Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Tasty Comfort Dish

Comfort food lovers, get ready for a warm hug in a bowl! In this article, I'll share my favorite recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy, tasty recipe that promises to make your dinner hassle-free and satisfying!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

- Onion soup mix packet

Seasonings and Garnishes

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- Salt and pepper

- Fresh parsley, chopped

Serving Suggestions

- Cooked rice

- Mashed potatoes

The main ingredients for my Crockpot Chicken and Gravy are simple yet delicious. You start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook up tender and juicy. Next, you will need one cup of chicken broth. This adds depth to the gravy. A can of cream of mushroom soup gives the dish a rich flavor. You can also use cream of chicken soup if you prefer. Don't forget the onion soup mix packet. This boosts the taste and makes it easy.

For seasonings, I use garlic powder and onion powder. Just one teaspoon of each will do. You can adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch at the end. It looks pretty and tastes fresh.

To serve, I like to place the chicken and gravy over cooked rice or mashed potatoes. Both options soak up the gravy well. You will find these ingredients come together to create a warm and comforting meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet on medium-high heat. This will help give the chicken a nice sear. While the oil heats, take your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are lightly browned. This step adds flavor. If you want to save time, you can skip searing, but I recommend it for the best taste.

Mixing the Gravy

In your crockpot, combine 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 1 packet of onion soup mix. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and well-mixed. The soup adds richness, while the broth helps create a tasty gravy.

To ensure a nice consistency, make sure the mixture is not too thick. If it seems thick, add a splash more chicken broth. This keeps the gravy flowing nicely.

Cooking in the Crockpot

Now, nestle the seared chicken breasts into the gravy mixture in the crockpot. Make sure they are fully coated in the sauce. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken; it should be white and no longer pink. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the crockpot. This allows the chicken to soak up even more gravy.

Serve this delicious dish over cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To make your crockpot chicken and gravy even tastier, you can add some extra seasonings. Here are a few ideas:

- Dried herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a burst of flavor.

- Spices: A dash of paprika or cayenne can add warmth.

- Stock: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a different taste.

You can also stir in some veggies. Carrots, celery, or peas work great here. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. This not only boosts flavor but adds nutrition, too!

Chicken Cooking Tips

To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. If you cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, the chicken should stay moist. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices settle, making every bite tender and juicy.

Thickening the Gravy

You might want a thicker gravy. Here are some tips:

- Shredding: When the chicken is done, shred it in the crockpot. This makes the gravy thicker.

- Cornstarch: If you need more thickness, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mix into the gravy. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens up.

These simple tricks will help you create a delicious and comforting dish that everyone will love!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup. This keeps the dish tasty and cozy. If you prefer, you can also use homemade chicken soup. It adds a fresh touch.

Different chicken cuts work well too. Thighs bring rich flavor, while drumsticks are juicy and fun to eat. Just make sure the cooking time stays the same.

Spicy Version

Want to spice things up? Add your favorite hot sauce to the gravy. A teaspoon or two can add a nice kick. You can also mix in cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.

For a spicy side, try jalapeño cornbread or spicy roasted potatoes. They pair well with the rich gravy.

Adding Vegetables

Stir in veggies for a colorful twist. Carrots, peas, and green beans are great choices. They add nutrients and texture to the dish.

Adjust the cooking time if you add veggies. If you add them in the last hour of cooking, they stay crisp and bright. If you cook them for the full time, they become very soft.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let the chicken and gravy cool down first. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. The chicken can last in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze chicken and gravy for later use. To do this, let the dish cool completely. Then, pour the chicken and gravy into a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best quality.

Reheating Methods

For reheating, there are two great options: the microwave or the stove. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even warming. If you choose the stove, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir frequently to avoid hot spots. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can dry out the chicken. Enjoy your comforting meal!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just keep a few tips in mind. First, ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check. Cooking time will also change. If using frozen chicken, cook on high for about 5-6 hours or low for 7-8 hours. This will help ensure the chicken is tender and juicy. You can skip searing it first, but searing adds nice flavor.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing the chicken is not necessary, but it has benefits. Searing adds color and depth to the dish. It creates a richer flavor in the gravy. However, if you want a faster meal, you can skip this step. The chicken will still cook well in the crockpot. Just know that the taste may be milder without searing.

What can I pair with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

You have great options for side dishes. Here are my top picks:

- Cooked rice

- Mashed potatoes

- Steamed vegetables

- Biscuits

These sides soak up the delicious gravy. You can also add a simple salad for freshness. Each option makes your meal hearty and satisfying.

In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. We covered the main ingredients, including chicken breasts and mushroom soup, along with seasoning tips. I highlighted effective step-by-step instructions for searing, mixing gravy, and slow cooking the chicken. Don’t forget the helpful tips for enhancing flavor and avoiding dry meat. Finally, I discussed storage options and answered common questions. Now, you can create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. Happy cooking!