Crockpot chicken and gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days or cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix
- 1 can cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 can of water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 3 whole chicken breasts, boneless skinless (about a pound)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions:
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika, ensuring a good coating on each piece.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, gravy packets, and cream of Chicken Soup until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. Check the chicken occasionally to ensure it is cooking evenly.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and tender (approximately 4.5 hours), carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Shred or cut the chicken into desired pieces.
- Whisk the sour cream into the remaining gravy mixture in the slow cooker until smooth. This will create a creamy and flavorful sauce for the chicken.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over your choice of accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, rice, stove top stuffing, or egg noodles.
Tips:
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a little water and add it to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the cooking time is done.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Conclusion:
Crockpot chicken and gravy is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy tender chicken smothered in a creamy and flavorful gravy. Try this recipe for a comforting dinner that the whole family will love!
- Can I use other cuts of chicken besides chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can certainly use other cuts of chicken for this recipe. Chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a combination of different cuts can work well. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut and size of the chicken pieces. It’s essential to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Is it necessary to use two packets of chicken gravy mix?
- Using two packets of chicken gravy mix helps to ensure that you have enough gravy to cover the chicken adequately and create a flavorful sauce. However, if you prefer a lighter gravy or want to reduce the sodium content, you can use just one packet or even make your gravy from scratch using chicken broth, flour, and seasonings. Adjust the consistency and seasoning according to your preferences.
- Can I substitute sour cream with another ingredient?
- While sour cream adds richness and creaminess to the gravy, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option or heavy cream for a richer taste. Keep in mind that each substitution may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the gravy, so adjust accordingly. Alternatively, you can omit the sour cream altogether for a lighter version of the dish.
- How can I prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking?
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, ensure that you cook it on low heat and avoid overcooking. Check the chicken periodically during the cooking process to ensure it is cooking evenly and not becoming too dry. If you find that the chicken is drying out, you can add a little more water or chicken broth to the slow cooker to keep it moist. Additionally, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts helps to retain moisture, but you can also leave the skin on or use bone-in chicken for added flavor and moisture.
- Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken and gravy?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as carrots, onions, potatoes, or celery can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken and gravy mixture. Keep in mind that different vegetables have varying cooking times, so you may want to add them at different stages during the cooking process to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of tenderness. Additionally, using frozen mixed vegetables is a convenient option that requires no chopping and can be added directly to the slow cooker.