Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the perfect meal for those days when you crave comfort food but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful gravy, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a hearty meal that feels like it took all day to prepare. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this delicious dish.
Ingredients
To make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 ounce) of dry chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons of water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Steps
Preparing the Ingredients
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure they are evenly coated.
Assembling in the Crockpot
- Add Chicken to the Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Mix the Gravy: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully covered.
Cooking
- Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is easy to shred with a fork.
Optional Thickening
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving and continue cooking on low.
Serving
- Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Stir to combine with the gravy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Variations
Here are some variations to customize your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy:
- Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like sliced mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the crockpot for a complete meal.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the gravy mixture for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Creamier Gravy: For an even creamier gravy, stir in a half cup of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Top the finished dish with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving for a cheesy version.
Tips
Follow these tips to ensure your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy turns out perfectly:
- Use Low Heat: Cooking on low heat allows the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- Check Liquid Levels: Ensure there is enough liquid to cover the chicken completely to prevent it from drying out.
- Don’t Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, overcooking can make the chicken too soft. Aim for 6-8 hours on low.
- Stir Occasionally: If possible, give the gravy a stir halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort and warmth to any day. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. By following the steps, tips, and variations provided, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, cooking time may need to be extended by 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
A: If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth to substitute the cream of chicken soup.
Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, chicken thighs or drumsticks work well in this recipe and will remain juicy during the slow cooking process.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Ensure that your cream of chicken soup and gravy mix are gluten-free, or make your own gravy using gluten-free ingredients.
