Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a dish that wraps you in a warm, comforting embrace with every bite. Imagine succulent chicken bathing in rich, savory gravy that dances on your taste buds like a jubilant waltz at a family gathering. The aroma wafts through the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
This culinary masterpiece isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about nostalgia too. I remember my grandma whipping this up on rainy days, her laughter mingling with the hearty scents as we gathered around the table. It was the perfect centerpiece for cozy family dinners or those lazy Sundays when all you need is comfort food and good company. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you eagerly reaching for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors meld beautifully during slow cooking, creating a mouthwatering dish.
- Its golden gravy looks irresistible and will have everyone asking for more.
- Perfectly versatile—serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even with crusty bread!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are perfect for this recipe; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping flavors robust.
- Gravy Mix: A packet of your favorite gravy mix can save time and effort while ensuring rich flavor.
- Onion Soup Mix: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish—trust me, it’s magic!
- Fresh Garlic: You’ll want fresh garlic cloves for that aromatic punch; dried just won’t cut it.
For the Sauce:
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons of butter enriches the gravy and adds silkiness.
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 Chicken
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts into your trusty crockpot. No need for fancy cooking skills here; just lay them down sweetly as if tucking them into bed.
Step 2: Mix Your Magic
In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, gravy mix, onion soup mix, and minced garlic. Whisk it all together until smooth—this mixture is going to be the star of our show!
Step 3: Pour It On
Gently pour the savory sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Feel free to give everything a little gentle stir; however, the chicken should remain mostly submerged in that delicious liquid.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your crockpot and set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for around three hours. Just imagine how good it’ll smell while cooking—your neighbors might come knocking!
Step 5: Shred That Chicken
Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the crockpot. Using two forks (or your bare hands if you’re feeling adventurous), shred that tender chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it back to its flavorful bath.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer servings onto plates alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. Drizzle generous amounts of that luscious gravy over everything and prepare yourself for compliments galore!
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is not just another meal; it’s an experience you can savor with loved ones around you. The beauty lies in its simplicity—making it an absolute go-to on any hectic day or cozy evening at home. So grab those ingredients and let’s create some culinary magic together!
You Must Know
- This delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- It combines tender chicken with a rich gravy that practically begs to be slathered over mashed potatoes.
- Plus, the smell wafting through your home will make you feel like a culinary genius!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken generously before adding it to the crockpot. Pour in your gravy mix, and let it simmer on low for several hours. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for an easy, satisfying meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by adding veggies like carrots or peas during the last hour of cooking. You can also replace the gravy mix with homemade gravy or use different seasonings to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, always use boneless thighs instead of breasts; they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken first for added depth of flavor.
- And remember, patience is key; let it cook low and slow for the best results!
Sometimes I think my crockpot should get its own award for how easy it makes life! I recall a dinner party where my friends were convinced I spent hours on this dish when really, it just simmered away while I sipped wine.
FAQs:
What is the best way to serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. For a classic meal, serve it over mashed potatoes or cooked rice to soak up the flavorful gravy. You can also accompany it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. easy chicken caesar wrap If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it in a sandwich using crusty bread or as a filling for wraps. roasted garlic kale caesar salad chicken caesar pasta salad The versatility of this dish allows you to customize your meals based on your preferences and dietary needs.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken when making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. However, ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly by extending the cooking time by about an hour. This ensures that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If you choose to start with frozen chicken, avoid adding extra liquid initially, as the ice will melt and create enough moisture for the gravy.
How do I thicken the gravy for my Crockpot Chicken?
To thicken the gravy for your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water in a bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir well to combine and allow it to thicken as it continues cooking. Alternatively, you can remove some of the gravy, boil it on the stove with flour or cornstarch until thickened, then return it to the crockpot before serving.
Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Crockpot Chicken and Gravy ahead of time. Simply assemble all ingredients in your crockpot, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours before serving. This makes meal planning easy while ensuring that you have a delicious dish ready when you need it.
Conclusion for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort to any table. With its tender chicken and rich gravy, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. This recipe offers versatility in serving options, easily adapting to your favorite sides or even sandwiches. delicious chicken burrito recipe By preparing it ahead of time or using frozen chicken, you streamline meal prep without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with a rich, savory gravy that feels like a warm hug. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Just toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy the delightful aromas filling your home. Serve it over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, gravy mix, onion soup mix, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the gravy.
- Serve over rice or mashed potatoes, drizzled with extra gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 220g)
- Calories: 354
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 113mg
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