Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Tasty and Simple Recipe

Welcome to a meal that makes dinner easy and delicious! In this post, I’ll share my simple recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, fun tips for flavor, and even ideas for sides. Whether you’re busy or just want a warm dinner, this dish is here to help. Let’s dive into creating a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 packet (about 1 ounce) of ranch seasoning mix

– 1 packet (about 1 ounce) of onion soup mix

– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 cup condensed cream of chicken soup

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

– 1 tablespoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

– Cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes for serving

This recipe is simple and uses common ingredients. You start with chicken breasts, which provide the main protein. I love using low-sodium chicken broth. It adds flavor without too much salt. The ranch seasoning mix gives a nice tang, while onion soup mix adds depth.

The cream of chicken soup creates a rich base. Plus, I always add butter for creaminess. Garlic powder and black pepper enhance the flavor profile. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch at the end.

You can serve this dish over rice or mashed potatoes. They soak up the delicious gravy. It makes the meal comforting and filling. This recipe is great for busy days. You can prepare it early and let it cook. Enjoy the tasty results later!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Chicken

Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Lay them flat on the bottom. Make sure the chicken does not overlap. This helps each piece cook evenly and stay juicy.

Mixing the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix and onion soup mix. Add in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth. Pour this seasoned sauce over the chicken. Make sure every piece is well-coated for the best flavor.

Cooking Process

Set your crockpot to low heat for 6-7 hours. If you are short on time, use high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is very tender. You should be able to shred it easily with a fork.

Shredding and Combining

Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it well with the sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Maximum Flavor

To get the best flavor, use fresh spices. They add depth to your dish. A good tip is to mix dry spices with the wet ones in a bowl first. That way, you spread the taste evenly. You can also add some diced vegetables, like carrots or celery, for extra taste. They will cook down and blend into the gravy.

Texture and Consistency

To make a creamy gravy, use the right amount of cream of chicken soup. This is key for richness. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in at the end of cooking. Let it cook for a little longer to thicken up. If the gravy is too thick, add some chicken broth slowly until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily change up the flavors in this dish. Here are some fun swaps:

– Alternative seasoning mixes: Instead of ranch and onion soup mix, try taco seasoning or Italian herbs. This gives a new twist to the gravy.

– Different protein options: If you want variety, use thighs instead of breasts. You can also use turkey or even pork for a unique taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your dish well makes it even better:

– Pairing with sides: Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Both absorb the sauce perfectly.

– Ideas for garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and flavor. You can also serve with crusty bread to soak up that delicious gravy.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store your leftovers, let the chicken cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the sauce covers the chicken well. This keeps the chicken moist. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using a microwave, heat it on medium for a few minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. If using the stove, place it in a pan over low heat. Stir often until warm. To keep the sauce creamy, add a splash of chicken broth while heating. This will help revive the sauce’s smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot. Just know it will take longer to cook. Set your crockpot on high for about 5-6 hours. For best results, thaw the chicken first. This helps the flavors soak in better.

How to thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, don’t worry! You can thicken it easily. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this blend into the gravy. Let it cook for 10-15 more minutes. This will help it thicken up nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free. For the ranch and onion soup mixes, find gluten-free versions. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup too. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal!

What sides pair well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy tastes great with many sides. Here are some ideas:

– Cooked rice

– Creamy mashed potatoes

– Steamed vegetables

– Biscuits or crusty bread

These sides complement the rich flavor of the chicken and gravy perfectly!

In this blog, I covered all you need to know about making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. We explored the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips for flavor and texture. You learned about variations, storage tips, and answered common questions. With this knowledge, you can create a delicious meal with ease. Enjoy your cooking adventure and have fun making this dish unique for your tast