mixture
Next up is the gravy! In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, and your choice of water or chicken broth. This mixture is total magic; it transforms simple chicken into a comforting delight.
Keep whisking until smooth. No lumps! Trust me, you’ve got a creamy masterpiece waiting to happen.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Now, it’s time to pour your velvety gravy mix over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure to cover the chicken completely. Every inch should be swimming in that sauce!
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. This is where the magic happens. The flavors will meld beautifully as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Set your slow cooker to LOW heat and let it work its magic for about 4 to 6 hours. I recommend setting it in the morning if you’ll be away, or in the early afternoon if you’re home.
While cooking, you can tackle other tasks. Put your feet up, share laughs with your family, or indulge in a good book while the aroma fills your home.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fork-tender, it’s shredding time! I like to use two forks for this, breaking the chicken right in the slow cooker.
This method allows the shredded chicken to soak up even more gravy. Every bite becomes a flavor explosion!
Step 6: Serve it Up
Finally, it’s time to serve this scrumptious Crockpot Chicken & Gravy over hot steamed rice. And oh, the joy it brings!
Use a ladle to drizzle that rich gravy over the chicken and rice. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of veggies for a pop of color. Your family will adore this dinner!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the seasoning! A touch of salt and pepper elevates the flavors.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Want to bulk it up? Add frozen peas or carrots for a colorful twist.
- Plan ahead! This dish refrigerates well, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Try serving with crusty bread to soak up that delicious gravy!
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker: The hero of this dish. It does all the heavy lifting. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works too.
- Bowl: For mixing the gravy. Any mixing bowl will do!
- Two Forks: Essential for shredding the chicken. You can use tongs if that’s handier for you.
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a zesty finish.
- Mushroom Delight: Include sliced mushrooms in the slow cooker for earthy flavor and texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Use jackfruit or chickpeas instead of chicken for a plant-based version.
- Low-Carb Delight: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to keep it light.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
- Simple Veggies: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast with the rich gravy.
- Refreshing Drink: Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing balance.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives brightens up the dish.
FAQs about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember that you might need to extend the cooking time a bit. Frozen chicken breasts can still become tender and juicy in the slow cooker.
Can I make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. Just plug it in the next day, and you’ll have a comforting dinner waiting for you.
What sides work best with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy?
Steamed veggies like green beans or a simple salad work wonderfully. If you’re feeling indulgent, mashed potatoes are also a great pairing with that rich gravy!
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Definitely! If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting with a low-fat cream of chicken soup or a homemade roux-based sauce. Just keep an eye on the sodium levels.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can pop it in the microwave or let it gently warm on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken & Gravy truly embodies the comfort of a homemade meal without the fuss. Every bite speaks of warmth and love, reminding us that delicious food doesn’t have to be time-consuming. The joy in sharing this dish with family is unparalleled, as you watch them savor each spoonful over rice. It’s more than just a meal; it’s about building memories around the table amidst laughter and stories. So, the next time you’re pressed for time, remember this recipe. It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with joy, flavor, and a touch of home.
PrintCrockpot Chicken & Gravy
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious slow-cooked chicken dish served with gravy over rice.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 (0.87 oz each) envelopes dry chicken gravy mix
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional)
- Hot steamed rice (to serve)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker base. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
- Whisk together unsalted cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, and water or chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour sauce mixture evenly over chicken in slow cooker. Cover with lid.
- Cook on LOW heat for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is tender and flavors are well developed.
- Break chicken into bite-sized pieces directly in slow cooker to evenly distribute sauce before serving.
- Ladle chicken and gravy over hot steamed rice and enjoy.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for a heartier meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg