Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Introduction

Welcome to the world of flavorful and tender crockpot chicken and gravy. This classic comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious and effortless meal. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a hearty dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For this delectable crockpot chicken and gravy, you will need the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 packet of dry onion soup mix

– 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup

– 1 cup of chicken broth

– 1/2 cup of water

– 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Follow these simple steps to create your crockpot chicken and gravy:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will add a burst of flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Mix the Gravy

In a bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water. Stir well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the gravy mixture over them. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the gravy.

Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time will result in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. The chicken should be tender enough to easily pull apart.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the crockpot. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and pour it into the crockpot. Stir well and let the gravy thicken for a few minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the gravy has thickened to your liking, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well to coat it in the flavorful gravy. Serve the crockpot chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your crockpot chicken and gravy:

1. Add Vegetables

You can add your favorite vegetables to the crockpot along with the chicken and gravy. Carrots, peas, and mushrooms work well in this dish and add extra flavor and nutrition.

2. Use Different Seasonings

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to enhance the flavors. A sprinkle of paprika can also add a touch of smokiness.

3. Make it Creamier

If you prefer a creamier gravy, you can stir in some heavy cream or sour cream at the end of the cooking time. This will give the dish a rich and velvety texture.

4. Double the Recipe

If you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers for future meals, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure your crockpot can accommodate the additional ingredients.

Tips

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your crockpot chicken and gravy turns out perfectly:

1. Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer dark meat or want an even juicier chicken, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

2. Don’t Overcook

Be careful not to overcook the chicken as it can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check the chicken for doneness before serving.

3. Adjust the Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to suit your palate.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and gravy is a timeless dish that never fails to satisfy. With its tender and flavorful chicken smothered in a rich and savory gravy, it’s a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this easy and fuss-free recipe will make you a hero in the kitchen. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will warm your heart and soul.