Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about the aroma that wafts through your home when you’re making this crockpot chicken n gravy recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, especially on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it; I came home after a long day, and the smell hit me like a wave of comfort. The chicken turns out so tender it practically falls apart, swimming in a rich, savory gravy that just begs to be soaked up with mashed potatoes or rice. Trust me, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a little extra love in your life. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together! Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Make sure they’re trimmed of any excess fat for the best texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – This will give the gravy its creamy base and rich flavor.
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix – This adds a wonderful herby zing that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – I prefer low-sodium so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped onions – Fresh onions will add a nice depth of flavor; you can use yellow or white onions.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This will enhance the overall savory profile of the gravy.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season to your preference; a little pinch goes a long way!
How to Prepare the Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe
Getting started with this crockpot chicken n gravy recipe is a breeze! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, and I’m here to walk you through it step by step. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping this up on the regular!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Initial Preparation
First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot—this will be your flavorful base. Next, in a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, chopped onions, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir until everything’s nicely blended. This mix will create that luscious gravy we all love. Once it’s well combined, pour this mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper on top to taste; it really makes a difference!
Cooking Process
Now, cover your crockpot and set it to cook! If you’re short on time, you can go with the high setting for about 4-5 hours, but if you can wait, the low setting for 6-8 hours is where the magic happens. This longer cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and soak up all the savory flavors. When it’s done, shred the chicken right in the gravy—this will help it absorb even more flavor. Seriously, the smell will have your mouth watering!
Tips for Success with Your Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe
To really nail this crockpot chicken n gravy recipe, here are some of my favorite tips! First, consider using bone-in chicken for even richer flavor; just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, throw in some carrots or peas when you add the chicken—it’s a great way to boost nutrition and add color to your dish. Another pro tip is to thicken your gravy if you prefer a heartier sauce; just mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking. And don’t skimp on seasoning—taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for that perfect balance. Trust me, these little tweaks can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic!
Variations of the Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe
There’s so much room to play with this crockpot chicken n gravy recipe, and I absolutely love experimenting with different flavors! One of my favorite variations is to add some hearty vegetables. Toss in chopped carrots, peas, or even bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also switch up the spices—try adding a teaspoon of paprika or a dash of cayenne for a little kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using different soup bases like cream of mushroom for a unique twist. For a more herby flavor, fresh rosemary or thyme can elevate the dish beautifully. And if you love a tangy note, a splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten everything up. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your crockpot chicken n gravy ready, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it up! This dish is so versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that will soak up all that delicious gravy. My absolute favorite is a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes—there’s nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken and creamy potatoes, all drizzled with that rich gravy. You can also serve it over a bed of rice for a slightly lighter option; the grains will soak up all those savory flavors beautifully.
If you want to add some color and crunch, consider a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. It balances out the richness of the chicken and gravy perfectly! Another great option is steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans—these not only add nutrition but also a nice fresh contrast. And if you’re feeling indulgent, buttery corn on the cob is a delightful accompaniment that complements the dish so well.
For a complete comfort meal, you can even serve some warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side, perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy. Trust me, whatever you choose to serve with your crockpot chicken n gravy, it’s bound to be a hit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious crockpot chicken n gravy, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasting their best. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing it in portions; just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.
When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. Just be cautious not to overheat, as that can dry out the chicken. Enjoy every savory bite!
Nutritional Information for Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delightful crockpot chicken n gravy recipe:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But regardless, this dish is a satisfying way to enjoy a hearty meal while still keeping an eye on your nutrition. Enjoy your delicious creation with peace of mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot, but just be aware that it may increase the cooking time. If you’re using frozen chicken, aim for the high setting and cook for about 6-7 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.
What can I do if my gravy is too thin?
If you find that your gravy is thinner than you’d like, no worries! You can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the gravy during the last hour of cooking, and it should thicken up nicely!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! This crockpot chicken n gravy recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in the crockpot, refrigerate it overnight, and then cook it the next day. Just remember to add some extra cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What sides work best with crockpot chicken n gravy?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta! You can also serve it alongside steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the gravy. It’s all about what you love!
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the chicken and gravy cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, check out this article. For tips on cooking with a crockpot, visit Food Network.
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Crockpot Chicken n Gravy Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe delivers tender chicken with a rich, savory gravy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, onions, and garlic powder.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the gravy.
- Serve over rice or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
- Use bone-in chicken for a richer flavor.
- Thicken gravy with cornstarch if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken n gravy recipe
