Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
In my kitchen, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy has become an absolute favorite. It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether I’m looking for an easy meal after a long day or planning something special for family gatherings, this dish never disappoints. It’s creamy, flavorful, and best of all it’s made with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for so many reasons! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also delivers warm, hearty flavors that everyone will sit up and take notice of. You can throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to spend time with family, not in the kitchen.
If you’re looking for something kid-approved, budget-friendly, or just plain delicious, this is your dish. It’s also versatile enough for family brunches or casual get-togethers. The creamy gravy pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes, making it a meal that sticks to your ribs.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
Preparing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
This dish comes together seamlessly, leaving you to enjoy your day without the stress of constant monitoring. First, you’ll layer the chicken in the slow cooker, then mix up a simple gravy with a few pantry staples. Finally, pour it all together and let the slow cooker work its magic.
What You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Using cream of chicken soup gives it that flavorful creaminess, while the onion soup mix adds depth. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can always choose homemade versions for the soup for a fresh twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Mix the Gravy: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and chicken broth. Stir until well blended.
- Pour and Season: Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken and gravy over rice or mashed potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
As the chicken cooks, your home will fill with the enticing aroma of savory gravy. Serve it hot and watch as everyone eagerly fills their plates!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can be served up in many delightful ways! The obvious choice is over a fluffy mound of rice or creamy mashed potatoes. But don’t stop there! Here are a few more ideas:
- Pair it with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious gravy.
- For a twist, use it as a filling for burrito wraps or sandwiches.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to handle them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm up on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth will help revive the gravy’s creamy texture.
- Freeze: You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to divide it into portions for easy defrosting.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Searing Chicken: For an added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Make it Creamier: If you love extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream during the last hour of cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Diced carrots or celery can be added for a nutrient boost and a touch of sweetness.
- Leftover Use: Use any leftover chicken for salads, wraps, or even tacos!
Recipe Variations
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
- Spice it Up: Add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Different Sauces: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup for an earthy flavor or try a cheddar cheese soup for a cheesy twist.
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish with a fresh, fragrant note.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 350 | 34 g | 12 g | 16 g | 1 g | 2 g |
Enjoy this fantastic Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe! It’s an easy solution that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Happy cooking!
