Nothing beats the aroma of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy wafting through your house, making you feel all warm and cozy. This dish is like a culinary hug, enveloping you in rich flavors and savory goodness that can brighten even the most mundane weeknight. Imagine tender chicken soaking up a luscious gravy, so delicious that it could make your taste buds dance the cha-cha.
Growing up, my mom would whip up this comforting meal on chilly evenings when we’d gather around the table after a long day. The anticipation was palpable as we waited for the magical moment when she’d lift the lid off the crockpot, releasing clouds of savory steam. It’s a dish that feels like home – perfect for family dinners or even when you need to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy allows you to set it and forget it while enjoying the delightful flavors.
- The creamy gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a versatile option for any meal.
- Plus, it’s visually appealing with its golden hue, ensuring your dinner plate looks as good as it tastes.
- A perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically about 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic brings out the best in this dish.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth to your gravy.
Gravy Mix: A packet of chicken gravy mix gives you that rich flavor without any fuss—perfect for busy days.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds an extra layer of savory goodness; trust me, it’s worth it!
For the Sauce:
Butter: A couple of tablespoons melted butter will help create that creamy texture we all love in gravy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by spraying your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This makes cleanup easier later on.
Step 2: Add Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Feel free to give them a little pep talk about how they’re about to become something amazing!
Step 3: Mix Your Ingredients
In a bowl, combine chicken broth, garlic, gravy mix, and onion soup mix. Whisk until smooth—like a good dance partner should be!
Step 4: Pour Over Chicken
Pour this glorious mixture over your chicken in the crockpot. Just look at that golden goodness!
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on low for about six hours or high for three hours depending on your schedule. Now go binge-watch your favorite show!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once cooked through and tender, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. You can stir everything together to ensure each bite is filled with flavor. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for an unforgettable meal!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Your taste buds just sent me a thank-you note!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- It transforms simple chicken into a comforting meal with rich gravy, making dinner feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your chicken generously before placing it in the crockpot. Pour the gravy over it and let it cook on low for about six to eight hours. This ensures the chicken absorbs all that delicious flavor while staying juicy and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Additional seasonings like garlic powder or thyme can elevate the dish further. Toss in some veggies like carrots or potatoes to make it a full meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the gravy thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always sear your chicken before adding it to the crockpot.
- This locks in moisture and creates a richer flavor profile that elevates your dish significantly.
- Don’t rush; patience yields better results!
- Also, taste as you go!
- Adjust seasonings along the way for the best flavor.
My friend once tasted this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy at my housewarming party and declared it her new favorite comfort food. She later begged me for the recipe—now that’s some serious kitchen validation!
FAQs:
What is Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory gravy, all cooked slowly in a crockpot. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal prep time and yields a satisfying meal perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Cooking Crockpot Chicken and Gravy generally takes about 4 to 6 hours on high heat or 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the flavorful gravy. It’s best to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. However, it’s essential to ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by an hour or two, depending on your crockpot’s settings. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy pairs wonderfully with various sides. Popular choices include fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or even buttery noodles. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or fresh green salads for a balanced meal that highlights the rich flavors of the gravy.
Conclusion for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is an effortless yet delicious dish that brings comfort to any dinner table. With its easy preparation, you can enjoy flavorsome chicken enveloped in a luscious gravy without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this recipe caters to everyone’s taste buds while providing flexibility in serving options. Try it today for a warm, satisfying meal!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Tender chicken breasts simmer slowly in a rich, savory gravy, creating a dish that warms both heart and soul. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this easy recipe ensures a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Spray the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, garlic, gravy mix, and onion soup mix until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- Shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir to combine with the gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 246g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. - You can substitute turkey for chicken or add veggies like carrots or potatoes to make it a complete meal.
