Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and convenience, then this Crockpot Chicken And Gravy recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The juicy chicken breasts soak up all the delicious gravy, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet satisfying. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or meal prep because it feeds a crowd without much effort.

I love how simple it is to throw everything into the crockpot and let it do its magic. There’s nothing quite like coming home to the delightful aroma of dinner already cooked and ready to serve. This recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it until dinner time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves chicken and gravy, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; you can easily make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of ranch dressing and gravy creates a rich taste that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! They come together beautifully to create a dish that is not only comforting but also packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for this Crockpot Chicken And Gravy:

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Approximately 1.5 lbs)

For the Gravy

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 oz)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (1 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• chopped parsley (For garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste:

• Add some veggies: Toss in chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick.
• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your crockpot. This is where all the magic begins! Make sure they are laid out evenly so they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Whisk until smooth. This step is key because it creates that luscious gravy that will keep your chicken moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pour your creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Ensure each piece is well-coated with that delicious sauce. This helps infuse every bite with rich flavors as they cook.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for about 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender while absorbing all those wonderful flavors from the gravy.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the gravy. This not only makes serving easier but also ensures every piece is enveloped in that tasty sauce!

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Stir in half a cup of sour cream until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds creaminess and balances out all those robust flavors, giving you that ultimate comfort food experience.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Serve your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color!

Step 8: Optional Add-ins

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to your crockpot at the beginning. They will enhance your dish even more!

Step 9: Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard because it’s so good!), this dish freezes well for future meals—just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing!

Enjoy this delightful recipe; I hope it warms your heart as much as it does mine!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Cooking can be a breeze with some helpful tips, especially when it comes to this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality broth can enhance the flavor of your dish significantly, making every bite more delicious.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. This personalized touch will make the dish truly yours!
• Add extra veggies: Throw in some chopped onions or bell peppers at the beginning for added flavor and nutrition. They’ll infuse the gravy with a delightful taste.
• Thicken the gravy if needed: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it throughout the week for quick meals.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Serving up this hearty meal can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy for an inviting family dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions add a mild oniony crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy gravy.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green side offers a nutritious contrast to the richness of the chicken and gravy, making for a balanced meal.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that absorbs all that delicious gravy.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf, seasoned with herbs and spices, serves as a wonderful complement to soak up the flavors of your dish.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a touch of sweetness and color to your plate, enhancing both presentation and taste.

With these garnishing ideas and side dishes in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is not only a comforting meal but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to keep it fresh.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, covering loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and remain tender when cooked low and slow.

How do I make this Crockpot Chicken And Gravy healthier?

You can use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of sour cream or opt for Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. Adding more vegetables like carrots or celery can also boost its nutritional value.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook this dish on high heat for about 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on it to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy! It’s such a special dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it after a busy day or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to create wonderful memories. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!