Introduction:
If you’re looking for a simple, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is exactly what you need! It’s one of our family’s go-to favorites, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of creamy chicken soup, savory gravy mix, and tender chicken cooked to perfection in the crockpot makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
The best part? This recipe uses just a few pantry ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve it over rice or egg noodles for a filling and flavorful dinner.
Let’s dive into how to make this easy crockpot chicken and gravy!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipe:
- Minimal Ingredients: All you need are 4 ingredients to create a rich, flavorful dish.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Just add the ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer rice or noodles, this dish can be paired with whatever you like!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s easy to make in bulk and works great for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
This recipe is simple and quick. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:
- 3-4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Chicken breasts are the star of this recipe, and they cook up perfectly in the crockpot.
- 3 Cans of Cream of Chicken Soup – This will form the base of your gravy and add a rich, creamy texture.
- 2 Cups of Water – To thin out the soup and help create a delicious gravy.
- 1 Packet of Chicken Gravy Mix – Adds the savory, well-seasoned flavor that elevates this dish.
- Optional: Serve Over Rice or Egg Noodles – For a complete meal that’s both hearty and comforting.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- Salt and Pepper to taste.
- Garlic Powder or Onion Powder for added depth of flavor.
- Chopped Vegetables such as carrots or onions can be added for extra nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Now let’s walk through the simple steps to make this easy crockpot chicken and gravy recipe!
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups of water
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix
Stir the mixture well until the gravy mix is fully dissolved into the soup and water. This will form a creamy gravy base that will cook the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
Step 2: Add Chicken to the Crockpot
Place the uncooked chicken breasts into the bottom of your crockpot. Arrange them so that they are evenly distributed and fully covered by the gravy mixture.
Step 3: Pour the Gravy Mixture Over the Chicken
Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure that the chicken is well-coated with the gravy.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 2 1/2 hours. The low cooking temperature allows the chicken to become tender and soak up the flavors of the gravy.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Be sure to retain the gravy in the crockpot for mixing later.
Step 6: Return Chicken to the Gravy
Once the chicken is shredded, return it to the crockpot and stir it into the gravy mixture. This helps the chicken absorb even more flavor from the gravy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
After stirring the chicken back into the gravy, let everything cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve this easy crockpot chicken and gravy dish over cooked rice or egg noodles for the perfect comforting meal. Top it off with a sprinkle of parsley or a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
- Use Frozen Chicken: If you forgot to thaw your chicken breasts, you can still use frozen chicken in this recipe! Just cook the chicken for about 3-4 hours on low.
- Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Add Veggies: For a more well-rounded meal, try adding some frozen peas, carrots, or chopped potatoes directly into the crockpot with the chicken.
- Make It Spicy: If your family enjoys a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the gravy.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers:
- Storing: Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and gravy for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If the gravy has thickened too much, you can add a little bit of water or broth to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe! They tend to be a bit juicier and will still shred easily.
Can I make this recipe without cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use low-fat or organic cream of chicken soup. Or, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a kick, try mixing in some sriracha or chili flakes to the gravy for a spicy twist!
Conclusion:
This easy crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a simple, flavorful meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a hearty dinner ready to serve in no time. Whether over rice or noodles, this recipe is guaranteed to please!
Try it out today and let us know how it turns out! Share your pictures and experiences with us, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for future reference.
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This detailed post structure provides a thorough, user-friendly guide that Google will recognize as valuable content. With proper SEO implementation, it will improve your chances of ranking higher in search results. Happy cooking and best of luck with your post!