Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a hearty dish that practically cooks itself—enter Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those hectic weeknights when the last thing on my mind is slaving over a stove. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is a time-saver that provides maximum flavor. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of tender chicken bathed in rich, savory gravy, just waiting for you to dig in. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is a winner.

Reasons to try it

You might be wondering, why should you make Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy? First off, it’s incredibly simple. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. This recipe also shines when it comes to budget-friendliness. Boneless skinless chicken breasts are affordable, and the pantry staples like gravy mix and cream of chicken soup won’t break the bank. Not to mention, this dish is kid-approved—what’s not to love about chicken swimming in yummy gravy?

"I made this for my family last week, and there were no leftovers! The kids couldn’t get enough of the gravy over mashed potatoes. Definitely a new favorite!" – A happy home cook.

The cooking process explained

Making Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is as straightforward as it gets, which is one of the main reasons people fall in love with it. Start by layering juicy chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, adding in some seasoning to elevate those flavors. Once that’s done, simply whisk together a few easy ingredients—gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth—and pour it over the chicken. After that, choose your cooking time: a quicker high setting or a slow, simmering option. Finally, you can adjust the seasoning, garnish, and serve.

What you’ll need

To make this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 packets (0.87 oz each) chicken gravy mix
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Minced fresh parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to consider substitutions if necessary. For a lighter version, you could swap the cream of chicken soup for a low-fat alternative, and you can use vegetable broth for a different flavor profile!

Step-by-step instructions

Now, let’s dive into the straightforward cooking process:

Place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are in an even layer.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper to your liking.
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup until well combined.
Pour the gravy mixture over the seasoned chicken.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with minced fresh parsley for that pop of color!
Serve immediately over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice, or keep on warm until you’re ready to enjoy.

Best ways to enjoy it

Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy shines brightest when served over creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the gravy to soak into every fluffy bite. Alternatively, serve it over rice or even pasta for a different spin. You could also elevate your plate by adding a fresh garden salad or some steamed veggies to round out the meal. Plus, it’s an excellent dish to keep on warm for casual dinner parties, so guests can help themselves!

Keeping leftovers fresh

After enjoying your hearty meal, store any leftovers safely! Allow the chicken to cool and then transfer it into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and gravy for up to three months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.

Extra advice

To enhance the flavor of your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy, consider browning the chicken in a skillet beforehand. This step adds depth and richness, but it’s entirely optional. Also, don’t hesitate to throw in some vegetables like carrots or potatoes during cooking for a one-pot meal! It’s all about customizing it to your taste.

Creative twists

Are you feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to mix things up:

Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some red pepper flakes for a fiery version.
Creamy Mushroom: Swap out half the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for an earthy difference.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare? The hands-on prep for this dish is just about 10-15 minutes, so you can easily whip it up before heading out for the day.
Can I substitute the chicken? Yes! You can use chicken thighs or even turkey breasts. Just be mindful of the cooking time as darker meat may take longer to cook.
Is it safe to store and reheat? Absolutely! Just ensure to cool leftovers quickly and reheat to at least 165°F (74°C) before enjoying it again.

Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is quintessential comfort food that brings simplicity and satisfaction to any meal. Enjoy!