Introduction to Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
The ease of crockpot meals for busy young professionals
If you’re a busy young professional juggling work, social life, and perhaps a budding culinary interest, crockpot meals could be your new best friend. Enter our delightful Crockpot Chicken and Gravy—a simple, stress-free recipe with only three ingredients!
Imagine this: you step through the door after a long day, ready to unwind. You flick on your slow cooker in the morning, toss in some chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, and gravy mix, and let it do its thing. This is meal prep at its finest. No fuss, no distractions—just deliciousness waiting for you when you get home.
This dish is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. The rich flavors of the gravy pair beautifully with various sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or even steamed vegetables. Plus, making a meal that’s both comforting and kid-friendly means you can cater to everyone at your table, whether they’re picky eaters or adventurous foodies.
Explore more about slow cooking here and discover the joys of cooking without the chaos!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Essential ingredients for a simple, flavorful dish
Creating a delicious crockpot chicken and gravy dish is a breeze with just a few core ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of your dish, providing tender, juicy protein.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can of unsalted cream of chicken soup: This will create a rich, creamy base for your gravy.
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix: No need to fuss with homemade gravies; these packets offer convenience and taste.
- ½ cup water or chicken broth (optional): Adding this can enhance the flavor and help achieve your desired gravy consistency.
These uncomplicated ingredients offer maximum flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Optional ingredients for added flavor and nutrition
Want to elevate your crockpot chicken and gravy even further? Consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Frozen vegetables: Peas, carrots, or green beans can add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Seasonings: Don’t shy away from adding garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for an extra flavor kick.
- Cornstarch slurry: For a thicker gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Whichever extras you choose, these additions can turn a simple dish into something special, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Preparing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ah, the beauty of crockpot chicken and gravy—a dish that’s not only delicious but incredibly simple to prepare. Let's walk through each step to ensure your meal turns out perfectly!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to grab all your ingredients so that you're ready to go. For this recipe, you'll need:
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5-oz) can of unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix
- ½ cup of water or chicken broth (optional)
Don’t forget the hot steamed rice to serve it on! Now, take a moment to rinse your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This not only helps with seasoning but also ensures a juicy end product.
Season the chicken
Now that your chicken is prepped, let’s make it sing with flavor! Lightly season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it adds a layer of taste that accentuates the creamy gravy. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other herbs or spices like garlic powder or paprika to give it that personal touch.
Mix the cream of chicken soup and gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and the two envelopes of chicken gravy mix until smooth. This mixture is the cornerstone of your dish and will create that rich, savory sauce we all love. If you choose to add the optional chicken broth or water, do this here for a slightly thinner gravy—perfect for soaking into your rice.
Combine everything in the slow cooker
Now comes the fun part! Place the seasoned chicken breasts into your slow cooker and pour the creamy soup and gravy mixture on top. Make sure to coat all the chicken evenly for maximum flavor. There’s no need to stir; just leave it as is! Cover the crockpot and make sure the lid is secure before you move on to the next step.
Set the crockpot and forget about it!
The best part about crockpot chicken and gravy is that you can set it and forget it. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to develop while the chicken becomes fork-tender. This is a great time to catch up on chores, work, or even enjoy a good book! When the timer goes off, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the pot to absorb even more flavor, and you're good to go.
This dish pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice or even mashed potatoes. The creamy gravy elevates everything it touches—your family will love it! If you're looking for more inspiration, check out this guide on meal prep tips for busy weeknights. Enjoy your easy and delicious meal!
Variations on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Chicken and Gravy with Veggies
Elevate your crockpot chicken and gravy by adding a colorful array of vegetables! Toss in some chopped carrots, peas, or even broccoli. Not only do they add vibrant colors to your dish, but they also pack in nutrition, making it a wholesome meal. Just throw them in with your chicken and gravy mix in the slow cooker and let it all meld together. You’ll be surprised at how delicious and satisfying it can be!
Alternative Serving Suggestions
While steaming hot rice is a classic choice, consider mixing it up with creamy mashed potatoes for your crockpot chicken and gravy. The gravy pairs beautifully with both, but mashed potatoes offer a rich, buttery flavor that takes comfort food to the next level. Whichever you choose, you’ll end up with a hearty meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Want a little crunch? Serve alongside some crusty bread or a fresh salad for balance!
