If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is the perfect recipe for you. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful gravy, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to please. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Season them with salt and pepper.
- Make the Gravy Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy. Continue cooking with the lid off for the last 30 minutes to allow the gravy to thicken.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred or slice them as desired.
- Serve the chicken with the rich gravy poured over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy your day.
- Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of ranch seasoning and creamy soup creates a deliciously rich gravy that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
- Versatile: Serve this dish over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an additional 1-2 hours.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as a substitute.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream soup substitute and non-dairy milk.
Conclusion
Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results!
Serving and Storage Tips for Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy
Serving Tips
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy is perfect when poured over fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Rice: Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
- Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta are excellent choices for soaking up the flavorful gravy.
- Vegetables: Complement the meal with steamed or roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli.
- Garnishing:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
- Additional Toppings: Consider adding a light drizzle of additional gravy or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Presentation:
- Serving Platter: Transfer the chicken breasts and gravy to a serving platter for a more elegant presentation.
- Individual Plates: For a casual meal, serve directly from the slow cooker onto individual plates.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Cooling: Allow the chicken and gravy to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Containers: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers.
- Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the dish even more delicious on subsequent days.
- Freezing:
- Preparation: If you want to freeze the dish, ensure it has cooled completely before freezing.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Shelf Life: Frozen chicken breasts with gravy can be stored for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating:
- Thawing: For frozen leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the gravy is too thick.
- Slow Cooker: You can also reheat in the slow cooker on low until warmed through, but be cautious not to overcook the chicken.
- Avoiding Common Issues:
- Dry Chicken: Ensure the chicken is fully covered with gravy to prevent it from drying out during storage and reheating.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy thickens too much during storage, simply add a bit of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy texture when reheating.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy at its best, whether you’re having it fresh or as a delicious leftover meal.
1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but be aware that they may require a bit more cooking time. The bone can also add extra flavor to the gravy. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving or shred the chicken off the bone after cooking.
2. Can I make this recipe with other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs or even drumsticks if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dark meat tends to take a bit longer to cook compared to chicken breasts. Ensure all chicken pieces are fully cooked before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensuring your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free. Also, be sure to use a gluten-free chicken broth if necessary.
4. How can I make the gravy spicier or more flavorful?
To add more spice or flavor to the gravy, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or paprika. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.