Imagine coming home to a warm, comforting meal that’s been cooking all day in your slow cooker. Crockpot chicken and gravy is a popular comfort food dish. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients and little effort. This recipe is great for busy days when you want a tasty meal without spending hours cooking.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!To make this dish, you only need to spend 5-10 minutes preparing. Then, let your slow cooker do the rest. The total time for this recipe is about 4 hours and 10 minutes, including prep time. It serves 6 people, making it perfect for family or group meals. Enjoy a delicious crockpot chicken and gravy meal with minimal effort, ideal for any occasion.
Key Takeaways
- You can make a delicious crockpot chicken and gravy meal with minimal ingredients and effort.
- This easy chicken and gravy recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- A slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe can be ready in 4 hours and 10 minutes, including prep time.
- This recipe serves 6 people, making it suitable for family or group meals.
- You can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal with a slow cooker, perfect for any occasion.
- Crockpot chicken and gravy is a popular comfort food dish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.
- This recipe is perfect for those who want to cook a tasty meal with minimal effort and time.
Why Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is Your Perfect Comfort Food
Comfort food is all about warmth and satisfaction. Crockpot chicken and gravy is a top choice for many. It’s easy to make, tastes great, and can be tailored to your liking.
This dish brings back memories of home-cooked meals from our childhood. Its rich, savory flavors remind us of special times. It’s perfect for both big occasions and everyday meals.
- Easy to prepare: simply add your ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook
- Customizable: add your favorite vegetables, spices, and seasonings to make the dish your own
- Comforting: the rich, savory flavors of the dish are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly
Looking for a comforting meal or something simple and tasty? Crockpot chicken and gravy is a great pick. Its rich flavors and easy prep make it a favorite in many homes.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 3 boneless, skinless |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
To make a delicious homemade chicken and gravy, you need some key ingredients. The right chicken cuts and seasonings are essential. You can use 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, whichever you like best.
For the gravy, you’ll need 10 oz of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and 1 tbsp of flour. Adding 1 cup of milk makes it creamy. Season with 2 tsp of pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and 1 tsp of oregano and thyme.
Best Cuts of Chicken to Use
The best chicken for crockpot chicken and gravy are boneless skinless breasts or thighs. Choose 2 lbs of either, based on your family’s taste.
Gravy Components and Seasonings
The gravy needs 10 oz of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and 1 tbsp of flour. Season with 2 tsp of pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and 1 tsp of oregano and thyme.
Optional Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor
For extra flavor, add diced onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also use cream or half-and-half for a richer taste.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 2 lbs |
| Cream of chicken soup | 10 oz |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Flour | 1 tbsp |
| Milk | 1 cup |
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make delicious slow cooker chicken and gravy, you’ll need the right kitchen equipment. A slow cooker is key for cooking the chicken and gravy perfectly. Choose a 6-7 quart crock pot for this recipe.
A slow cooker is a must for easy chicken and gravy. It allows for hands-off cooking and ensures the chicken is cooked well. You’ll also need basic utensils like a spoon, whisk, and measuring cups. A strainer or slotted spoon is handy for removing chicken and vegetables.
Other useful equipment includes a cutting board, knife, and bowls for preparing ingredients. But, you can manage with minimal equipment. The most important thing is a reliable slow cooker.
Investing in the right kitchen equipment makes cooking slow cooker chicken and gravy easy. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or special occasions. With the right tools, you’ll cook it perfectly every time.
Preparing Your Ingredients Like a Pro
To make the best crockpot chicken and gravy, you need to prepare your ingredients well. This means getting the chicken ready, making the gravy base, and mixing the seasonings.
Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water and drying it with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture. It helps the chicken brown better instead of steaming.
Chicken Preparation Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for the best results.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Heat a little oil in a pan and sear the chicken on both sides to create a crispy crust.
Making the Perfect Gravy Base
To make the perfect gravy base, mix condensed cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, and water. Put these in the crockpot and stir until it’s smooth and creamy.
Measuring and Mixing Seasonings
Measuring and mixing the seasonings is key to a delicious chicken and gravy dish. Use garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. They add depth and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 10-ounce can |
| Dry chicken gravy mix | 2 packets (0.87-ounce each) |
| Water | 1.5 cups |
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you’ll make a delicious crockpot chicken and gravy. It’s perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Amazing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
To make delicious slow cooker chicken and gravy, follow a few simple steps. This recipe is great for a weeknight dinner or a special event.
Start by getting your ingredients ready. You’ll need 1½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 10.5 oz. can of cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of water or chicken broth. You can also add ½ cup of fat-free sour cream or nonfat plain Greek yogurt for extra flavor and texture.
Then, put the chicken, cream of chicken soup, and water or broth in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-5 hours. Don’t forget to add some seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Once the chicken is done, serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttermilk biscuits. This slow cooker chicken and gravy is a hearty, comforting meal for any occasion.
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional info and cooking times for this recipe:
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 252 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 119mg |
| Cooking Time | 4-6 hours on low or 3-5 hours on high |
This easy chicken and gravy recipe is perfect for a slow cooker meal. Serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious, comforting dinner.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cooking crockpot chicken and gravy right is key. You can use low or high heat, depending on your day. For best results, cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
Checking the chicken’s internal temperature is important. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and flavor. Use a meat thermometer to get it just right.
