There’s something comforting about a warm, creamy dish that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is one of those meals that bring both satisfaction and ease. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that is perfect for any day of the week. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, go about your day, and return to a delicious, home-cooked meal that practically cooks itself.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy individuals and families alike. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, so there’s a good chance you won’t need to make an extra trip to the grocery store. Plus, the creamy texture and savory flavor of the gravy combined with tender chicken is a hit with both adults and kids. This meal is versatile, too—you can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even biscuits, allowing for a bit of variety in your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or making a family meal, this dish will surely impress.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
You only need a handful of ingredients to make this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Directions
Making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker. There’s no need to worry about prepping the chicken in any special way; just make sure they are arranged evenly at the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth. This mixture will become the flavorful sauce that enhances the chicken. Stir until well combined, ensuring that the ranch dressing mix is fully incorporated.
- Now it’s time to pour the creamy mixture over the chicken inside the slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is well covered by the sauce. This will lock in moisture and flavor during the cooking process.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Keep in mind that the ranch dressing mix already contains some seasoning, so you might want to taste the mixture before adding too much.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. For best results, cook on low for about 6-7 hours; if you’re pressed for time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will also yield great results. The chicken will become tender and fully cooked.
- When the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the gravy. This will allow the chicken to soak up more of that delicious sauce.
- After shredding, it’s time to serve. Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over your choice of sides, such as fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or warm biscuits. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is almost as delightful as making it. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides to suit your taste and occasion. The creaminess of the gravy pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, creating a comforting, home-cooked meal.
Alternatively, if you prefer grains, serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of rice. Jasmine or basmati rice can add an aromatic element to the dish. For a hearty touch, consider serving it alongside freshly baked biscuits; the flaky texture complements the gravy perfectly.
To elevate the dining experience, you might also want to serve steamed vegetables, like green beans or carrots, on the side. This adds a nutritious element to your plate. When serving, drizzle a bit of extra gravy over everything for that extra touch of indulgence.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
To ensure your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy turns out perfect each time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Quality Chicken: Using high-quality, fresh chicken breasts will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Look for chicken that is plump and free of any abnormalities.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: While browning the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker isn’t necessary, searing it can lock in more flavor. If you have a few extra minutes, consider doing this in a skillet.
- Adjust the Gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking. If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add a bit more chicken broth.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You might find that you need a bit more salt or a dash of pepper to perfect it.
- Make it a Meal: If you’re hoping for a one-pot meal, feel free to add chopped vegetables like carrots or potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker along with the chicken. They will cook down beautifully in the gravy.
How to Store Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
If you have leftovers after your meal, storing them properly is essential for maintaining flavor and freshness. Allow the chicken and gravy to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you’re looking to enjoy it later, consider freezing the leftovers. Place the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Variation of Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
While the base recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to cater to your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Herb Infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, while the chicken cooks. This will infuse your dish with an aromatic flavor that elevates the entire meal.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the gravy mixture. This small addition can transform the flavor profile beautifully.
- Creamy Mushroom Addition: Enhance the creamy texture by adding sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken. The mushrooms will absorb the gravy, adding both flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Medley: For a healthier option, mix in diced onions, bell peppers, or even zucchini. These vegetables will add additional nutrients while cooking down in the gravy.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a savory dish made with chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy sauce consisting of cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth, resulting in a flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?
Depending on your time constraints, you can cook Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy on low for approximately 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?
Absolutely! After cooling, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, making for convenient meal prep.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Certainly! You can add fresh herbs, a kick of spice, mushrooms, or even a mix of vegetables to enhance the flavors and textures of your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy.
By following this guide, you will not only prepare a delightful meal but also impress everyone around you with your culinary skills. Enjoy every bite of your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy!
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use high-quality, fresh chicken for the best flavor
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix 1 oz packet
- 1 cup chicken broth Add more for thinner gravy if desired
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on preference
- optional chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker, arranged evenly at the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well covered.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the gravy using two forks.
Serving
- Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
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