Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a classic comfort dish that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a rich and creamy gravy. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, making it a hearty favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 packet (1 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Make the Gravy Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Stir well to mix the shredded chicken with the gravy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
This recipe is a reliable, flavorful option for any meal, bringing the warmth and comfort of slow-cooked goodness to your table!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that not only warms the body but also the soul. Its creamy, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a go-to for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken slow-cooked to perfection with a rich and creamy gravy, resulting in a culinary experience that is both satisfying and versatile.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy has a universal appeal that’s hard to match. Best of all, it’s a low-maintenance recipe that allows you to set it and forget it, giving you the freedom to focus on your day while your crockpot does the work.
The Appeal of Slow-Cooked Goodness
One of the main draws of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the use of a slow cooker. This method of cooking allows flavors to develop gradually, ensuring a depth and richness that’s difficult to achieve with other techniques. The chicken absorbs the seasoning and gravy mixture as it cooks, resulting in a dish that is tender, flavorful, and deeply comforting.
Using a slow cooker also means less time spent actively cooking. For busy individuals and families, the ability to prepare a meal with just a few minutes of prep time is invaluable. Whether you’re juggling work, family commitments, or simply want to relax, this recipe takes the stress out of cooking without sacrificing taste or quality.
Versatility: A Dish for Every Occasion
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly versatile. The creamy, savory gravy makes it a natural companion to a variety of side dishes, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few pairing suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice for soaking up every bit of that luscious gravy. Mashed potatoes provide a hearty and comforting base that complements the creamy chicken perfectly.
- Rice: A great option for those looking for a slightly lighter pairing. The grains of rice absorb the gravy, creating a cohesive dish that’s flavorful and filling.
- Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta make for a satisfying combination, turning this recipe into a chicken and gravy pasta delight.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots can be served alongside to add a touch of freshness and color to the meal.
This versatility makes the dish suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to more formal gatherings. It can even be prepared in advance and reheated, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or potlucks.
Nutritional Highlights
While Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is undoubtedly a comfort food, it can also fit into a balanced diet with a few mindful choices. The recipe is high in protein, thanks to the chicken, which is an excellent source of lean protein that supports muscle growth and repair. Using low-sodium cream of chicken soup and broth can help reduce the sodium content for those watching their intake.
For added nutrition, consider pairing the dish with whole-grain rice or adding a side of leafy greens or a salad. These adjustments can make the meal more balanced while still preserving its comforting qualities.
Tips for Customization and Enhancement
One of the best things about Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is how easy it is to adapt to your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some tips for customization:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or peas directly into the crockpot for a one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture.
- Use Different Cuts of Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient and lean, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and tender texture.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a non-dairy alternative and use a plant-based broth to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can add an aromatic touch to the dish, elevating its flavor profile.
These small tweaks allow you to make the recipe your own, ensuring it fits your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Conclusion: A Timeless Favorite
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Its combination of tender chicken and creamy gravy offers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. The simplicity of the recipe, coupled with its versatility, makes it a reliable choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution, a dish to impress guests, or a meal to prepare in advance, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy delivers on all fronts. With its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. So, grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let this comforting classic bring a little extra warmth to your day.
Print
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a classic comfort dish that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a rich and creamy gravy. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, making it a hearty favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 packet (1 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Make the Gravy Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Stir well to mix the shredded chicken with the gravy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.