Crockpot Chicken and Gravy – Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Table of Contents
Every busy home cook faces the challenge of making a tasty meal quickly. This amazing crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is your solution. Imagine coming home to a warm, comforting meal. Tender chicken in rich, creamy gravy that’s just right.
This crockpot chicken recipe turns simple ingredients into a gourmet dinner with little effort. Just 2 pounds of chicken breasts and some pantry staples are needed. Your family will love it, and they’ll ask for more. The slow cooker works its magic, making the chicken tender and the flavors rich.
Key Takeaways
- Minimal prep time of just 5 minutes
- Serves 6 people comfortably
- Uses basic, affordable ingredients
- Perfect for busy weeknight dinners
- Slow cooker makes meal preparation effortless
Why This Easy Crockpot Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
Finding the right chicken crockpot recipe can change your weeknight dinners. This simple recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to save time without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Busy families face the challenge of making healthy meals quickly. This recipe makes dinner easy with just 4 hours 25 minutes of prep time. It serves up to 8 people, making it a great choice for big families.
- Total preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 6 hours
- Hands-off cooking method
- Minimal kitchen cleanup
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive. This recipe uses affordable ingredients. It’s a hearty meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
“Delicious meals don’t require complicated ingredients or hours of preparation.”
Minimal Prep Time Required
This recipe is a perfect mix of nutrition and convenience. Each serving is packed with protein and nutrients, but low in calories and carbs.
- 35g protein per serving
- Only 306 calories
- Low carbohydrate content
- Rich in essential nutrients
Whether you’re a busy parent, working professional, or just need an easy meal, this recipe is a must-try. It’s bound to become the most-loved dish for your home kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Creating the ultimate crockpot chicken and gravy starts with the right ingredients. This slow cooker chicken cream of chicken soup recipe needs a mix of simple yet flavorful parts. These parts turn ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering meal.
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:
- 2 to 2½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1.67 ounces) chicken gravy mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- Water or chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese (⅓ less fat)
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
When preparing your crockpot chicken and gravy, quality ingredients make all the difference. The mix of chicken gravy mix and cream of chicken soup makes a rich, creamy base. This base infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
“The secret to great slow cooker meals is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and letting time do the cooking.”
Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider using homemade cream of chicken soup or substituting chicken broth instead of water. Your taste buds will thank you!
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making a tasty chicken crock pot recipe is easy. This simple guide turns basic ingredients into a dish your family will enjoy. Let’s go through the steps together.
Seasoning the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts. Mix garlic powder and black pepper on both sides. Remember, the gravy mix will add salt, so use it sparingly.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2-2.5 lbs)
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Add freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lightly season with salt (optional)
Creating the Gravy Base
The key to a creamy chicken crock pot recipe is the gravy base. In your slow cooker, mix the essential ingredients. This will make your chicken tender and flavorful.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken gravy mix packets | 2 packets (0.87 oz each) |
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Water | 2 cups |
Slow Cooking Process
The slow cooking process is where the magic happens. Place your seasoned chicken in the gravy mix. Let your slow cooker do the rest.
- Low temperature setting: Cook for 6-8 hours
- High temperature setting: Cook for 3-4 hours
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F
“Patience is key in creating a tender, mouthwatering chicken dish that falls apart with each bite.”
Pro tip: For a creamier texture, add ½ cup of sour cream in the last 30 minutes. This will make your chicken crock pot recipe even better!
Tips for Making the Creamiest Gravy
Making the perfect crockpot chicken and gravy needs some special tricks. The secret to a smooth, creamy gravy is in the preparation and a few expert tips.
Here are some expert tips for the ultimate creamy gravy:
- Stir in sour cream during the final moments of cooking
- Use a cornstarch slurry to adjust thickness
- Whisk continuously to prevent lumps
- Season gradually for maximum flavor
“The secret to great gravy is patience and careful seasoning.” – Home Cooking Experts
Temperature is key when making your crockpot chicken and gravy. Cooking on high for 3-4 hours works, but slow cooking on low for 4-5 hours makes it more tender.
| Gravy Thickening Method | Recommended Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornstarch Slurry | 1/2 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | ⅓ cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 5 tablespoons |
For the creamiest texture, add your thickening agent slowly. A cornstarch slurry can fix too-thin gravy, and simmering can thicken it too much. Always taste and adjust the seasonings as you go.
Pro tip: Always have a whisk ready and stir often. This will help avoid lumps in your delicious slow cooker chicken cream of chicken soup gravy!
Cooking Times and Temperature Guidelines
Mastering the perfect crockpot chicken recipe means knowing the right cooking times and temperatures. Your slow cooker can turn chicken into a tender, flavorful meal with the right approach.
When you’re cooking your chicken crockpot recipe, you have two main options for delicious results:
Low Temperature Cooking
The low and slow method is the best for a crockpot chicken recipe. Here are the key details:
- Cooking duration: 6-7 hours
- Ideal for tender, fall-apart chicken
- Allows flavors to develop fully
- Recommended for most home cooks
High Temperature Options
If you’re short on time, your chicken crockpot recipe can be cooked at high heat:
- Cooking duration: 4-5 hours
- Faster meal preparation
- Slightly less tender compared to low-heat method
- Suitable for busy weeknights
Ensuring Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked
The most important thing in any chicken recipe is safety. Always make use of a thermometer for meat to determine the temperature inside. Your chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
“Cooking chicken to the right temperature isn’t just about taste—it’s about keeping your family safe.” – Culinary Safety Experts
Pro tip: Thirty minutes before serving, shred the chicken and mix it with the gravy for maximum flavor absorption.
