Articles, Recipes, Seafood

Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

 

Here’s a recipe for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy:

Ingredients:

  • 4 skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 ounce dry ranch salad dressing and seasoning mix
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can of cream of condensed chicken soup
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Place the skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of the Crock Pot in a single layer.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the dry ranch salad dressing and seasoning mix with the cream of condensed chicken soup until well combined.
  4. Pour the chicken soup mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning mix over the top of the chicken and soup mixture.
  6. Pour the water or chicken broth over the seasoning, ensuring it covers the chicken evenly.
  7. Replace the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for seven hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
  8. Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the Crock Pot.
  9. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy mixture until well combined.
  10. Serve the Crockpot Chicken & Gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and enjoy!

This simple and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and requires minimal effort to prepare. The tender chicken and rich gravy pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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

  1. Use Chicken Thighs: Consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and moist, making them ideal for slow cooking. They also hold up better to longer cooking times without drying out.
  2. Add Aromatics: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding aromatics such as chopped onions, minced garlic, or sliced mushrooms to the Crockpot along with the chicken. These ingredients will infuse the gravy with delicious flavor as they cook.
  3. Customize the Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor of the dish. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of ranch seasoning mix to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Use Homemade Ranch Seasoning: Consider making your own homemade ranch seasoning mix for a fresher and more flavorful option. You can control the ingredients and adjust the seasoning levels to your liking.
  5. Add Creaminess: For an even creamier gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of the cooking time. This will add richness and depth to the gravy without overpowering the other flavors.
  6. Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stirring it into the Crockpot during the last hour of cooking. This will help to thicken the gravy and give it a silky texture.
  7. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives before serving for a pop of freshness and color. This will add a bright and vibrant touch to the dish.
  8. Serve with Accompaniments: Serve the Crockpot Chicken & Gravy with your favorite accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. These side dishes will soak up the delicious gravy and complete the meal.
  9. Double the Recipe: If you have a larger Crockpot or need to feed a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger Crockpot to accommodate the additional ingredients.
  10. Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store the leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

By incorporating these tips, you can take your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy to the next level and create a dish that is even more flavorful and satisfying!

Here are some secrets to help you achieve perfection:

  1. Sear the Chicken: Before placing the chicken in the Crockpot, sear it in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious caramelized crust on the chicken, enhancing its overall taste.
  2. Use Bone-In Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Bone-in chicken adds flavor and moisture to the dish and prevents the meat from drying out during the long cooking process.
  3. Layer Flavors: Layer flavors by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices before adding it to the Crockpot. This ensures that the chicken is well-seasoned and flavorful throughout.
  4. Add Depth with Aromatics: Enhance the flavor of the gravy by adding aromatic vegetables such as onions, garlic, and celery to the Crockpot. These ingredients release their natural flavors during cooking, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
  5. Deglaze the Pan: After searing the chicken, deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen any browned bits from the bottom. Pour this flavorful liquid into the Crockpot to add richness and depth to the gravy.
  6. Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and condensed soup to control the saltiness of the dish. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences without the risk of over-salting.
  7. Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley add brightness and freshness to the dish. Add them to the Crockpot during the last hour of cooking for maximum flavor.
  8. Finish with Cream: For a creamier gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce without overwhelming the other flavors.
  9. Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
  10. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it using two forks directly in the Crockpot. This allows the chicken to absorb more of the flavorful gravy and ensures that every bite is delicious.

By following these secrets, you can achieve the perfect Crockpot Chicken & Gravy that is tender, flavorful, and comforting every time!

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and answers related to Crockpot Chicken & Gravy:

  1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. However, it’s recommended to thaw the chicken first for more even cooking.
  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs are often more flavorful and juicy, making them a great choice for slow cooking.
  3. Do I need to sear the chicken before adding it to the Crockpot? While it’s not necessary, searing the chicken before adding it to the Crockpot can enhance its flavor and texture by creating a caramelized crust.
  4. Can I use homemade gravy instead of condensed soup? Yes, you can use homemade gravy instead of condensed soup if you prefer. Simply adjust the seasoning to taste and pour it over the chicken in the Crockpot.
  5. How long should I cook the chicken in the Crockpot? Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until it is cooked through and tender. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
  6. Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot Chicken & Gravy? Yes, you can add vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery to the Crockpot for added flavor and nutrition. Simply place them in the Crockpot along with the chicken before cooking.
  7. How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin? If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the Crockpot during the last hour of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove some of the liquid and simmer it on the stovetop until thickened.
  8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Simply combine the ingredients in the Crockpot and cook according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready.
  9. What should I serve with Crockpot Chicken & Gravy? This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. The gravy is perfect for drizzling over the side dish of your choice.
  10. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, which can help you prepare and enjoy this delicious and comforting dish!