There’s something so comforting about a warm meal that practically cooks itself, don’t you think? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come home after a long day, and the smell of my delicious crockpot chicken gravy has filled the house, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. This dish is my go-to for those busy weeknights when I want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful, creamy gravy that’s perfect over rice or mashed potatoes. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds! So, let’s get started on this easy and satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home, too!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) of onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying process! Making crockpot chicken gravy is all about layering flavors and letting that slow cooker work its magic. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- First, grab your trusty crockpot and place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom. You want them to soak up all that flavorful goodness!
- In a separate bowl, mix together the 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, and the 1 packet of onion soup mix. This mixture is going to create that rich, creamy gravy that everyone loves.
- Pour that delicious mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure every piece is covered! It’s like giving your chicken a warm, cozy blanket of flavor.
- Now, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skimp on this part—it really enhances the overall flavor.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid. This is super important because it keeps all that heat and moisture in, allowing the chicken to cook perfectly. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. Just let it do its thing while you go about your day!
- When it’s almost time to eat, carefully shred the chicken right in the crockpot using two forks. The chicken should be tender and fall apart easily. Stir it back into the gravy to combine everything. Wow, it smells amazing!
And just like that, you’re ready to serve up a hearty meal. Trust me, the smell alone will have everyone gathering around the table, eager for a taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it! This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
- Hearty and Comforting: The combination of tender chicken and rich, creamy gravy creates a dish that’s both filling and satisfying—perfect for any family dinner.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this comforting meal. Serve it up with rice or mashed potatoes, and watch everyone clean their plates!
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a great base for endless variations.
- Time-Saving: With the crockpot doing all the work, you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen. Just think of it as your personal chef!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s make sure you get the most out of this crockpot chicken gravy! Here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way that’ll help you nail this recipe every time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: If you’re doubling the recipe, make sure you have a larger crockpot or cook in batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Trust me, using good-quality chicken and broth really enhances the flavor. If you can, go for organic chicken and low-sodium broth to keep it healthier!
- Keep the Lid On: This might seem obvious, but keeping the lid on while cooking is crucial! Every time you lift it, you let out valuable heat and moisture. So, resist the urge to peek!
- Adjust Seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can also experiment with adding garlic powder or herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it a day ahead and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Shred with Care: When shredding the chicken, make sure to do it while it’s still warm. It will shred more easily and absorb that delicious gravy better!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to create a mouthwatering crockpot chicken gravy that your family will love. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this crockpot chicken gravy is how adaptable it is! You can easily mix things up and make it your own. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some diced carrots, potatoes, or peas for a hearty, one-pot meal. Just make sure to add them at the beginning so they have time to cook through.
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick. You could also add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for a zesty twist!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. Just add them to the broth mixture for a fragrant finish.
- Swapping the Soup: If you want to switch things up, try using cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken. It gives a whole new dimension to the dish!
- Make It a Casserole: After shredding the chicken, mix it with cooked rice or pasta and some cheese, then pop it in the oven for a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s simply irresistible.
Feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your taste! Each variation brings its own delicious twist to this comforting meal.
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving of this crockpot chicken gravy. Keep in mind that these can vary based on the specific ingredients used, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 40g
So, there you have it! This hearty dish is not only comforting but also packs a protein punch with the chicken. It’s a great option for a fulfilling dinner that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Enjoy your meal knowing it’s both delicious and nourishing!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly. The crockpot will need a bit more time to thaw and cook the chicken through, so aim for around 8-10 hours on low. This dish is super forgiving, so don’t worry too much!
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a healthier or different option, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep the same quantity, and you’ll still get that creamy goodness in your crockpot chicken gravy.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the gravy and chicken mixture for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! You can add in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy mixture for a kick. Just adjust it to your taste preference, and you’ll have a spicy twist on this comforting dish!
What can I serve with this dish?
This crockpot chicken gravy is fab over rice or mashed potatoes, but you could also serve it with egg noodles or even over biscuits for a comforting meal. Don’t forget some steamed veggies on the side to round it out!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delightful crockpot chicken gravy, the possibilities are endless! My absolute favorite way to enjoy it is over a fluffy bed of rice. The gravy seeps right into the grains, making each bite a delicious experience. If you’re in the mood for something extra comforting, creamy mashed potatoes are a fantastic choice, too! Just imagine that warm, savory gravy drizzled over the potatoes—heavenly!
Don’t forget to add a pop of color and nutrition with some steamed veggies on the side. Broccoli, green beans, or even a crisp salad can balance the richness of the gravy and make for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it alongside warm, buttery biscuits to soak up every last drop of that luscious gravy. Trust me, your family will be raving about this meal long after the plates are cleaned!
Print
Crockpot Chicken Gravy: 5 Comforting Steps to Warm Hearts
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and hearty dish featuring chicken cooked in a flavorful gravy.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and onion soup mix.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred the chicken before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or mashed potatoes.
- You can add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken gravy, chicken recipe, easy dinner