The aroma of tender chicken slowly cooking in a rich, savory gravy can transport you back to warm family dinners; it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. My favorite Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe brings those nostalgic feelings to life! It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients, but it also provides flexibility with seasonal variations to keep things exciting. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, a plate of this chicken and gravy is sure to bring smiles all around the table. Ready to dive into the comfort that awaits? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this crockpot recipe a must-try?
Comforting Simplicity: Just toss in the ingredients, set your crockpot, and let it do the work! This dish is perfect for busy schedules.
Savory Richness: The combination of chicken and gravy creates an irresistible flavor that warms the soul.
Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or sauces, making it versatile for any time of year.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike rave about this dish, ensuring a hit at the dinner table.
Great for Leftovers: Leftovers make fantastic lunches; you can also pair it with options like Skillet Chicken Mushroom for variety throughout the week.
Nostalgic Flair: You’ll relish the reminder of home-cooked meals, making it a go-to comfort food classic.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The hero of your dish, providing tender, flavorful protein.
For the Gravy Mixture
• Ranch Dressing Mix – Infuses a zesty flavor; consider making your own mix for a fresher twist.
• Brown Gravy Mix – Delivers that rich, savory sauce; try using homemade gravy for a healthier touch.
• Chicken Broth – The base that enhances the gravy’s flavor; opt for low-sodium if you prefer.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess; swap it out for cream of mushroom soup for a unique flair.
• Sour Cream – Gives a tangy richness; can be substituted with Greek yogurt or skipped entirely if desired.
Seasonings
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; adjust according to your taste.
• Chopped Parsley – For a pop of color and fresh flavor; feel free to use other herbs to suit your preference.
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe guarantees a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are spaced evenly to ensure even cooking. This layer provides a solid foundation for your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy, allowing flavors to meld beautifully as the chicken cooks.
Step 2: Mix Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creamy blend adds rich flavor and aroma to your dish. Once mixed, you’re ready to bring everything together for that comforting gravy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. This will help the chicken absorb all the wonderful flavors as it cooks. With the chicken covered in the gravy, you’re one step closer to the deliciousness of your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy.
Step 4: Cooking
Cover the crockpot with its lid, and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and infused with the savory gravy. If you peek, you’ll notice the sauce bubbling and thickening, a sure sign that your meal is coming together perfectly.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and take two forks to shred the chicken directly in the gravy. This not only makes it more manageable for serving but also allows the chicken to absorb even more of the flavorful sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
Step 6: Finish Sauce
Stir in the sour cream to the shredded chicken mixture, giving it a creamy finish. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. This final touch enhances the overall flavor of your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy, creating a delightful consistency perfect for serving.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the chicken and gravy generously over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. With everything ready, it’s time to share this heartwarming meal around the dinner table, bringing comfort to all who gather!
Crockpot Chicken And Gravy Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with this comforting dish. Tailor the flavors to your liking and seasonal ingredients!
-
Gluten-Free:
Replace the brown gravy mix with a certified gluten-free option, or use cornstarch mixed with water for thickening. -
Dairy-Free:
Swap out the sour cream for dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream for a rich, creamy alternative without the dairy. -
Vegetable Packed:
Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, like carrots and peas, which will cook beautifully alongside the chicken. -
Herb Infusion:
Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish’s flavor profile. -
Spicy Kick:
Toss in a few dashes of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to amp up the heat level for those who love a little spice. -
Tropical Flair:
Add diced pineapple or mango near the end of cooking for a sweet, tropical touch that contrasts nicely with the savory gravy. -
Savory Mushroom:
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the gravy mixture for an earthy flavor complimenting the chicken. -
Creamy Twist:
Instead of cream of chicken soup, try a blend of cream of mushroom and cream of celery soup for extra depth—and serve over fluffy rice or with a crusty loaf for maximum comfort!
These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also cater to diverse dietary needs and taste preferences. Enjoy exploring the flavors of your crockpot, and consider checking out more cozy recipes like Dolly’s Chicken Stuffing and Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich for delightful weeknight meals!
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Imagine gathering around the table, the rich aroma of savory gravy swirling in the air, perfectly complementing your meal.
- Fluffy Rice: Its subtle texture soaks up the delicious gravy, creating the perfect combination of comfort and flavor.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and smooth, these potatoes provide a rich base that enhances the savory goodness of the chicken and gravy.
- Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, they add a pop of color and a crunchy contrast that elevates the overall dish.
- Garlic Bread: Warm and crusty, perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy, transforming each bite into a delightful experience.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing side that balances the hearty essence of your main dish with its bright, zesty flavors.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness perfectly compliments the savory notes of the chicken, making them a wonderful side choice.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy addition that cuts through the richness of the gravy, offering a delightful contrast that many will love.
- Apple Pie: A classic dessert to follow your comforting meal, its warm spices and sweetness round off a cozy dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken And Gravy
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days, ensuring the gravy covers the chicken to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Transfer cooled Crockpot Chicken And Gravy to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
Serving Suggestion: When serving the leftovers, consider pairing the chicken and gravy with fresh sides like steamed veggies or crusty bread to elevate the meal experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Chicken and Gravy ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce mixture (ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the chicken can be seasoned and placed in the crockpot overnight, ready for the next day’s cooking. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the refrigerated sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6 hours. This ensures that the dish stays just as delicious while saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Sear for Flavor: Sear the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the crockpot to enhance its flavor depth significantly.
- Adjust Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, mix a slurry of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth can help control the saltiness while still delivering rich flavor in your Crockpot Chicken And Gravy.
- Keep it Tender: To prevent dryness, ensure the chicken has enough gravy surrounding it while cooking; adding extra broth if necessary can help.
- Reheat Carefully: When reheating leftovers, use the stovetop or slow cooker on low to maintain the dish’s tender texture instead of the microwave.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can start with frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to about 8 hours on low. It’s a great time-saver because you don’t need to thaw beforehand!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the gravy covers the chicken to keep it moist, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your gravy turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy and let it cook on low for about 15 minutes until thickened to your liking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the brown gravy mix with a gluten-free option, and ensure all your other ingredients, like chicken broth and ranch dressing mix, are labeled gluten-free. It’s a wonderful option for those needing a gluten-free meal.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
This cozy dish shines when served over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also add steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad on the side for a complete and delightful meal!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: The Ultimate Cozy Weeknight Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, spaced evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
- Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid, and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours.
- Once cooking time is up, remove the lid and shred the chicken directly in the gravy using two forks.
- Stir in the sour cream, and season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Ladle the chicken and gravy over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, garnishing with parsley.
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