Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings the heartwarming flavors of home-cooked meals to your table with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a creamy, savory gravy transforms an ordinary day into something special. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who appreciates a warm, delicious meal waiting when they return home. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of cooking make it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
There are several reasons why this Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe has earned such a special place in our hearts. First, it emphasizes convenience thanks to the slow-cooking method; you can set it up in the morning and let it do its thing throughout the day. The rich flavors mingle and intensify as it cooks, creating an aromatic experience that makes your home feel warm and inviting. Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit various taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you are serving a busy family or entertaining guests, this dish is both satisfying and versatile, making it a beloved choice for any occasion.
Ingredients about Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
To create the delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken: 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Gravy mix: 1 packet (approximately 1 ounce)
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
- Sour cream: 1 cup
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water: 1 cup (optional, if you prefer a thinner gravy)
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this savory dish, combining to form a delightful sauce that enhances the chicken and adds depth to the overall flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Directions
Making Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is straightforward and requires very little hands-on time. Follow these simple steps to create your dish:
- Prepare the chicken: Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your crock pot. Ensure the pieces are laid out evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Mix the sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Use a whisk or fork to mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Add the mixture over the chicken: Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, making sure to cover each piece evenly. This will keep the chicken moist during cooking while ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper based on your preference. Feel free to be generous with seasonings, as they elevate the flavors in the dish.
- Cover and cook: Place the lid securely on the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors from the gravy.
- Check for doneness: After the cooking time has elapsed, check the chicken for doneness. It should shred easily with a fork and have reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
- Serve: Once cooked, you can serve the chicken and gravy over your choice of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The creamy gravy will enhance the taste of whichever base you choose.
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
Serving Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is all about making it feel special while keeping it easy. Once you’ve finished cooking, it’s time to set the table and create a comforting dining experience.
- Over rice or potatoes: This dish pairs brilliantly with fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes. The gravy will soak into these bases, providing a rich, flavorful bite.
- Garnish: You can elevate the presentation by adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of the chicken just before serving. This tiny touch brings color and freshness to your dish.
- Sides to accompany: To round out your meal, consider serving a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots. A simple side salad can also add a fresh contrast to the rich chicken and gravy.
- Make it a feast: If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you’ll have enough for everyone, plus leftovers that can be enjoyed the next day.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
To ensure that your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy turns out perfect every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a slightly richer flavor. They tend to remain juicier than chicken breasts during the slow cooking process.
- Adjusting thickness: If you desire a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of liquid added. You can also leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate, enhancing the thickening process.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or herbs. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of hot sauce can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
- Cook efficiently: To save time, you can sauté vegetables like onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Do not rush the process: Slow cooking is meant to be just that—slow. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and can lengthen the cooking time.
How to Store Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
If you find yourself with leftovers after a delightful dinner, don’t worry! Storing Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is simple and easy.
- Cool down: Allow your dish to cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation and maintaining the quality of the gravy.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer the chicken and gravy into airtight containers. If you have lots of leftovers, consider using smaller containers for easy reheating later.
- Refrigerate or freeze: Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it out for single servings for easy defrosting.
- Reheat effectively: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the microwave or a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen the gravy during reheating.
Variation of Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
While the classic Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is undeniably delicious, there are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences:
- Vegetable add-ins: Feel free to throw in some diced potatoes, carrots, or celery in the crock pot for added nutrition. They will cook down along with the chicken and absorb all the savory flavors.
- Herb variations: Instead of plain gravy mix, try using herb-flavored gravy mixes or adding dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different taste profile.
- Cheesy twist: For cheese lovers, add a cup of shredded cheese shortly before serving. It will melt into the gravy, adding a creamy richness that takes the dish to another level.
- Spicy version: If you’re a fan of spicy dishes, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the sauce. This will provide a kick that can transform the flavor.
- Healthy alternatives: Consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version. You can also substitute low-sodium gravy mix and cream soup for a healthier twist without sacrificing taste.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken for Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken without thawing it first. Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so depending on your crock pot’s temperature setting.
2. How can I thicken the gravy?
To thicken the gravy, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking or mix in a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water).
3. Can I use other meats in this recipe?
While this recipe is intended for chicken, you can experiment with turkey or even meat substitutes for a variation.
4. Is it safe to leave the crockpot on while I’m out?
Yes, as long as you follow the recommended cooking time and use the low setting, it is safe to leave your crock pot unattended while it cooks.
5. How can I make this a one-pot meal?
Consider adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas directly into the crock pot. This way, you’ll have all your main components in one delicious dish, reducing clean-up time!
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4-6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Choose thighs for a richer flavor.
- 1 packet gravy mix (approximately 1 ounce)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1 cup water (optional) Add for a thinner gravy.
- to taste salt and pepper Use generously for enhanced flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your crock pot, ensuring even layout for cooking.
- In a medium bowl, mix the gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, covering each piece evenly.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Check chicken for doneness after cooking; it should shred easily and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving
- Serve chicken and gravy over rice or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with parsley or chives before serving.
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