After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the alluring aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, savory gravy to wrap you in a cozy embrace. This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy not only fills your home with a mouthwatering scent but also eases the evening rush with minimal effort required. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of your slow cooker, you can serve up a comforting homemade meal that feels like a warm hug from grandma.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick solution or someone craving that classic comfort food vibe, this dish is your go-to option. Imagine sitting down to a bowl of shredded chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, all enveloped in creamy goodness. It’s perfect for those who want to break free from the fast-food cycle and embrace heartwarming home cooking. So, let’s dive into this no-fuss recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds!
Why is Crockpot Chicken and Gravy a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
Aromatic Comfort: As it cooks, your home fills with a tantalizing scent that will make everyone eagerly await dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy gravy and tender chicken creates a rich, satisfying taste that’s bound to impress.
Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles, making it adaptable to any craving or occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; it’s a dish everyone will love and want to come back for seconds!
Quick Cleanup: With just one pot to clean, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, boneless and skinless make for easy shredding.
For the Seasoning
- Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Pepper – A dash adds a perfect touch of spice, complementing the gravy well.
For the Gravy Base
- Condensed Soup – Provides a creamy base; opt for cream of chicken or mushroom as per your liking.
- Gravy Mix – Intensifies the flavor of the sauce; consider a low-sodium version for a healthier twist.
- Water (optional) – Adjusts the consistency; omit for a thicker gravy as desired.
Enjoy the process of crafting this comforting Crockpot Chicken and Gravy that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings your family together around the dinner table!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
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Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Ensure they are laid flat for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
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Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this simple step sets the groundwork for deliciousness that you can adjust according to your family’s taste.
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Whisk together condensed soup, gravy mix, and water in a bowl until fully combined. This mixture will create the rich, creamy gravy that envelops the chicken in comfort.
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Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure to coat all the chicken evenly to enhance flavor and texture during cooking.
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Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma.
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Shred the chicken with a fork right in the slow cooker. This makes for an easy mess-free serving; just mix the chicken with the gravy for a hearty dish!
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Serve over hot, steamed rice for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. You can also pair it with mashed potatoes or egg noodles if you prefer!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs, like parsley or thyme, for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy freezes beautifully! Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Serving Suggestions: Reheat and serve over fresh rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles to bring back that cozy comfort.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Chicken and Gravy are a perfect choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and mix the gravy ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Simply place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, pour the prepared gravy mixture over it, and let it do its magic for 4-6 hours on LOW. To maintain the quality, ensure the chicken is well coated to prevent any drying out, and always check for doneness (165°F) before shredding. This way, you can enjoy a cozy, homemade meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
When you’re ready to elevate your home-cooked experience beyond just the main dish, these pairings will wrap your meal in warmth and flavor.
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Fluffy Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the rich gravy, making every bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness complements the savory gravy, creating a comforting hug for your taste buds.
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Steamed Green Beans: The subtle crunch and freshness of these vegetables add a vibrant contrast to the rich and creamy chicken dish.
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Herb-Infused Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy; serve them fresh from the oven for irresistible comfort.
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Sweet Corn: The natural sweetness and slight crunch of corn can balance the savory flavor of the chicken and gravy—perfect for brightening the plate.
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Simple Side Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing element to the meal, cutting through the richness with every bite.
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Iced Sweet Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened, this beverage makes for a pleasing accompaniment that’s perfect to sip on while enjoying your meal.
Imagine enjoying a harmonious spread that not only delights your taste buds but also evokes the warmth of home.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe, adding your personal touch for a delightful twist!
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Chicken Thighs: Replace chicken breasts with thighs for a richer and more flavorful dish. The added fat ensures juiciness and depth in each bite.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes for added nutrition and texture. These vegetables absorb the savory gravy, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free condensed soup for a lighter version. It maintains the creamy texture while keeping it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. These aromatic herbs elevate the flavor and add a beautiful pop of color!
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. This will invigorate the dish, pleasing those who enjoy a little heat!
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Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the mixture for an earthy twist. The mushrooms soak up the flavors beautifully, offering an extra layer of taste.
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Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, substitute condensed soup with coconut cream. It creates a unique, creamy consistency with a subtle sweetness that’s truly comforting.
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Slow-Cooked Salsa: Add a jar of salsa to the cooker for a zesty, Southwestern-inspired dish. The tangy flavors will complement the chicken while keeping things exciting at the dinner table.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
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Avoid Overcooking: Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended 4-6 hours on LOW for the best results.
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Add Veggies: For a one-pot meal, toss in sliced carrots or potatoes, but remember to adjust cooking time; they may need extra time to soften.
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Browning Optional: While not necessary, browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker boosts flavor. Don’t skip this step if you have the time!
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Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the gravy mix can also add salt, so taste before adding more!
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Storing Leftovers: Ensure leftovers are in an airtight container and consume within three days. Enjoy the convenience of a comforting meal ready to reheat!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They shred easily and absorb the flavors of the gravy beautifully. However, if you prefer a richer taste, you can substitute with chicken thighs.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing the container to preserve freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully! To freeze, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and you can store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date to keep track.
What if the gravy is too thick or too thin?
If your gravy turns out too thick, simply add a little water or broth, stirring well until you reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, you can whisk together a bit of cornstarch with water and mix it in to help thicken it up. It’s all about adjusting to your preference to achieve that perfect creamy texture!
Can I add vegetables during cooking?
Certainly! Adding vegetables like carrots or potatoes is a great idea to enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into uniform sizes and add them to the slow cooker at the same time as the chicken. Keep in mind that you may need to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re tender, usually an additional 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the vegetable.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free condensed soup and a low-sodium gravy mix. Also, if you’re cooking for pets, remember that this dish is not suitable for them due to the high seasoning level. Always check ingredient labels for possible allergens like gluten or soy, especially in pre-packaged mixes.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: Comfort Food Made Simple
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Whisk together condensed soup, gravy mix, and water in a bowl until fully combined.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken with a fork right in the slow cooker.
- Serve over hot, steamed rice or mashed potatoes.