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Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Picture this: it’s a Tuesday evening, and you’ve just returned home after a marathon day at work. The kids are buzzing with energy, needing your attention, and you’re exhausted. The last thing you want to think about is cooking a fancy dinner. If this scenario sounds familiar, then you’re in for a treat with this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe. This dish offers the perfect solution for busy moms and professionals, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it until dinnertime!
What Makes This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy a Must-Try
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe stands out for multiple reasons. First and foremost, its ease of preparation is a game-changer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. The unique flavor combination arrives from the harmony of tender chicken, savory gravy, and the subtle hints of spices. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a quick, healthy dinner option that checks all the boxes for flavor, comfort, and convenience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow you to add your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. It’s no wonder this dish has become a staple for those chaotic weeknights!
Practical Tips / Cooking Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For optimal succulence, use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They are more forgiving if overcooked and deliver a richer flavor.
- Time-Saving Technique: If you don’t have time to sear your chicken before adding it to the crockpot, skip that step! The slow cooking will still result in tender, flavorful meat.
- Customize Your Gravy: Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some garlic powder to the gravy for an extra punch!
- Bulk Up the Dish: Add in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or green beans, to make the dish heartier without additional effort.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy at the end, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer. The use of moderate fat in the gravy can also contribute to heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of your meal!
Recipe Overview
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is the epitome of convenience and taste. You can prepare it in less than ten minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you need a wholesome meal without extensive preparation. The creamy, savory gravy beautifully complements the tender chicken, creating a flavor profile that’s nothing short of comforting. Whether you choose to serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even inside cozy bread rolls, you can rest assured that this dish will leave your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution Option |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 2 lbs | Chicken breasts |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Vegetable broth |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Homemade white sauce |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Minced garlic |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Diced onion |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | N/A |
| Optional seasonings | To taste | Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce |
Instructions
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
Cover and set the crockpot on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If you added vegetables, they can be added halfway through cooking.
Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken right in the crockpot using two forks. Mix it into the gravy for enhanced flavor.
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or with bread rolls for a delicious meal!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to cook it longer, about 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
What vegetables can I add to this recipe?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, corn, or green beans. Stir them in halfway through the cooking process for optimal texture.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the gravy mixture.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Try using different proteins, such as turkey or pork, or switch up your gravy with mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. You can also try adding a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for a delicious twist!
Conclusion
In a world where busy schedules often hinder us from enjoying nutritious home-cooked meals, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy stands as the perfect solution. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and loved by all ages. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling kids and work or a professional navigating a hectic week, this dish promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction with minimal fuss. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experience with us! Also, be sure to explore other delightful recipes on our site — your next favorite meal is just a click away!
Savory Crockpot Chicken Gravy Recipe for Perfect Comfort Food
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Savory Crockpot Chicken Gravy recipe delivers perfect comfort food thats easy to make Enjoy tender chicken smothered in delicious gravy
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
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