Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, especially after a long day. This Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe has become a family favorite in our household. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it’s a dish that not only satisfies our hunger but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. My kids can’t get enough of it, often asking for seconds, and my husband appreciates how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, this meal is perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 packets chicken gravy mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Mashed potatoes or rice for serving

Instructions

Place Chicken

Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of a crockpot. This will serve as the base for your delicious meal.

Mix Gravy Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture will create a rich and creamy gravy that will envelop the chicken as it cooks.

Pour Gravy

Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken that is easy to shred.

Shred Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Mix it well with the gravy to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Serve

Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. For a touch of color and freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (using low setting)

How to Serve

• Serve the chicken and gravy over:
• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Garnish with:
• Fresh parsley
• A sprinkle of black pepper
• Pair with sides like:
• Steamed vegetables
• A simple green salad

Additional Tips

1. Use Frozen Chicken: If you’re short on time, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; they may need an extra hour on low.
2. Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, toss in some chopped carrots, celery, or peas at the beginning of the cooking process.
4. Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook it on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
5. Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

• Herb Chicken and Gravy: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the gravy mixture for an herbaceous flavor.
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Stir in a can of sliced mushrooms with the gravy mixture for an earthy touch.
• BBQ Chicken: Substitute the gravy mix with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of cream of chicken soup and substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of buttery corn or garlic green beans for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the extra gravy.
• For a heartier meal, add a side of biscuits.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs work great and will result in a richer flavor.

1. Is it necessary to use cream of chicken soup?

• If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade alternative.

1. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop?

• Yes, you can simmer the chicken and gravy in a pot on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the chicken is tender.

1. What if I don’t have chicken broth?

• Water can be used in a pinch, but broth will enhance the flavor significantly.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just make sure your crockpot has enough capacity to handle the extra ingredients.

1. How spicy is this dish?

• This recipe is mild. You can add more spices or hot sauce to increase the heat.

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup to make this dish gluten-free.

1. What sides go well with this dish?

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables are great sides.

1. How long does this meal take to prepare?
   • It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with 6-8 hours of cooking time.

Conclusion

Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting dish. With its creamy gravy and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering, it’s bound to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this delightful dish!

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