Name: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 370 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup chicken broth; 1 can (10 ounce) cream of chicken soup; 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning; 2 packets (0.87 ounces each) chicken gravy mix; 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Why Choose Crockpot Meals?

When it comes to meal prep, crockpot meals are a game changer. Imagine coming home after a long day, and the first thing that greets you is the aroma of a home-cooked meal waiting just for you! Crockpot Chicken and Gravy embodies this convenience perfectly.

One of the best aspects of using a crockpot is its low-effort, high-reward nature. Simply toss your ingredients into the pot in the morning, set it on low, and let it work its magic while you're busy with your day. This slow-cooking method not only enhances the flavors but also ensures your chicken turns out tender and juicy—just how comfort food should be.

For those busy young professionals who might be worried about balancing work, social lives, and healthy eating, slow-cooker meals provide an excellent solution. A survey by the USDA found that 70% of people find cooking at home helps them save time and money, and crockpots are often the stars of those efforts. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—one pot does it all!

Ready to dive into a delicious, easy-to-make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe? You'll be glad you did. It's the answer to satisfying your hunger without draining your energy.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Creating the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy starts with the right ingredients. Let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this comforting dish!

Essential Ingredients

To make this easy recipe, here’s your shopping list:

½ cup chicken broth - This adds a depth of flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup - A key player in achieving that creamy consistency that everyone loves.
1 tablespoon chicken seasoning - This is where you can really enhance the flavors—think garlic powder, onion powder, and maybe even a bit of thyme.
2 packets chicken gravy mix (0.87 ounces each) - For that rich, savory taste.
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts - The star of the show, make sure they're good quality for the best results.

Optional Add-ins

Feeling adventurous? Here are some optional add-ins to elevate your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

Vegetables: Throw in some diced carrots, celery, or even frozen peas for added nutrition.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be a delightful addition, infusing even more earthiness into the dish.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can provide a fresh twist—just toss them in before serving.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to a delicious dinner! For more tips and tricks on cooking, check out American Culinary Federation.

Step-by-step Preparation of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Gather the Ingredients

To kick off your journey to creating a comforting dish of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, you'll want to ensure you have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup chicken broth: This will serve as the flavorful base for your gravy.
1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Gives richness to the gravy.
1 tablespoon chicken seasoning: Choose your favorite blend, whether store-bought or homemade.
2 packets chicken gravy mix (0.87 ounces each): For that classic gravy flavor!
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing tender meat that absorbs all that delicious taste.

Make sure to grab everything before starting, as there’s nothing worse than realizing mid-recipe that you’re missing an essential ingredient!

Mix the Base in the Crockpot

With your ingredients in hand, it’s time to assemble the base in your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth, the cream of chicken soup, and the chicken seasoning into the crockpot. Then, sprinkle in the chicken gravy mix. Stir it well until everything is nicely combined — this will be the luscious sauce that envelops your chicken as it cooks. The rich aroma rising will have your stomach rumbling in anticipation!

Add the Chicken

Now, it’s time to elevate this dish by adding the chicken. Gently place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot, ensuring they’re covered with the gravy mixture. This way, they’ll soak up all those lovely flavors as they cook!

Cooking Techniques

Set your crockpot to low, allowing the chicken to cook for 5-6 hours. If you’re pressed for time, you can use the high setting for 3-4 hours instead. Either way, the key here is the slow, steady cooking that keeps the chicken juicy and tender. It’s the perfect opportunity to catch up on your favorite podcast or series while you let your crockpot do the hard work!

Shredding the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up and your home is filled with the irresistible scent of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks—this step is crucial for ensuring that every piece is coated in that delicious gravy upon serving.

Final Stir and Serve

After shredding, return the chicken back to the crockpot and give everything a good final stir to mix it all together. Serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a fulfilling meal. You might want to add some steamed veggies on the side for a complete dinner. Trust us; everyone will be asking for seconds!

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll savor the heartwarming delight of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. Enjoy every bite!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

If you love our classic Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few delightful variations to spice up your slow-cooked chicken experience.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken

For a rich, earthy twist, add sliced mushrooms and a dash of garlic to your crockpot. This will create a velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Serve over egg noodles or rice for a cozy meal.

Herb-Infused Chicken

Can’t go wrong with fresh herbs! Toss in chopped rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. This variation adds a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for a light dinner.

Spicy Thai Chicken

Looking to kick it up a notch? Mix in some peanut sauce and a splash of coconut milk. The result is a mouthwatering, spicy take on your favorite Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. Pair with jasmine rice for the ultimate finish!

For more recipe inspiration, check out Food Network or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Using Frozen Chicken

You might be tempted to toss in frozen chicken directly into your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. While it’s convenient, it's best to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking. Thawed chicken cooks properly in about 5-6 hours on low, while frozen may take up to 8 hours. Thawed chicken also melds better with the spices and gravy. Need tips on safe thawing? Check out resources from the USDA on best practices.

Altering Cooking Times

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you need to adjust your cooking times. If you need your meal in a hurry, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is a great option. However, slow cooking on low develops richer flavors, so if you have time, go for the longer cook. Either way, you'll end up with delicious, tender chicken!

Storing Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers, make sure to store them right to keep that mouthwatering flavor intact. Allow the chicken and gravy to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing in individual portions, making weekday meals a breeze! Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for ultimate convenience.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.

Over Rice

Serving your tender chicken and rich gravy over fluffy white rice is a classic choice. The rice absorbs the gravy, creating a deliciously comforting plate that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

With Mashed Potatoes

For a heartwarming twist, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes combined with the savory gravy creates a delightful combination that’s hard to resist.

On Top of Biscuits

Feeling adventurous? Try placing your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy on top of warm biscuits. This Southern-inspired option makes for a satisfying meal, perfect for brunch or a special family dinner.

Explore more ideas on how to complement Crockpot Chicken and Gravy at Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Preparation Time

Getting started on your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and set everything up in the slow cooker.

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped the ingredients, let the magic happen. Cook the chicken on low for 5-6 hours (or high for 3-4 hours), allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Total Time

By the time you're ready to dig in, you’ll have spent a total of 6 hours and 10 minutes enjoying a hassle-free cooking experience with delicious results. After all that waiting, you’ll find it's well worth it! For more slow cooker tips, check out this article on slow cooking that dives deeper into making the most of your crockpot recipes.

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Calories

Each serving of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy contains just 67 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for dinner. This is great if you're looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor!

Protein

With 12 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent source to help support muscle growth and keep you feeling full longer. Protein is essential for everyone, especially if you lead an active lifestyle.

Sodium

One serving contains 122 mg of sodium, which is relatively low compared to many other ready-made meals. Being mindful of sodium intake is crucial, especially if you're watching your heart health. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to make this dish even healthier!

For more insights on maintaining a balanced diet, check out resources from the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken for your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a convenient option. Just remember to increase the cooking time by about an hour. While it may take a little longer, the slow cooker will ensure that your chicken turns out juicy and tender, ready to be shredded into that rich, flavorful gravy.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

You’ll know your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, a quick test is to check if the chicken easily shreds with a fork. Tender, fall-apart pieces indicate that it’s ready!

What sides pair well with this dish?

When it comes to sides, you can’t go wrong! Try serving Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even steamed vegetables. A fresh side salad or crusty bread also makes wonderful accompaniments, adding a nice balance to your hearty meal.

For more tips and ideas, check out resources like Food Network or Allrecipes for delicious side dish suggestions!

Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

In conclusion, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a true crowd-pleaser that combines convenience and comfort in every bite. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Whether served over rice or potatoes, it promises tenderness and flavor that everyone will love. Give it a try!