Name: Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 245 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (10.5-oz) Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup; 2 envelopes (0.87-oz) chicken gravy mix; 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional); hot steamed rice

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Are you ready to discover a recipe that will change your weeknight dinners forever? Meet Crockpot Chicken & Gravy! This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also transforms into a hearty meal that your whole family will love. With just three ingredients, you can set it and forget it while you tackle your evening tasks.

Why is Crockpot Chicken & Gravy a Weeknight Winner?

Simple and Quick Prep: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule. Simply place the chicken, cream of chicken soup, and gravy mix in your crockpot, and you’re good to go!
Delicious Versatility: Serve it over hot steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even in a sandwich. The savory gravy complements so many sides, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week.
Family-Friendly Meal: Kids love it! The creamy texture and rich flavor appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, this dish is a fantastic way to sneak in some protein while keeping things easy and satisfying.
Minimal Cleanup: One pot, one meal! Using the crockpot means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that after a long day?

For even more – and to give it a personal touch – you can check out my guide to using a slow cooker for tips on perfecting your meals. Get ready to make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy a staple in your weeknight rotation!

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Essential ingredients for a delicious dish

Creating the perfect Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is incredibly simple with just a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of the dish! Opt for high-quality chicken for the best results.
1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: This adds richness and creaminess, helping to create a savory gravy that elevates the chicken.
2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix: Look for your favorite brand—this is key to boosting flavor effortlessly.
½ cup of water or chicken broth (optional): If you prefer a thinner gravy, adding this will help create that perfect consistency.
Hot steamed rice for serving: Nothing pairs better with chicken and gravy than fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

With these ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone! For more insight on how to enhance your dishes, check out this guide on flavor boosters. Happy cooking!

Preparing Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Making Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is not only simple, but it’s also a comforting meal that your whole family will love. Just a few steps stand between you and a delicious dinner ready to serve over fluffy rice. Let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

First things first—let’s assemble those ingredients. This dish requires minimal effort and just a few staple items:

3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (10.5-oz) can of unsalted cream of chicken soup (you can also try a homemade version for added flavor!)
2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix
½ cup of water or chicken broth (optional, depending on how rich you like your gravy)
Hot steamed rice for serving

Feel free to check out some recipes for homemade chicken soup or gravy mix if you’re feeling adventurous!

Prepare the Chicken

Now that you have everything, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Simply place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. You can season them with a pinch of salt and pepper if you like, but it’s completely optional. The gravy will be flavorful enough to support the chicken as it cooks.

Mix the Creamy Gravy Components

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and the chicken gravy mix. If you want a slightly thinner gravy, you can add in that half cup of water or chicken broth we talked about earlier. This mixture is what makes the meal so rich and comforting, so don’t skip this step! For even more flavor, consider adding herbs or seasoning that you enjoy.

Pour It All Into the Crockpot

Once you’ve mixed the gravy, pour it over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well-coated so it can soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking. This is truly where the magic begins!

Set the Slow Cooker and Forget It!

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 4–6 hours. Seriously, that's it! Go about your day, and let the slow cooker do the work. When you come back, the house will smell amazing, and you'll have tender, juicy chicken ready to be shredded and served over that hot steamed rice.

In summary, preparing Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is an effortless way to get a hearty meal on the table without spending all day cooking. So go ahead and try this recipe; I promise you won’t regret it!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Creamy Mushroom Chicken

For a rich and savory twist, try Creamy Mushroom Chicken. Just add a can of cream of mushroom soup along with your typical gravy mix. This variation brings in an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. And if you're a fan of fresh herbs, a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary elevates the dish even more.

Herb-Infused Chicken & Gravy

Embrace a bouquet of flavors with Herb-Infused Chicken & Gravy. Mix in a variety of dried herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley to your crockpot. The careful infusion of these herbs during the slow cooking process transforms your classic Crockpot Chicken & Gravy into a fragrant, homestyle meal. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple tweaks can create a completely different experience at dinner time!

Curious to explore more? Check out helpful resources like this article on cooking with herbs for further inspiration!

Cooking tips and notes for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Choosing the right chicken cuts

For a delicious Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they cook evenly and remain tender. Alternatively, chicken thighs can add richer flavor and moisture. Don't hesitate to mix cuts if you want to experiment with texture!

Ensuring optimal flavor and texture

To enhance flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or paprika before adding the soup and gravy mix. If you're looking for a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of liquid you use. Remember, the secret to a yummy dish lies in allowing the Crockpot Chicken & Gravy to cook low and slow—don’t rush it!

For tips on cooking chicken perfectly, check out this resource from the American Institute for Cancer Research. Enjoy your cooking!

Serving suggestions for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Perfect side dishes

When serving Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, you can't go wrong with classic accompaniments. A steaming bowl of hot steamed rice is the perfect base to soak up that rich, flavorful gravy. If you're in the mood for something a bit heartier, try mashed potatoes or fluffy buttermilk biscuits to complement the dish.

Pairing with fresh vegetables

Brighten up your meal with some fresh vegetables. Oven-roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple garden salad add color and nutrition to your plate. For a comforting twist, you might even consider adding caramelized carrots or Brussels sprouts for an extra layer of flavor that balances the savory chicken and gravy beautifully.

Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Preparation Time

You'll love how quick it is to prepare this dish! All it takes is just 5 minutes to get everything prepped and ready for the crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hassle-free meal!

Cooking Time

Let the magic unfold as your meal simmers in the crockpot for about 4 to 6 hours on low heat. This slow cooking not only tenderizes the chicken but also melds the flavors beautifully.

Total Time

In total, allow around 4 hours and 5 minutes for this delightful Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. Just set it and forget it – you'll be rewarded with a warm and comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy!

For more easy recipes like this, check out Slow Cooker Meals.

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

When it comes to enjoying a comforting meal, Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is not only delicious but also provides some valuable nutrients. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories

Approximately 350 calories per serving, making it a satisfying yet manageable choice for weeknight dinners.

Protein

This dish packs a punch with 30 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken. It's a great way to increase your daily intake and support muscle health.

Sodium

With around 800 mg of sodium per serving, it's best enjoyed occasionally. You can always opt for low-sodium versions of the gravy mix and soup to keep it on the healthier side.

For more insights into healthy eating, check out resources like the USDA National Nutrient Database.

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using frozen chicken is totally fine for your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. Just add an extra hour to your cooking time to ensure it's safe and fully cooked. The slow cooker does a great job of thawing and cooking the chicken evenly.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the Crockpot Chicken & Gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove when you're ready to enjoy it again!

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! If you're looking to add some heat to your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use a spicy gravy mix for an extra kick. Customize it to suit your taste!

For more tips and tricks, take a look at The Kitchn for more slow cooking inspiration!

Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate weeknight meal that combines simplicity with comfort. With just three ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready with minimal effort. Perfectly paired with hot steamed rice and green beans, this dish is bound to please the entire family. Enjoy!