Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

This easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a comforting meal with minimal effort. The tender chicken stews in a rich, creamy gravy, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Simply toss in the ingredients, set your crockpot, and let it do the work while you enjoy your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices and creamy gravy creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta for a delightful twist.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using a crockpot means fewer dishes to wash after dinner, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Comforting Meal: This dish delivers the warmth of home-cooked comfort food without the fuss.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Skillet (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for seasoning to achieve the best flavor balance.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients together smoothly, especially when mixing the broth and soup.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

For the Gravy

• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

For Thickening

• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

Optional Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Season the Chicken

First, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure all surfaces are coated well to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil if using. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor but is not necessary if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Place in Crockpot

Transfer the seasoned or seared chicken into your slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and dried thyme if using. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 5: Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

About 30 minutes before serving, combine cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the crockpot to thicken up your gravy.

Step 7: Shred or Keep Whole

Once cooked, you can choose to shred the chicken with two forks or serve it whole based on your preference.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy this comforting dish over rice or mashed potatoes!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Serving crockpot chicken and gravy is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that complement the rich, creamy gravy. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

With Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: Serve your chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy white rice for a satisfying meal.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and additional fiber.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes makes them perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add a hint of garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

On a Bed of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.

With Bread Options

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the gravy and soaking up every bit of flavor.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are another great option to enjoy with this hearty meal.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

To make sure your crockpot chicken and gravy turns out just right, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasonings like garlic powder or paprika. They add depth to your dish.
• Sear the chicken: Browning the chicken before adding it to the crockpot enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Use quality broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness while still getting rich flavor.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch mixed with water in the last half hour of cooking.
• Add vegetables: For added nutrition, throw in vegetables like carrots or peas in the last hour of cooking.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only enhances appearance but also adds a fresh taste.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Complement your crockpot chicken and gravy with these tasty side dishes that enhance your meal experience:

1. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and crunch, making them an ideal side.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with savory dishes and is easy to prepare.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides freshness that balances the richness of the gravy.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad offers a nutritious option packed with protein.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory flavors—roast until tender!
6. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, it’s creamy and flavorful when seasoned right.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Adds elegance to your plate while providing vitamins; grill until slightly charred.
8. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can be a refreshing side that complements the warmth of chicken and gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking with a crockpot can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken before cooking for enhanced taste.
• Overcrowding the crockpot: Adding too much chicken at once can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for optimal results.
• Not using enough liquid: A dry dish occurs when there isn’t enough broth or sauce. Ensure sufficient liquid in your recipe for moist chicken and gravy.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on the wrong setting or for incorrect durations can affect tenderness. Always follow recommended cook times for best results.
• Failing to thicken the gravy: Overlooking the cornstarch step may leave you with a runny gravy. Mix cornstarch and water together before adding it to the pot for proper thickening.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy that might help you out!

How do I make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy from scratch?

To make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy from scratch, season your chicken, add broth and cream of chicken soup, then slow-cook until tender.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about an hour when using a crockpot.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables make excellent sides that complement the rich flavors of this dish.

How do I customize my Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas during cooking or swap out seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it easily by adding different herbs or vegetables based on what you have at home. Enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week!