Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that brings together the comfort of home cooking with the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Plus, you can serve it over rice for a complete meal that satisfies everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream of chicken soup and gravy mix creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles—this dish fits any meal plan.
• Family-Friendly: With simple ingredients and great taste, it’s a hit for both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy experience seamless, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is not only easy but also enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, making your chicken incredibly tender.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to getting the right balance of flavors in your dish.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining your soup and gravy mix before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Spoon for mixing: Perfect for stirring ingredients together to ensure even distribution.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
• 2 packets (0.87 oz each) chicken gravy mix
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional)

For Serving

• Hot cooked rice

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Total Time: 250 minutes

How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted cream of chicken soup and both packets of chicken gravy mix. Stir well until fully blended.

Step 3: Add Liquid

If using, add water or chicken broth to your sauce mixture. This will thin it out slightly, allowing it to cover the chicken more effectively.

Step 4: Combine Everything in Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in your slow cooker. Ensure that all pieces are coated evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cook for about 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once done, serve your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy over hot cooked rice. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!

How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Serving Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can elevate your meal experience. This dish is not only comforting but also versatile, making it a great option for various occasions.

Over Hot Cooked Rice

• A classic pairing that helps soak up the delicious gravy, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect canvas for the rich gravy, creating a hearty plate that everyone will love.

In a Sandwich

• Use shredded chicken and gravy as a filling for sandwiches. Toasted bread adds an enjoyable crunch.

On Top of Biscuits

• Serve the chicken and gravy over warm biscuits for a delightful breakfast or brunch option that’s sure to please.

How to Perfect Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

To make your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy even better, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Adjust thickness: If you want a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water or broth added.
• Season wisely: Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
• Cook on low: For best results, cook on low for 4 hours; this ensures tender chicken that falls apart easily.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your plate.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the gravy with its crunchy texture and tangy flavor.

3. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread complements the savory chicken, making it an excellent side.

4. Roasted Carrots
   Roasted carrots bring sweetness and caramelization that pairs nicely with the savory gravy.

5. Garden Salad
   A simple garden salad provides freshness and crunch, making it a light accompaniment.

6. Quinoa Pilaf
   Quinoa pilaf is nutritious and offers a nutty flavor that works well with the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when using a crockpot. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Boldly skip the searing: Not browning the chicken first can lead to a lack of flavor. Searing adds depth and richness.
• Boldly skip the broth: Using only cream of chicken soup without broth may result in a thick dish. Adding broth helps balance the consistency.
• Boldly overload the crockpot: Filling the pot too much can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Boldly ignore timing: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on cooking times based on your crockpot’s settings.
• Boldly forget about seasoning: Relying solely on pre-packaged mixes may lead to bland flavors. Consider adding herbs and spices for extra zest.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between sessions, until hot throughout.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

How long does Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy last in the fridge?

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works great as a substitute, providing a similar flavor profile.

Is it possible to make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute with dairy-free cream alternatives or use broth instead of cream of chicken soup.

What sides go well with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables to my Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

Yes! Feel free to add carrots, peas, or any other veggies you enjoy for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a delightful recipe that offers comfort with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your family will love it!