Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that practically makes itself, then this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is exactly what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Imagine coming home after a long day to the warm, savory smell of chicken simmering in rich gravy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, and you’ve got yourself a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep – making it easy to have delicious leftovers ready for the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work.
• Family-friendly flavors: The savory taste of chicken and gravy is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for prepping meals ahead of time; simply freeze leftovers for later!
• Comfort food at its best: Warm, hearty, and fulfilling, this dish is like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry or local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Approximately 1.5 lbs)
• 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
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• chopped parsley (For garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breasts or even chicken thighs for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or peas for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Change up the sauce: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat in your gravy.

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 step is important because the chicken needs room to cook evenly while absorbing all those delicious flavors from the gravy.

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 mixture creates a rich sauce that will keep your chicken tender and flavorful throughout cooking.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated so that every bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot on low heat and let it cook for about six hours. Cooking slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while ensuring your chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the gravy. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps distribute that delicious sauce throughout your meal.

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in half a cup of sour cream until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. This addition makes your gravy creamy and adds richness that’s hard to resist!

Step 7: Serve Up Deliciousness

Serve your flavorful Crockpot Chicken And Gravy over rice or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for that fresh touch!

Step 8: Optional Extras

For even more flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic into your crockpot at the beginning! These aromatic additions will elevate this already wonderful dish.

Step 9: Enjoy Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which can be rare!), don’t worry! This dish freezes beautifully—just store it in an airtight container for future meals.

And there you have it! A delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort right into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Making this dish is a breeze, but these tips will help you elevate it to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can enhance the flavor profile of your chicken and gravy. Opting for fresh ingredients over dried can make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Adjust Seasoning: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt and pepper levels to suit your preference. This ensures that every bite is just right for you and your family.

• Add Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding vegetables like chopped carrots or celery to the crockpot. They will soften during cooking and enrich the flavor of the gravy while providing added texture.

• Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you a heartier sauce that clings beautifully to your chicken.

• Store Properly: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating slowly on the stove or in the microwave will help maintain its delicious flavors.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Serving this comforting dish can be as simple or as fancy as you want! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Chives or Green Onions: Thinly sliced chives or green onions offer a mild onion flavor that complements the gravy beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie brings a crunchy texture and balances out the richness of the chicken and gravy.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, making each bite satisfying.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing contrast to this hearty meal.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table! Enjoy your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to go for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken and gravy in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, use a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating in short intervals and stirring.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an additional hour of cooking time on low heat.

What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition!

How do I make my Crockpot Chicken And Gravy thicker?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use other cuts of chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well too; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Crockpot Chicken and Gravy as much as I do! It’s such a simple recipe that brings warmth to your table and is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Remember, it’s not just about the food—it’s about creating memories around shared meals. Enjoy every bite!