Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
When it comes to simple and delicious meals, nothing beats the convenience of a crockpot. One of the best recipes you can make in a slow cooker is Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. This dish is not only tasty but also requires minimal effort. You can prepare it in the morning, set it to cook, and return home to a warm and comforting dinner waiting for you. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or someone who just loves a good homemade meal, this recipe is perfect for you.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons to try out Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. First and foremost, it is incredibly simple. All you need is one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This is perfect for people who dislike doing the dishes. The cooking time also allows for a hands-off approach, giving you ample time to focus on other things throughout the day.
Another reason to make this dish is its versatility. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles. The creamy gravy adds a comforting and rich flavor, making it a family favorite. It’s a great way to get everyone around the dinner table with a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy.
Additionally, this recipe is customizable. You can add vegetables or even alter the seasoning to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd, this is a fantastic option. Plus, with simple ingredients like chicken, soup, and ranch dressing, it’s likely you already have what you need in your pantry.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can of chicken broth (10.5 oz)
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken: First, start with the chicken. Rinse the chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. This step is important to help season the chicken properly. Once dry, place the chicken in the crockpot.
Mix the Cooking Sauce: Next, take a medium-sized bowl to create the sauce. Add the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth to the bowl. Then, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix. If you choose to use garlic powder, add that as well. Finally, taste and add salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir the mixture together until all the ingredients are well combined.
Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure to coat the chicken well. This will help infuse the flavors throughout the cooking process.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when done.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. It will be hot, so use tongs or a fork. Place the chicken on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the gravy in the crockpot and mix well to combine.
Serve: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. When ready to serve, use a ladle to scoop out the chicken and gravy. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
This dish is wonderfully versatile. A popular way to serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is over creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy pairs perfectly with the fluffy potatoes. If you prefer, you can also serve this meal over rice or egg noodles. These options absorb the gravy well and add a nice texture to the dish.
For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. Green beans, broccoli, or carrots would make great complements. These sides not only add nutritional value but also enhance the overall dining experience.
Another creative idea is to use the chicken and gravy as a filling for sandwiches. You can pile shredded chicken on a soft bun, spoon on some gravy, and enjoy it as a delicious sandwich.
How to Store Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
If you happen to have leftovers (though they may not last long), storing them is easy. Allow the chicken and gravy to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the leftovers, place the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. Frozen chicken and gravy can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Choose the Right Cut of Chicken: Chicken thighs are often more tender and flavorful compared to chicken breasts. However, both work well in this recipe.
Add Vegetables: You can add chopped carrots, potatoes, or celery to the crockpot for extra nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces to cook evenly.
Use Fresh Herbs: While parsley adds a nice touch, you can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning. If you love spice, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or use a spicy ranch seasoning mix.
Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: For the best taste and texture, serve this dish while it’s hot and fresh.
Variation
While the original recipe is fantastic, you might want to try making it your own. Instead of using cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or even a homemade white sauce. Another variation is to add a can of diced tomatoes or green chiles to give it a different flavor profile.
If you want to make a healthier version, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and a light cream of chicken soup. You can also swap out half of the chicken for other proteins, like turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot. Just be aware that it will take slightly longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Q2: What can I serve with Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Q3: Can I customize the gravy?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices. You can also try different cream soups or broths to change up the flavor.
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a perfect meal for any occasion. With its simple preparation, delicious flavors, and comforting texture, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite of this delightful dish!
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and garlic powder if using.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces using forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the gravy in the crockpot and mix well.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.