Introduction to Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
A hearty bowl of Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, especially for young professionals juggling busy schedules. With only three simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a nourishing meal with just a few minutes of prep time. Imagine coming home after a long day, greeted by the comforting aromas wafting from your kitchen, knowing dinner is ready.
Why Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is Perfect for Young Professionals
This easy recipe is all about convenience. Young professionals often find themselves pressed for time, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or nutrition. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on your day without worrying about dinner. Plus, it's highly adaptable—swap in frozen chicken breasts or toss in some vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Quick Preparation: Spend just 5 minutes assembling your ingredients before heading off to work.
- Flexibility: Use your favorite grains—serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa!
- Meal Variety: Create delicious shredded chicken sandwiches with leftovers, adding even more value to your meal.
Explore the full recipe and discover the joys of a slow-cooked meal tailored to fit your lifestyle. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Essential ingredients for a simple meal
To whip up a deliciously comforting Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, you'll need just a handful of key ingredients, making it straightforward for even the busiest of weeknights. Here's what you'll need:
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of the show, ideally fresh, but frozen works too!
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: This gives the dish its rich, creamy base.
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix: No need for complicated sauces; this provides incredible flavor.
- ½ cup water or chicken broth (optional): If you prefer a slightly thinner gravy, this little addition can make a difference.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
Want to kick up the flavor a notch? Consider adding:
- Frozen vegetables: Toss in some mixed veggies during cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Seasonings: A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or even some herbs can enhance the taste even more.
The flexibility of this recipe means you can make it your own! If you're curious for more options or variations, check out other ideas on Simple Chicken Recipes.
Step-by-step Preparation of Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Making Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is an effortless process that can transform a busy weeknight into a delightful meal with minimal fuss. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will have your family eager for dinner.
Gather and prep the ingredients
Start by collecting all the necessary ingredients. For this easy recipe, you will need:
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5-oz) can of unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix
- ½ cup of water or chicken broth (optional)
- Hot steamed rice for serving
It’s always helpful to check your pantry beforehand to ensure you’re not scrambling at the last minute. If you want to make this even easier, consider prepping your ingredients in advance or picking up store-bought versions. You can find the cream of chicken soup readily available at local stores or through retailers like Amazon.
Season the chicken
Next, add a little flavor to the star of the dish—your chicken! Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the dish without requiring any specialty spices or complex techniques.
Mix the soup and gravy mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together the can of soup and the chicken gravy mix. If you decide to use water or chicken broth, add it in for a more soup-like consistency. Remember, you’re not making the gravy in advance; you’ll be using the dry mix directly, which simplifies the process considerably.
Combine chicken and mixture in the crockpot
Now it's time to bring it all together. Pour the soup and gravy mixture over the seasoned chicken in the crockpot, making sure that the chicken is well coated. This is where the magic begins!
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. If you’ve started with frozen chicken, expect to lean toward the 6-hour mark.
Cook and shred the chicken
Once the cooking time is up, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of tender chicken. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and, using two forks, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the gravy mixture, allowing it to absorb even more flavor.
Spoon the warm chicken and gravy over hot steamed rice for a comforting, family-friendly meal. The beauty of Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is its flexibility; you can even add frozen vegetables or serve it over mashed potatoes if you prefer.
By following these steps, you'll have a simple, savory dish that practically makes itself—perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious and wholesome. Enjoy!
Variations on Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Adding vegetables for a one-pot meal
Why not elevate your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy by tossing in some veggies? Classic options like carrots, peas, and potatoes add flavor and nutrition, creating a hearty one-pot meal. Simply add them to the slow cooker alongside the chicken for effortless cooking. Plus, frozen veggies work great—just dump them in and let the crockpot do its magic!
Crafting a gluten-free version
If you or someone you know follows a gluten-free diet, this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is easy to adapt! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your gravy mix is certified gluten-free. These simple swaps maintain all the deliciousness without compromising dietary needs. Check out high-quality gluten-free gravy options at places like Amazon or your local grocery store for a hassle-free solution!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Avoiding Common Mistakes
To create the perfect Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, avoid adding extra water to the cream of chicken soup. Let the soup provide its rich flavor without dilution. Also, ensure you're using the dry gravy mix as instructed—no need to add additional liquid here! If you’re using frozen chicken, adjust the cooking time to the higher end to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Got leftovers? Store your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to avoid dryness. Need to save it for later? Consider freezing portions for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!
For more tips on storing chicken, check out USDA Safe Food Handling.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Suggested sides for a balanced meal
To create a hearty and balanced meal with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, consider pairing it with:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up the gravy perfectly.
- Steamed vegetables: Think green beans, broccoli, or carrots for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Biscuits or dinner rolls: Soft, warm bread is excellent for mopping up that savory gravy.
Creative ways to serve leftovers
Leftovers from your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy can be just as exciting. Try these ideas:
- Chicken & Gravy Sandwiches: Layer shredded chicken with gravy on a crusty roll for a quick lunch.
- Rice Bowls: Transform leftovers into a delicious rice bowl topped with avocado and your favorite salsa.
- Gravy Soup: Add broth and veggies to the leftover chicken and gravy to create a comforting soup.
With these suggestions, your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy can transform into multiple delightful meals!
Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Preparation Time
Getting started on this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is a breeze! You'll need just 5 minutes to prepare the chicken and mix the sauces. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Cooking Time
Once you're ready to go, set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic over 4 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking method makes the chicken tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Total Time
All in all, you're looking at a total time of about 4 hours and 5 minutes from prep to plate. This means you can pop it in the crockpot before heading out for the day and come home to a delicious, comforting meal ready for your family.
For more handy tips and variations, check out Plain Chicken's recipe page!
Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
When considering your next meal, Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is a hearty choice that balances nutrition with flavor. Here’s a concise breakdown of its nutritional profile:
- Calories: 91 per serving, making it a light option for dinner.
- Protein: Contains 12 grams per serving, supporting muscle health and keeping you full.
- Sodium: At 480 mg, it's a good idea to opt for unsalted products to manage your intake.
Feel free to explore more about healthy eating habits on resources like the USDA Nutrition page to make informed decisions about your meal planning!
FAQs about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts when making this easy Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. Just keep in mind that you'll need to extend the cooking time on the higher end, around 6–8 hours on low. The slow cooker will work its magic, tenderizing the chicken deliciously!
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, there are several ways to amp up the spice in your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy. Consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. For a flavorful kick, a splash of hot sauce or a bit of Cajun seasoning can also do wonders. You could even sauté some onions and garlic beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with hot steamed rice. If you're looking for more options, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or even alongside a fresh salad. Green beans and steamed broccoli make great vegetable sides too. Check out this easy side dish recipe for inspiration!
Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
In summary, Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, offering a simple yet flavorful meal that your whole family will love. With just three ingredients, it’s easy to make and promises tender chicken every time. Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting dish your loved ones will request again and again. Enjoy!
Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Equipment
- 6-qt Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts Can use chicken thighs or tenderloins.
- 1 can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 2 envelopes chicken gravy mix Use dry mix only.
- ½ cup water or chicken broth Optional.
- hot steamed rice For serving.
Instructions
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Whisk together soup, gravy mix, and water (if using). Pour over chicken.
- Cover crock-pot and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.
- Before serving break the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Serve over hot steamed rice.
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