Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy: 5 Easy Steps for Perfect Results
Discover the ultimate comfort food that makes dinner easy. Crock pot chicken and gravy is your secret to a delicious meal with little effort. This chicken crockpot recipe will change your weeknight cooking, giving you tasty results that everyone will love.
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| Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy, a hearty and comforting dish from the clucky recipes brand. A whole chicken slowly simmered in a flavorful gravy, the meat falling off the bone. Tender potatoes, carrots, and onions surround the bird, |
Slow cooker recipes like this are perfect for busy cooks who want great taste with less work. With just four ingredients and five minutes of prep, you'll make a hearty meal that tastes like it cooked all day.
Key Takeaways
- Only 5 minutes of preparation required
- Perfect for busy families and home cooks
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
- Versatile recipe for multiple meal options
- Easily customizable with simple variations
Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
Discovering an easy chicken crockpot recipe can change weeknight dinners. This crockpot chicken and gravy dish is your secret kitchen weapon. It's budget-friendly, saves time, and tastes amazing.
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Your wallet will love this affordable easy chicken dish. It makes a big meal for six people at a low cost. You'll need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 2 chicken gravy mix packets
- Basic seasonings
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Imagine coming home to a warm, tasty meal without spending hours cooking. This chicken crockpot recipe is perfect for busy families. It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and cooks for 6-8 hours.
"Set it and forget it" - the ultimate mantra for stress-free cooking!
Minimal Prep Time Required
It only takes 7 hours and 5 minutes to make, with most of that time hands-off. Just mix the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a meal with 245 calories and 25 grams of protein.
This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe shows that tasty, homemade meals don't have to be hard or take a lot of time.
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| This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe shows that tasty, homemade meals don't have to be hard or take a lot of time |
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
Making tasty chicken crock pot recipes easy is all about the right ingredients. Your chicken gravy will be the main attraction, combining simple yet tasty parts. It turns regular chicken into a truly special dish.
Here's what you need for your chicken gravy recipes:
- 2-2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 packets of chicken gravy mix (0.87 oz each)
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each)
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup sour cream
- Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
This recipe is easy to make. Chicken gravy becomes creamy and rich with just a few items from your pantry. The mix of gravy mix and cream of chicken soup makes the chicken taste amazing.
Pro tip: If you have dietary needs, swap the cream of chicken soup for a homemade or low-sodium version. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.
Cooking is about creating comfort on a plate – and this chicken crock pot recipe does just that!
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make your slow cooker chicken breast recipe, you need some basic kitchen tools. The right equipment makes cooking in your crockpot easy and fun. Let's look at the essential items for tasty chicken and gravy.
Slow Cooker Size Recommendations
Choosing the right slow cooker is key for great chicken breast recipes. For this cream of chicken soup dish, a 5-quart or larger slow cooker is best. This size fits 2 pounds of chicken breasts perfectly.
| Slow Cooker Size | Recommended Use | Serving Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 4-5 Quarts | Small Family Meals | 3-4 servings |
| 6-7 Quarts | Large Family Meals | 5-6 servings |
| 8+ Quarts | Batch Cooking | 7-8 servings |
Optional Utensils for Shredding
When your chicken is cooked, you'll need tools to shred it well. Here are some tools you might find useful:
- Two-fork method for traditional shredding
- Handheld electric mixer for quick shredding
- Meat claws for easy pulling
- Sturdy tongs for separating chicken
Pro tip for crockpot cooking: Always check that your chicken is at least 165°F for safety. These tools will help you shred the chicken into tender pieces for your slow cooker chicken breast recipe.
Preparing Your Chicken for Slow Cooking
https://youtube.com/watch?v=X5FcGxFY_A4
Starting with chicken crockpot recipes? The first step is to prepare your chicken right. Choose high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will become tender and full of flavor in your slow cooker.
Seasoning your chicken is crucial. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
- Sprinkle ½ teaspoon kosher salt evenly
- Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Dust with ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Include 1 teaspoon onion powder for extra flavor
Frozen chicken works great in slow cookers too. If using frozen chicken breasts, add about 1 hour to your cooking time. Chicken must reach 165°F to be safe to eat.
Here's a tip: Evenly season the chicken by gently rubbing spices into the meat. This ensures the flavors are spread out, making your dish even more delicious for your family.
Creating the Perfect Gravy Base
Making delicious chicken gravy can turn a simple meal into a special comfort food moment. Your slow cooker chicken gravy recipe will be a hit with your family once you learn to make a rich, smooth base.
The key to great gravy recipes is choosing the right ingredients and mixing them well. You'll need these important items:
- 2 gravy mix packets (1 chicken, 1 brown)
- 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 10 ounces of chicken broth
- Additional seasonings for depth of flavor
Mixing Gravy Packets and Cream Soup
To make a smooth chicken gravy, follow these steps:
- Whisk gravy packets with cream of chicken soup
- Slowly add chicken broth while stirring
- Make sure the mix is mostly smooth with just a few lumps
Seasoning Tips for Enhanced Flavor
Take your chicken gravy to the next level with these seasoning tips:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasonings little by little. Remember, the gravy's flavor will get stronger as it cooks, so start with a small amount of salt and spices.
Slow Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
Mastering crockpot cooking is all about the slow cooker recipes for chicken. Your success with chicken crockpot recipes depends on the right cooking times and temperatures. These steps turn regular chicken into a tender, flavorful dish.
