Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: Easy Comfort Food Recipe
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken with rich, savory gravy, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The appeal of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy lies in its simplicity and convenience, making it an ideal choice for busy families who want to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish allows you to set it and forget it—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need to juggle work, family, and other responsibilities. As it slowly cooks, the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, this delightful entrée has earned its place in many households as a go-to easy dinner option. Its versatility also makes it a great choice for meal prepping, allowing you to have wholesome meals ready to go for the week ahead. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this delicious dish, ensuring that it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.
What You Need to Know Before Making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Creating the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy requires a little bit of know-how. Understanding your ingredients and making the right choices can enhance the final dish and ensure it turns out delicious every time. Below are crucial factors to consider before diving into this comforting meal.
1. Understanding Your Ingredients
The basic components of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy are straightforward: chicken and gravy. However, the quality and type of these ingredients can significantly impact the flavor and texture of the dish. When selecting chicken, consider the fat content and moisture levels that different cuts provide. Likewise, the gravy can be made from scratch or from canned options, but using high-quality pre-made soups can save time without compromising taste.
2. Choosing the Right Chicken
When it comes to chicken, you have several options. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, but they can dry out if overcooked. On the other hand, chicken thighs are richer in flavor and moisture, making them a great choice for slow cooking. Additionally, you might find yourself wondering whether to use frozen or fresh chicken. While frozen chicken can be convenient, ensure it is cooked for a longer duration to reach a safe internal temperature. Fresh chicken is generally preferred as it cooks evenly and retains its juiciness.
3. The Benefits of Using a Crockpot
The slow cooker is a fantastic tool for this dish. Not only does it offer the convenience of hands-off cooking, but it also develops deeper flavors as the ingredients meld together over an extended period. The low and slow method of cooking transforms the chicken into tender, succulent pieces that practically fall apart, enveloped in a rich, savory gravy. This makes the crockpot an indispensable appliance for busy weeknights, enabling families to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Detailed Recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Now that you have a better understanding of the foundational aspects of making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, it’s time to dive into the detailed recipe. Follow these steps for a hearty, delicious dinner that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or homemade version)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or thyme)
Directions
- Prepare the crockpot: Grease the interior with cooking spray.
- Layer the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Optional: Shred the chicken for a more homogenous style and mix back into the gravy before serving.
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To elevate your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy experience, consider these cooking tips and variations that can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes to the crockpot for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Seasoning Balance: Experiment with different seasoning blends, such as Italian seasoning or Cajun spices, for a flavorful twist.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your meal can help you make informed decisions. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional content per serving of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
When compared to traditional chicken and gravy recipes that may include higher calorie gravies or added fats, this version remains a comfort food option that is relatively light and satisfying.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Complement your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with some delicious side dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are a few recommendations:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that can soak up the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice for an easy and filling option.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a crisp texture and a pop of color to your plate.
- Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the rich gravy, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Tips for Meal Prep and Freezing
Meal prepping your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can save you time during busy weeks. Here’s how to effectively prep and store this dish:
- Prepping Ingredients: You can chop vegetables and portion out chicken ahead of time, storing them in resealable bags or airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing Leftovers: If you have leftover chicken and gravy, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Instructions: Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little water or broth if it seems too thick upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some variations of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
There are plenty of variations to try! Consider adding vegetables like celery and carrots, or even different seasoning blends such as garlic powder or paprika. You can also switch out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or a homemade version for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to cook chicken in a crockpot?
Cooking times can vary based on the size and type of chicken. On low, chicken breasts typically take 6-8 hours, while thighs may cook in the same timeframe. Cooking on high can reduce your time to about 3-4 hours.
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen chicken will require longer cooking. Additionally, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version, opt for dairy-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using coconut milk and dairy-free alternatives for seasonings. You can also use dairy-free ranch seasoning.
What to do if the gravy is too thin?
If you find your gravy is too thin after cooking, simply mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the gravy and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken it up.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. With its ease of preparation, flexibility with ingredients, and rich flavors, it’s ideal for anyone seeking a satisfying dinner option. Don’t hesitate to try the recipe, and enjoy the delicious outcome with your loved ones.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot (slow cooker)
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix About 1 ounce.
- 1 packet brown gravy mix About 1 ounce.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together the dry ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the gravy in the crockpot, stirring to combine.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles as desired.