Delicious Serving Suggestions and Sides
Your crockpot chicken and gravy is super versatile. It offers many tasty serving options that make your meal unforgettable. The creamy sauce goes well with both classic and creative sides.
- Fluffy white rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttery egg noodles
- Thick slice of warm toast
Looking for something new? Try these unique serving ideas:
- Chicken and Waffles Style: Serve over crispy waffles for a unique culinary experience
- Honey-glazed sweet potatoes as a complementary side
- Homemade butter swim biscuits
“The beauty of crockpot chicken and gravy is its adaptability to different serving styles!” – Home Cooking Enthusiast
It’s important to balance the dish nutritionally. Pair it with light veggie sides like roasted broccoli or steamed green beans. A crisp garden salad also works well. These add freshness and nutrients to your meal.
Want a lower-carb option? Serve it over mashed cauliflower. It has about 25 calories per half-cup, unlike mashed potatoes. Your family will love the tasty, healthy twist on a classic dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Keeping your crockpot chicken and gravy tasty means following the right storage and reheating steps. Whether you’re looking to enjoy leftovers soon or save them for later, these tips will help. They ensure your dish stays delicious and fresh.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your crockpot chicken recipe in the fridge for up to 4 days. Here are some important storage tips:
- Put leftovers in an airtight container right after they cool
- Keep it at or below 40°F to stop bacteria from growing
- Use clean, sealed containers to keep it fresh
Freezing Methods
Freezing your crockpot chicken and gravy is a great way to keep it longer. Here’s how to freeze it right:
- Freeze it within 2 hours of cooking
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags
- Remove the most air you can, to keep from freezing burn
- Freeze it for up to 3 months
“Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious crockpot chicken recipe later!” – Home Cooking Experts
Reheating Tips
When reheating your crockpot chicken and gravy, warm it gently. This keeps it moist and flavorful:
- Microwave: 1-2 minutes on medium power
- Add a splash of chicken broth to keep the gravy right
- Stir halfway through reheating
- Make sure it heats up to 165°F for safety
Pro tip: When reheating frozen chicken, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best taste.
Recipe Variations and Ingredient Substitutions
Make your crockpot chicken recipe your own with creative twists. These changes can make the dish exciting and delicious. They’re great for trying new flavors or meeting dietary needs.
Creamy Texture Alternatives
Don’t like sour cream? No worries! You can use other ingredients for a creamy gravy:
- Greek yogurt (thick, plain variety)
- Softened cream cheese
- Heavy cream (note: slightly thinner consistency)
Dietary Modification Options
Adjust your crockpot chicken recipe for different diets:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free gravy mix
- Low-sodium: Choose low-sodium chicken stock
- Dairy-free: Try coconut milk or almond milk cream
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Dijon mustard | Tangy kick |
| Cayenne pepper | Spicy heat |
| Hot sauce | Intense warmth |
Vegetable and Protein Additions
Add vegetables and protein to make your chicken crockpot recipe a full meal:
- Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers
- Frozen mixed vegetables
- Bone broth for extra protein
“Cooking is about experimentation and making a recipe your own!” – Home Chef Wisdom
The best thing about crockpot chicken recipes is their flexibility. Feel free to get creative and make each meal special!
Conclusion
This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe shows that tasty meals can be simple. It only needs a few ingredients and little prep time. This makes a hearty dinner that everyone will enjoy.
It’s great for any family size. You can cook for two or prep meals for the week. The recipe gets a 4.98 rating and can be frozen for up to 3 months. It’s a real kitchen winner.
Slow cooking is easy with this recipe. Your 6-quart crockpot will make a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. You can cook it low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Either way, it’s delicious.
Try this crockpot chicken and gravy recipe. It’s easy to make, tastes amazing, and is quick to clean up. It will be a favorite in your kitchen. Your taste buds and busy schedule will appreciate it!
FAQ
How long can I store leftover crockpot chicken and gravy?
Leftover crockpot chicken and gravy can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container. For freezing, it’s good for up to 3 months. But, the gravy might change a bit when thawed.
Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Using frozen chicken is okay, but thawing it first is safer and better for cooking. Make sure the chicken gets to 165°F. Also, add more time for cooking since it’s frozen.
What are some good side dishes to serve with crockpot chicken and gravy?
Great sides include mashed potatoes, rice, and roasted veggies. Honey-glazed sweet potatoes and steamed green beans are also good. Homemade biscuits or waffles with chicken and gravy are unique options.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s easy to make gluten-free. Use gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup. Make sure all seasonings are gluten-free. Cornstarch is a good flour substitute for the gravy.
What should I do to stop the chicken from getting too dry?
To keep chicken moist, cook on low for 6-8 hours. Use thighs instead of breasts. Don’t overcook. Adding sour cream or broth at the end helps too.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Add veggies like carrots, celery, onions, or potatoes to the crockpot. Cut them the same size for even cooking. Add them at the start of cooking.
What if my gravy is too thin?
For thin gravy, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water. Stir this into the gravy in the last 30 minutes of cooking. It will thicken nicely.
Do I have to choose another type of cream soup?
Yes, you can swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom, celery, or make your own. Each will change the flavor a bit.