Cooking tips and notes for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Best practices for achieving tender chicken
To ensure your crockpot chicken and gravy turns out perfectly tender, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They absorb flavors beautifully and won't dry out during long slow cooking. Keep in mind, cooking on low for about 4 to 6 hours will give the best results, allowing the chicken to become juicy and flavorful. If you're short on time, frozen chicken works too, but increase the cooking time. For added richness, consider including a splash of chicken broth.
How to avoid common slow-cooker pitfalls
Avoid the common mistake of adding too much liquid—stick with just the soup as it’s rich enough for flavor. Also, ensure your crockpot chicken and gravy is appropriately seasoned; feel free to incorporate herbs or spices for that extra punch. Remember to resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking; each peek lets heat escape, potentially affecting cooking times. For more tips, check out resources like Slow Cooker Central for expert advice!
Serving suggestions for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Suggestions for sides and pairings
When serving your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, it’s all about comfort and ease. Here are some delicious pairing ideas to elevate your meal:
- Hot Steamed Rice: The classic choice! The gravy seeps into the rice, creating a satisfying harmony of flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect canvas for drenching in that delightful gravy.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed, they add a nice crunch and bright color to your plate.
- Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy—no drop left behind!
Creative ways to use leftovers
Got leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy? No problem! Here are a few creative ways to repurpose it:
- Chicken Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and serve it on a bun for a quick and tasty sandwich.
- Casserole: Mix with cooked pasta, veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese for a comforting casserole dish.
- Soup: Add broth and some chopped vegetables to create a warming soup that’s great for lunch or dinner.
By getting creative, you'll want this dish on repeat! For more inspiration, check out Simply Recipes for ideas on transforming your leftovers.
Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Preparation Time
Getting started is a breeze! You’ll need about 5 minutes to prepare the ingredients. Just season the chicken, combine the soup and gravy mix, and your slow cooker is ready to go!
Cooking Time
Set your crockpot chicken and gravy to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. This hands-off time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you enjoy your day.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes from prep to plate. This means more time for you to relax or take care of other tasks while dinner cooks itself!
Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
When it comes to convenience and nutrition, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy strikes a delightful balance. Here are some key nutritional details:
Calories
Each serving contains about 91 calories, making it a light option for a comforting meal.
Protein
Rich in protein, this dish offers approximately 12 grams per serving, perfect for muscle recovery and satiety.
Sodium
With approximately 480 mg of sodium per serving, it's wise to consider using unsalted ingredients for a healthier twist.
For more insights on meal prep and wholesome eating, check out resources like the USDA’s Nutrition Database.
FAQ about Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
How can I make this dish lower in sodium?
To reduce the sodium content of your crockpot chicken and gravy, opt for unsalted ingredients. Start with unsalted cream of chicken soup and look for low-sodium gravy mixes. Alternatively, making your own gravy can be a healthier option. This way, you control the sodium levels while still enjoying a savory flavor. Check out our recipe for Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup for a from-scratch version!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken breasts in your crockpot chicken and gravy is a huge time-saver. Just be sure to extend the cooking time by about an hour. Always ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety.
What are some easy sides to pair with chicken and gravy?
For a complete meal, consider simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes. You can also serve this dish over hot steamed rice or even noodles for a delightful twist. These sides complement the rich flavors of the crockpot chicken and gravy perfectly!
Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Embracing convenient home-cooked meals
In today’s fast-paced world, crockpot chicken and gravy offers a delicious and effortless solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just three ingredients, it’s perfect for families and anyone seeking wholesome flavors without the fuss. So, set it and forget it—your taste buds will thank you!
Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Equipment
- 6-qt Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Chicken and Gravy Ingredients
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup 10.5 oz
- 2 envelopes chicken gravy mix 0.87 oz each
- ½ cup water or chicken broth optional
- hot steamed rice for serving
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Whisk together soup, gravy mix, and water (if using). Pour over chicken.
- Cover crock-pot and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.
- Before serving break the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Serve over hot steamed rice.
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