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| A warm, rustic kitchen scene featuring a large, vintage-style crockpot simmering with perfectly cooked chicken in a rich, creamy gravy. The crockpot is positioned on a weathered wooden countertop, surrounded by fresh herbs, |
When you're cooking your chicken crockpot recipe, you have two main options:
- Low Temperature Setting: 6-8 hours cooking time
- High Temperature Setting: 2-3 hours cooking time
The low and slow method makes chicken tender and juicy. Professional chefs say the low-temperature setting is best for great results.
| Cooking Setting | Cooking Time | Recommended Chicken Type |
|---|---|---|
| Low Temperature | 6-8 hours | Boneless, skinless chicken breasts |
| High Temperature | 2-3 hours | Thinner chicken cuts |
Make sure your chicken is at least 165°F for it to be safe to eat. If your chicken is frozen, add about an hour to the cooking time.
"The secret to perfect slow cooker chicken is patience and precision." - Home Cooking Experts
How to Achieve the Perfect Gravy Consistency
Making the perfect chicken gravy in your crock pot is easy with a few tricks. These tips will make your gravy go from good to amazing.
Getting the right consistency in crock pot chicken and gravy is key. You want a smooth, rich sauce that covers the chicken well.
Troubleshooting Gravy Texture
If your gravy is too thin, here's what to do:
- Make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water
- Add the slurry to the gravy for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking
- Let it simmer to thicken on its own
Adding Finishing Touches
Take your gravy to the next level with these steps:
- Shred the chicken with two forks
- Stir in ½ cup of sour cream for more richness
- Adjust the seasonings to taste
The secret to great crock pot chicken and gravy is patience and small tweaks. Your family will enjoy the creamy, tasty gravy that comes from these easy steps.
Best Side Dish Pairings
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| A tempting array of delectable side dishes for a comforting chicken dinner, photographed in warm, soft lighting. In the foreground, a generous serving of creamy mashed potatoes, sprinkled with chopped chives... |
Make your easy chicken dishes unforgettable with the right side dishes. The perfect match can turn your comfort food into a hit. It's a meal that everyone will enjoy.
Classic sides go great with your slow cooker chicken and gravy. Here are some top picks:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate classic pairing that soaks up gravy perfectly
- Fluffy White Rice: A light base that balances the rich chicken
- Buttered Egg Noodles: Provides a delightful texture contrast
Vegetable sides add nutrition and color to your meals. Roasted options are a great choice:
- Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots: Brings sweet and savory notes
- Roasted Broccoli: Can be cooked simultaneously with chicken
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness
Pro tip: Pick sides that can cook while your chicken is in the Crock Pot. This way, everything is ready at the same time. It makes your meal prep easy and stress-free.
Remember, the best sides should highlight your main dish. Your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is the star.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious chicken crockpot recipes, proper storage is key. It keeps the flavor and ensures food safety. Simple techniques can keep your meal tasty and fresh.
For refrigeration, put the chicken and gravy in an airtight container after cooling. Your crockpot cooking masterpiece stays fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep the taste in.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Cool chicken completely before storing
- Use airtight containers with secure lids
- Store in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking
- Consume within 3-4 days
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers
- Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn
- Label containers with date and contents
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months
When reheating, always make sure the chicken reaches 165°F. Use the microwave or stovetop, stirring often. Frozen leftovers should thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pro tip: If the gravy separates, whisk it gently while reheating. Adding a bit of chicken broth can help restore its smoothness and prevent dryness.
Recipe Variations and Customization Options
Chicken crockpot recipes are super versatile. You can turn a simple dish into something amazing. You can make your slow cooker recipes fit your taste and health needs.
Easy chicken dishes get even better when you try new ingredients and flavors. Let's look at some tasty ways to change up your crockpot chicken and gravy.
Vegetable Enhancements
Adding veggies can make your meal healthier and tastier. Here are some great options:
- Sliced carrots for sweetness
- Frozen peas for color and protein
- Sliced mushrooms for earthy flavor
- Diced bell peppers for crunch
Seasoning Alternatives
Trying new seasonings can turn your chicken dish into a fun journey. Here are some flavor ideas:
- Herb Blend: Rosemary, thyme, and sage
- Spicy Version: Cayenne pepper and smoked paprika
- Mediterranean Style: Oregano and garlic powder
- Cajun Twist: Blackened seasoning mix
Dietary Adaptations
| Dietary Restriction | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Almond milk cream soup, cashew sour cream |
| Gluten-Free | Cornstarch instead of flour, gluten-free gravy mix |
| Low-Sodium | Reduced-sodium broth, homemade seasoning blend |
Remember, the secret to great chicken crockpot recipes is to be creative. Don't hesitate to try new things and make it your own!
Tips for Making Ahead and Freezing
Make your crockpot chicken and gravy a staple for budget meals and family dinners. Smart meal prep saves time on busy weeknights. It ensures a tasty meal is always ready.
Turn your chicken and gravy into a freezer meal. Package the raw mix in a labeled Ziploc freezer bag. It's safe for up to 2 months, great for busy families.
Remember to write the date and what's inside the bag. This keeps track of freshness. When thawed, cook for an extra hour. This way, you get a comforting meal with little prep, ideal for hectic evenings.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in this Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken works well. Just add 1-2 hours to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is 165°F for safety and is fully cooked before shredding.
How long can I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat to 165°F for safety and quality.
Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts or thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs are great. Breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier. Cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe isn't gluten-free due to gravy mix and cream of chicken soup. But, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free gravy packets and cream of chicken soup. Make sure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes! Add carrots, peas, mushrooms, or diced potatoes for a complete meal. Put firmer veggies like carrots at the start. Add delicate ones like peas later.
What's the best way to shred the chicken?
Use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Or, remove it, shred with forks or a hand mixer, and return to the gravy.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
You can use the oven or stovetop instead. In the oven, cook in a covered Dutch oven at 350°F for 1-1.5 hours. On the stovetop, simmer in a covered pot on low heat, checking often.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this recipe?
Try mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles with the gravy. For a full meal, add steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli. A simple salad also pairs well with the chicken and gravy.
