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Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

 

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Looking for an easy and delicious meal idea perfect for those busy weeknights? This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Tender chicken is slow-cooked in a rich, creamy gravy that’s perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet dry chicken gravy mix
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
  2. Make the Gravy:
    • In a separate bowl, combine the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully covered.
    • Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Shred the Chicken:
    • Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy until well combined.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the chicken and gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish for a comforting and hearty meal.

Nutrition Information:

  • Calories: 250 per serving
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 8g
  • Fat: 10g

Enjoy:

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, creamy gravy. It’s a dish the whole family will love, and it’s perfect for those nights when you need a meal that’s both easy and satisfying.

Here are some helpful tips to make your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy even more delightful and flavorful:

1. Sear the Chicken First:

  • Tip: For added flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with a little oil before placing them in the crockpot. This caramelizes the outside of the chicken and adds a deeper, richer flavor to the dish.

2. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Moisture:

  • Tip: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Thighs are more forgiving in slow-cooking and remain tender and juicy.

3. Add Fresh Herbs:

  • Tip: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the crockpot. These herbs will infuse the gravy with a fragrant, earthy flavor.

4. Incorporate Garlic:

  • Tip: Add a couple of minced garlic cloves to the gravy mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic complements the richness of the gravy and adds depth.

5. Use Chicken Broth Instead of Water:

  • Tip: Replace the water with low-sodium chicken broth for a more flavorful gravy. The broth adds richness and enhances the chicken flavor.

6. Include Vegetables:

  • Tip: Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the crockpot. These vegetables will cook down and add flavor to the gravy while making the dish more hearty.

7. Thicken the Gravy:

  • Tip: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

8. Add a Touch of Cream:

  • Tip: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy and luxurious gravy.

9. Season in Layers:

  • Tip: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices (like paprika or garlic powder) before placing it in the crockpot. This helps build layers of flavor.

10. Finish with Fresh Parsley:

  • Tip: Garnish the finished dish with fresh chopped parsley. It adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that balances the rich flavors.

11. Serve with a Flavorful Side:

  • Tip: Serve the chicken and gravy over a flavorful base like garlic mashed potatoes, herbed rice, or buttered egg noodles to complement the richness of the dish.

12. Make It Spicy:

  • Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture if you like a bit of heat in your dish.

13. Try a Different Gravy Mix:

  • Tip: Experiment with different flavors of gravy mix, such as turkey or mushroom gravy, to give the dish a new twist.

14. Add a Splash of White Wine:

  • Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the gravy mixture. The wine adds a subtle acidity that balances the richness.

15. Layer with Bacon:

  • Tip: Place a few strips of cooked bacon on top of the chicken before adding the gravy. The bacon will add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy gravy.

16. Use Low-Sodium Ingredients:

  • Tip: Use low-sodium gravy mix and cream of chicken soup to control the salt content, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your preference.

17. Add a Touch of Dijon Mustard:

  • Tip: Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the gravy mixture. It adds a tangy depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

18. Include Mushrooms:

  • Tip: Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and gravy.

19. Cook on Low for Best Results:

  • Tip: Whenever possible, cook on the low setting. Slow-cooking at a lower temperature allows the chicken to become more tender and flavorful.

20. Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon:

  • Tip: Just before serving, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken and gravy. The acidity brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the dish.

These tips will help you elevate your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, making it even more flavorful, rich, and satisfying!

Here are 40 secrets to help you achieve the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

1. Use High-Quality Chicken:

  • Secret: Choose fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and texture.

2. Sear the Chicken First:

  • Secret: Sear the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This step locks in moisture and adds a deeper, caramelized flavor to the dish.

3. Season the Chicken Well:

  • Secret: Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and other favorite spices before cooking. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful throughout.

4. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Moisture:

  • Secret: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result.

5. Add Fresh Herbs:

  • Secret: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage into the crockpot. These herbs infuse the gravy with aromatic flavors.

6. Incorporate Garlic:

  • Secret: Add a couple of minced garlic cloves to the gravy mixture for an extra layer of depth and richness.

7. Use Low-Sodium Ingredients:

  • Secret: Use low-sodium chicken broth and gravy mix to control the salt content. You can always adjust the seasoning later.

8. Try Homemade Gravy Mix:

  • Secret: Make your own gravy mix using flour, chicken bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and other spices. This allows for complete control over flavor and ingredients.

