Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a hearty dish that brings comfort to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to enjoy tender, juicy chicken simmered in savory gravy. Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal suitable for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish requires just a few minutes of prep time, letting you focus on other tasks or relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ranch dressing mix and brown gravy creates a deliciously savory sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Ideal over rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy freezes well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers later with ease.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes the cooking process smooth. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This slow cooker does all the work for you. It cooks the chicken evenly while infusing it with flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for mixing ingredients without spills, ensuring everything blends perfectly.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine dry mixes with liquids smoothly, preventing clumps in your gravy.
• Forks: Useful for shredding the chicken easily after cooking, ensuring every piece is coated in delicious gravy.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Approximately 1.5 lbs)

For the Gravy

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 oz)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (1 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Seasoning

• to taste salt
• to taste pepper

Garnish

• chopped parsley (For garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crockpot.

Step 2: Mix the Gravy Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ranch dressing mix
2. Brown gravy mix
3. Chicken broth
4. Cream of chicken soup

Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Gravy Mixture

Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Ensure each piece is well-coated.

Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot

Cook on low heat for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the gravy.

Step 6: Add Sour Cream

Stir in sour cream and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve the flavorful chicken and gravy over rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley for an appealing touch.

Optional Additions

For added flavor, consider including chopped onions or garlic during cooking.

Leftovers Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish freezes well for future meals.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that soaks up all that delicious sauce.

Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for the chicken and gravy, adding an extra layer of comfort to the dish.

With Biscuits

• Flaky biscuits are perfect for sopping up the savory gravy. Consider serving warm biscuits on the side or even layered with the chicken.

In Tacos

• For a fun twist, use the shredded chicken and gravy as a filling for soft tortillas. Top with fresh vegetables and avocado.

On a Salad

• Create a hearty salad by topping mixed greens with shredded chicken and gravy. Add your favorite veggies for crunch.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the dish with roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor, balancing out the richness of the gravy.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Perfecting your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can elevate this comforting dish to new heights. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.

• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. It enhances the overall taste of your gravy.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to customize seasonings based on your preferences. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can add depth.

• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Cooking on low heat helps develop flavors and ensures tender chicken. Avoid turning up the heat unless necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken and gravy.

2. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread is an excellent accompaniment that complements the savory flavors of the dish perfectly.

3. Coleslaw
   A light coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the meal.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with veggies offers nutritious fiber while remaining light on the palate.

5. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is great for dipping into that delicious gravy, making every bite enjoyable.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with savory flavors from the crockpot dish.

7. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb option, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well while keeping meals light and healthy.

8. Stuffing
   Flavorful stuffing can soak up any leftover gravy, making it an indulgent side choice alongside chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using frozen chicken – Frozen chicken may not cook evenly in the crockpot. Always use thawed chicken for consistent results.
• Skipping the seasoning – Overlooking seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Not shredding the chicken – Leaving chicken breasts whole can result in a tough texture. Shred the chicken after cooking for better absorption of the gravy.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking for too long or too short can affect tenderness. Stick to the recommended 6 hours on low for optimal results.
• Neglecting to taste – Failing to taste before serving can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always sample your dish and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

Crockpot Chicken And Gravy is a simple dish where chicken is slow-cooked in a rich gravy made from broth, soup, and seasonings.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless turkey or beef for chicken if desired.

How do I make it gluten-free?

To make Crockpot Chicken And Gravy gluten-free, use gluten-free ranch dressing mix and brown gravy mix.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Chopped carrots or potatoes can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to cook?

Crockpot Chicken And Gravy cooks on low for about 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken And Gravy is a versatile dish that brings comfort to any table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to customize with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is!