Description: This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is the epitome of comfort food made easy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender chicken dish that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe delivers big on taste without requiring you to spend hours in the kitchen. The creamy gravy, infused with the savory essence of chicken, envelops the perfectly cooked chicken breasts, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or even biscuits, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix (about 1 ounce each) – Ensure the gravy mix is gluten-free if needed for dietary restrictions.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup – A low-sodium version can be used to control salt content.
- 1 ½ cups water or chicken broth – Chicken broth will enhance the overall chicken flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference, keeping in mind the sodium content of the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness) – Unsalted butter is recommended to control sodium levels.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Fresh chives also work wonderfully.
Preparation:
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for even the most novice cooks. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on other tasks while your crockpot does all the work.
Step 1:
Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coat it with oil. This prevents the chicken and gravy from sticking to the bottom and makes cleanup a breeze. A crockpot liner can also be used for even easier cleanup, but spraying or oiling the liner is still recommended. Make sure the crockpot is clean and ready to use.
Step 2:
Place the Chicken: Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the prepared crockpot. Ensure the chicken isn’t overlapping, as this can affect even cooking. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken breasts dry. This allows the seasoning to adhere better and enhances the texture. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to distribute the seasoning evenly for a consistent flavor profile.
Step 3:
Mix the Gravy: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water (or chicken broth) until the mixture is smooth and well combined. It is important to ensure there are no lumps in the mixture. If using chicken broth, consider a low-sodium variety to control the salt content. For an even richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for part of the water or broth, though this will significantly increase the calorie count.
Step 4:
Pour Over Chicken: Carefully pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the gravy mixture to ensure it remains moist and absorbs the flavors during the cooking process. If necessary, use a spoon to spread the gravy evenly.
Step 5:
Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the specific crockpot being used. A meat thermometer should be used to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. If cooking on low, check the chicken after 6 hours; if cooking on high, check after 3.5 hours.
Step 6:
Shred or Serve Whole: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, you have the option to either serve the chicken breasts whole or shred them directly in the crockpot. If you prefer shredded chicken, use two forks to gently pull the chicken apart, creating a delicious pulled-chicken texture that readily absorbs the gravy. If serving whole, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7:
Add Butter (Optional): For added richness and a velvety smooth gravy, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of the cooking process. Allow the butter to melt completely into the gravy, stirring until it is fully incorporated. This simple addition can significantly enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Step 8:
Serve: Spoon the crockpot chicken and gravy generously over your choice of side dishes. Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, quinoa, or even creamy polenta are all excellent options. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Effortless Preparation: It requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy individuals.
- Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts become incredibly tender and moist as they cook in the gravy.
- Versatile: This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
- Affordable: The ingredients are easily accessible and budget-friendly.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning before work, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Spoon over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a lighter option.
- Serve over egg noodles for a classic and comforting combination.
- Use the chicken and gravy as a filling for biscuits or dinner rolls.
- Serve with a side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or peas for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over creamy polenta for a rich and flavorful meal.
- Serve over quinoa for a healthy and high-protein option.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, brown the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot.
- Add chopped vegetables such as onions, carrots, or celery to the crockpot for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use low-sodium ingredients to control the salt content of the dish.
- If the gravy is too thick, add more water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- If the gravy is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Experiment with different seasonings such as Italian seasoning, paprika, or chili powder to customize the flavor.
- If you like a thicker gravy, add a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 4 hours (high) Total Time: 6-8 hours
Nutritional Information:
Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 310-350 per serving
- Protein: 35-40 grams per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on ingredients used, approximately 500-700mg per serving. (Use low-sodium options to lower the sodium content)
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and comforting meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to deliver. The tender chicken and creamy gravy are a match made in heaven, and the versatility of this dish allows you to serve it with your favorite side dishes. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and prepare to enjoy a truly exceptional meal.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: While it’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for optimal texture and even cooking, you can use frozen chicken in a crockpot. However, you must ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid bacterial growth. Cooking frozen chicken will extend the cooking time significantly, so add an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time. It’s also important to note that the texture may be slightly different compared to using thawed chicken. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety. The USDA does not recommend cooking frozen chicken breasts in a slow cooker, because it might stay in the danger zone (above 40°F) for too long, leading to bacterial growth.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free chicken gravy mix and ensuring that your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of these products, so check the labels carefully. Also, be sure any side dishes you serve with the chicken and gravy are also gluten-free if needed.
Q3: What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
A: This recipe is very adaptable, and you can add a variety of vegetables to customize the flavor and add extra nutrients. Some great options include sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped onions, sliced mushrooms, and even frozen mixed vegetables. Add the vegetables to the crockpot along with the chicken and gravy mixture, adjusting the cooking time if necessary.
Q4: Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless, skinless breasts?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Bone-in chicken will add more flavor to the gravy, but it may take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and the meat is easily falling off the bone. Remove the skin before cooking or after for lower fat content.
Q5: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled down to room temperature before storing it. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the chicken is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can reheat the leftovers in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.