9. Include Vegetables:

  • Secret: Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the crockpot. These vegetables add flavor to the gravy and make the dish heartier.

10. Use Chicken Broth Instead of Water:

  • Secret: Replace the water in the recipe with chicken broth to create a richer, more flavorful gravy.

11. Deglaze the Pan:

  • Secret: After searing the chicken, deglaze the skillet with a little chicken broth or white wine, scraping up the browned bits. Add this to the crockpot for extra flavor.

12. Add a Touch of Cream:

  • Secret: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy and luxurious gravy.

13. Layer Flavors:

  • Secret: Season the chicken, gravy mixture, and any added vegetables in layers to build a more complex and well-rounded flavor profile.

14. Cook on Low for Best Results:

  • Secret: Cook the chicken on the low setting for the full 6-8 hours. Slow-cooking at a lower temperature allows the chicken to become more tender and flavorful.

15. Add Mushrooms:

  • Secret: Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for an earthy, savory flavor that complements the chicken and gravy.

16. Use a Slurry to Thicken the Gravy:

  • Secret: If the gravy is too thin, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it.

17. Finish with Fresh Parsley:

  • Secret: Garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor.

18. Avoid Lifting the Lid:

  • Secret: Resist the temptation to lift the crockpot lid during cooking. Each time the lid is lifted, heat escapes, extending the cooking time.

19. Use Unsalted Butter:

  • Secret: If adding butter, use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. You can adjust seasoning at the end.

20. Experiment with Different Gravy Mixes:

  • Secret: Try different gravy mixes, such as turkey or mushroom, to give the dish a unique twist.

21. Make it Spicy:

  • Secret: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture if you like a bit of heat in your dish.

22. Incorporate Dijon Mustard:

  • Secret: Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy for a tangy depth of flavor that balances the richness.

23. Use a Meat Thermometer:

  • Secret: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing it’s safe to eat and perfectly done.

24. Add a Splash of White Wine:

  • Secret: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the gravy mixture. The wine adds a subtle acidity that enhances the overall dish.

25. Include a Bay Leaf:

  • Secret: Add a bay leaf to the crockpot for a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the chicken and gravy.

26. Layer with Bacon:

  • Secret: Place a few strips of cooked bacon on top of the chicken before adding the gravy. The bacon will add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy gravy.

27. Use a Liner for Easy Cleanup:

  • Secret: Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier. The liner prevents the gravy from sticking to the sides, making it simple to clean up afterward.

28. Add a Touch of Lemon:

  • Secret: Just before serving, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken and gravy. The acidity brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the dish.

29. Make it Gluten-Free:

  • Secret: Use a gluten-free gravy mix and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

30. Incorporate Sour Cream:

  • Secret: Stir in a dollop of sour cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a tangy, creamy twist on the gravy.

31. Shred the Chicken for Even Distribution:

  • Secret: Shred the chicken in the gravy before serving to ensure that every bite is coated in the rich, flavorful sauce.

32. Add a Dash of Worcestershire Sauce:

  • Secret: A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the gravy adds a savory umami flavor that deepens the overall taste.

33. Serve with a Variety of Sides:

  • Secret: Serve the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles. These bases soak up the gravy and make the meal more filling.

34. Use Freshly Ground Pepper:

  • Secret: Use freshly ground black pepper for a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.

35. Avoid Overcooking:

  • Secret: Monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken, which can become dry even in a slow cooker. Check for doneness at the minimum cooking time.

36. Include a Splash of Soy Sauce:

  • Secret: For an umami boost, add a splash of soy sauce to the gravy. This adds depth and enhances the savory notes of the dish.

37. Use Full-Fat Ingredients:

  • Secret: Opt for full-fat cream of chicken soup and dairy to achieve the richest, creamiest gravy.

38. Layer with Onions:

  • Secret: Place a layer of thinly sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. The onions will cook down and add a sweet, caramelized flavor to the gravy.

39. Stir in Baby Spinach:

  • Secret: Add a handful of baby spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and a boost of nutrients.

40. Make it a Casserole:

  • Secret: For a heartier meal, add cooked rice or potatoes to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. This turns the dish into a complete one-pot meal.

These secrets will help you create the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, ensuring it’s flavorful, rich, and perfectly cooked every time

Here are 40 popular questions and their answers related to Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

1. What type of chicken should I use for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

  • Answer: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.

2. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

  • Answer: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, cooking time may need to be adjusted, and it’s recommended to thaw chicken before slow cooking for even cooking.

3. How long should I cook Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

  • Answer: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on the thickness of the chicken and your crockpot’s settings.

4. Do I need to sear the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?

  • Answer: Searing is optional. It adds extra flavor and texture but is not necessary for the recipe to be successful.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

  • Answer: Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent option and will result in a juicier dish.

6. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

  • Answer: You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a homemade version using a roux with chicken broth and milk.

7. Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the chicken?

  • Answer: Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery can enhance the flavor and make the dish more nutritious.

8. How do I thicken the gravy?

  • Answer: If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cooking for an additional 15-30 minutes.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

  • Answer: Yes, use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative and substitute water or a dairy-free milk for any cream or milk used in the recipe.

10. What can I use instead of chicken gravy mix?

  • Answer: You can make your own mix using chicken bouillon, flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and other spices, or use turkey or brown gravy mix.

11. Do I need to add water or broth to the crockpot?

  • Answer: Yes, adding water or chicken broth helps create the gravy and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

12. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

  • Answer: Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop over low heat, covered, until the chicken is tender and cooked through, typically about 1-2 hours.

13. What sides go well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

  • Answer: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

14. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

  • Answer: Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

15. How do I store leftovers?

  • Answer: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

16. Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

  • Answer: Yes, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

17. How do I reheat leftovers?

  • Answer: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin the gravy.

18. Can I add cream or milk to the gravy?

  • Answer: Yes, adding a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking will make the gravy richer and creamier.

19. What seasonings can I add to enhance the flavor?

  • Answer: You can add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf for extra flavor.

20. Is it okay to cook this recipe on high instead of low?

  • Answer: Yes, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is fine, but the chicken may be slightly less tender than when cooked on low.

21. Can I use a different type of meat?

  • Answer: Yes, pork chops or turkey breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken.

22. Do I need to stir the contents during cooking?

  • Answer: No, stirring is not necessary, but you can do so if you want to ensure even distribution of the gravy.

23. Can I double the recipe?

  • Answer: Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

24. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  • Answer: Yes, use gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup, and ensure any other ingredients are gluten-free.

25. How can I reduce the sodium content?

  • Answer: Use low-sodium gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth, and adjust seasoning at the end if needed.

26. What type of crockpot works best for this recipe?

  • Answer: A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe, but any size that comfortably fits the ingredients will do.

27. Can I use instant gravy instead of a packet mix?

  • Answer: Yes, instant gravy can be used, but you may need to adjust the water or broth to get the right consistency.

28. Should I use fresh or dried herbs?

  • Answer: Both work well. Fresh herbs will have a brighter flavor, while dried herbs are more concentrated and should be used sparingly.

29. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

  • Answer: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

30. Can I add cheese to this dish?

  • Answer: Yes, adding shredded cheese at the end of cooking or on top before serving adds a creamy, cheesy element.

31. How can I make the dish more flavorful?

  • Answer: Searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot, using homemade gravy mix, and adding fresh herbs can enhance the flavor.

32. What can I do if the gravy is too thick?

  • Answer: If the gravy is too thick, thin it with a little more chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.

33. What can I do if the gravy is too thin?

  • Answer: Thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry or let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce and thicken.

34. Can I add bacon to this recipe?

  • Answer: Yes, cooked bacon can be added to the crockpot or sprinkled on top before serving for added flavor.

35. Can I add wine to the gravy?

  • Answer: Yes, a splash of white wine can be added to the gravy for extra depth of flavor.

36. What type of broth should I use?

  • Answer: Chicken broth is ideal, but vegetable or turkey broth can also be used depending on your preference.

37. Can I use a crockpot liner?

  • Answer: Yes, using a crockpot liner makes cleanup easier and does not affect the cooking process.

38. How can I make the chicken more tender?

  • Answer: Cooking on low heat for a longer time and using chicken thighs instead of breasts will result in more tender chicken.

39. Can I make this recipe spicy?

  • Answer: Yes, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to spice up the dish.

40. Can I serve this dish cold?

  • Answer: While it’s best served warm, you can serve the shredded chicken cold in sandwiches or salads if preferred.

These questions and answers cover various aspects of preparing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, ensuring you get the most out of this comforting and delicious dish!