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Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and gravy. When prepared in the trusty crockpot, this dish transcends the mundane, transforming a simple recipe into a celebration of delicious flavors. If you’ve ever longed for a dish that embodies coziness, satisfaction, and ease, look no further—your new favorite comfort food is just a few ingredients away.

Why Make This Recipe

Effortless preparation: This crockpot recipe requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on your day while dinner cooks itself.
Flavor explosion: The combination of ranch dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, and gravy results in an umami-rich sauce that elevates tender, juicy chicken.

This dish isn’t just practical; it’s also an inviting option for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Creating a delicious meal in your crockpot has never been easier. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this scrumptious chicken and gravy that your family will love.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful meal, you will need the following ingredients:

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
1 oz (1 packet) ranch dressing mix
1 oz (1 packet) brown gravy mix
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
½ cup sour cream
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this delicious meal.

Prepare Chicken
Rinse chicken under cold water, pat dry, and place it into your slow cooker.
Combine Gravy Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and brown gravy mix until smooth and well combined.
Pour Over Chicken
Pour the prepared creamy mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Season
Season the chicken and gravy mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook
Secure the lid tightly and cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Shred Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it into the gravy.
Serve
Stir gently to combine the chicken and gravy. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy!

Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Proper storage of your delicious crockpot chicken and gravy ensures you can savor leftovers without compromising on flavor. Keep these guidelines in mind:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and gravy in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave.
Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess if needed.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility when serving. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your meal:

Over Mashed Potatoes: The classic pairing of chicken and gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes cannot be beaten. This addition creates a hearty base to soak up the luscious sauce.
On Rice: If you’re in the mood for something lighter, serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting yet slightly less heavy meal.
With Noodles: Egg noodles work wonderfully with the gravy. Cook them until al dente and spoon the chicken and gravy generously on top for a classic comfort food experience.
As a Sandwich: For a fun twist, shred the chicken and spoon it onto a toasted bun, adding some coleslaw for crunch.
Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley; it adds a lovely burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Tips to Make Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

To enhance your crockpot chicken and gravy experience, keep these handy tips in mind:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor. While dried herbs can be useful, opt for fresh parsley as a garnish to brighten the dish.
Add Veggies: Consider throwing in some vegetables like carrots or peas during the last few hours of cooking to create a wholesome one-pot meal.
Adjust Seasoning: Be mindful of seasoning to accommodate different preferences. Start with less salt, as gravy mixes can be salty, and adjust according to taste.
Experiment with Chicken Types: While breasts are the go-to, thighs can offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. They pair beautifully in this recipe.

Variations or Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous or have specific dietary needs, consider these variations:

Swap for Chicken Thighs: If you enjoy richer flavors, use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead. They are more forgiving and stay juicier during the cooking process.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, choose a gluten-free gravy mix and check the other packaging for certification, ensuring all ingredients align with gluten-free diets.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and gravy mixture up to the cooking step and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, place the mixture in the crockpot and cook as directed.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great and can add more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed based on the thickness.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture before cooking.

Enjoying a bowl of crockpot chicken and gravy offers warmth and heartiness unmatched by other meals. It captures the essence of comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re simply craving something delicious without the fuss. With easy preparation and a delicious outcome, this recipe will surely become a staple in your home, complete with delightful variations to suit every palate. Try it tonight and share it with those you love!