High vs Low Temperature Options
Low heat is great for busy days, as it cooks longer. High heat is quicker but needs more watching to avoid overcooking.
How to Know When It’s Done
Check the chicken’s temperature and the gravy’s consistency. The gravy should be thick, and the chicken tender. This means it’s ready to enjoy.
Here’s a quick guide for cooking times and temperatures:
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Low Heat | 4 hours | 165°F (74°C) |
| High Heat | 2 hours | 165°F (74°C) |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making homemade chicken and gravy, you might run into some common problems. These can affect how good your dish tastes. We’ve got some tips and tricks to help you fix these issues and make your creamy chicken and gravy perfect every time.
One common issue is thin or lumpy gravy. To solve this, whisk in a bit more flour or cornstarch to thicken it. Or, you can simmer the gravy for a few more minutes to make it thicker and more flavorful.
Fixing Thin or Lumpy Gravy
- Whisk in a little more flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy
- Simmer the gravy for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors
- Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps
Preventing Dry Chicken
To avoid dry chicken, cook it to the right temperature. Use a food thermometer to check if it’s at least 165°F (74°C). Also, don’t overcook the chicken, as it can dry out.
Adjusting Seasonings
Getting the flavor of your homemade chicken and gravy just right is key. Try adding a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste. It’s better to add a little at a time and adjust as needed, as you can’t take it away once it’s added.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Thin or lumpy gravy | Whisk in more flour or cornstarch, simmer to reduce liquid |
| Dry chicken | Cook to right internal temperature, don’t overcook |
| Incorrect seasonings | Adjust seasonings to taste, start with small amounts |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
There are many ways to serve your comfort food chicken and gravy. You can pair it with different side dishes to enhance the taste. Popular choices include mashed potatoes, rice, and veggies. The goal is to balance the rich chicken and gravy with the sides.
Mashed potatoes are a great match for this dish. Their creamy texture complements the savory chicken and gravy well. Adding steamed veggies like green beans or carrots adds color and nutrients.
Serving the chicken and gravy over rice is another good option. It helps soak up the flavorful gravy. You can also toss in sautéed veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or broccoli
- Garlic bread, perfect for dipping in the gravy
- A simple green salad, to cut the richness of the dish
Choosing any of these side dishes will make your comfort food chicken and gravy a hit. The mix of tender chicken, rich gravy, and tasty sides creates a satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating your slow cooker chicken and gravy right is key. It keeps your dish safe and tasty. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, freeze them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating can be done in several ways: oven, microwave, or air fryer. Make sure the chicken heats up to at least 165°F (74°C) for safety. Here’s how to reheat your easy chicken and gravy recipe:
- Oven reheating: Ideal for large, bone-in pieces of chicken; takes longer compared to other methods.
- Microwave reheating: Generally results in chicken becoming rubbery or dry; results can vary based on wattage; initial microwaving time should be less, checking every 30 seconds.
- Air fryer reheating: Approximately 4 minutes at 375°F; effective for maintaining crispiness.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your slow cooker chicken and gravy for longer. It will stay flavorful and tender.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months |
Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications
There are many ways to make delicious crockpot chicken and gravy fit your diet. You can make it gluten-free or low-sodium by changing a few ingredients. For example, use gluten-free gravy mix or low-sodium broth to cut down on salt.
To make it dairy-free, swap out traditional ingredients for plant-based ones. This keeps the creamy taste without the dairy. Try using almond, soy, or coconut milk as substitutes.
You can also add veggies to boost the dish’s nutrition. Carrots, peas, or mushrooms are great choices. They add flavor and important nutrients. Mixing crockpot chicken and gravy with your favorite veggies makes for a healthy meal.
Here are some key variations and modifications you can make to the recipe:
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly higher fat content
- Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition
- Make a dairy-free version by substituting traditional ingredients with plant-based alternatives
- Use gluten-free chicken gravy mix for a gluten-free version
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth
These changes let you enjoy a tasty, healthy meal that meets your dietary needs. Whether you’re after gluten-free, low-sodium, or dairy-free, you can adapt crockpot chicken and gravy to fit your preferences.
| Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-free | Gluten-free chicken gravy mix | Follow the same instructions as the original recipe |
| Dairy-free | Plant-based milk alternative | Replace traditional dairy products with dairy-free alternatives |
| Low-sodium | Low-sodium chicken broth | Reduce the amount of sodium in the recipe by using low-sodium ingredients |
Conclusion: Mastering Your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Creating the perfect hearty chicken and gravy in your crockpot is easy and rewarding. Just follow the step-by-step guide and use the tips from this article. You’ll soon be making this comforting comfort food chicken and gravy like a pro.
Don’t be afraid to try different chicken cuts and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Your crockpot makes it all easy. With a bit of practice, you’ll have delicious chicken and rich gravy that everyone will love.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of this hearty meal. Savor the flavors that make crockpot chicken and gravy a true delight.