Name: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast; 2 tsp pepper; 2 tsp paprika; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp thyme; 10 oz cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp flour; 1 cup milk

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

If you’re a busy professional juggling work, social life, and perhaps even a side hustle, you know how challenging it can be to prepare wholesome dinners. Enter Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, your new kitchen ally! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it up in your slow cooker and forget about it — allowing you to focus on your responsibilities.

The beauty of using a crockpot lies in its ability to tenderize meat effortlessly and meld flavors beautifully. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, cooking with a slow cooker can help retain the nutritional value of your ingredients, ensuring you get a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine coming home after a long day, only to find a warm, savory chicken dish waiting for you. It’s like a comforting hug in a bowl!

You may wonder, “How can I make this dish my own?” The good news is that it can easily be tailored to your tastes. Whether you want to add veggies, switch up the seasonings, or serve it over rice instead of mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless! Now, let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Essential ingredients for a delicious meal

Creating a comforting dish like Crockpot Chicken and Gravy starts with a few fundamental ingredients that work together to deliver incredible flavor. Here’s what you need:

2 lbs chicken breast: The backbone of this dish, tender chicken breast absorbs the gravy beautifully as it cooks.
Spices: Seasonings like 2 teaspoon each of pepper, paprika, and garlic powder add depth, while 1 teaspoon each of oregano and thyme lends a warm, aromatic touch.
10 oz can cream of chicken soup: This creamy base not only brings richness but also acts as a flavor enhancer.
½ cup chicken broth: A perfect addition to keep everything moist and add savory notes.
1 tablespoon flour: This helps thicken the gravy, ensuring it coats your chicken perfectly.
1 cup milk: To finish off the dish with a creamy texture.

Alternative ingredients for customization

Want to make this dish your own? Consider swapping out ingredients or adding extras for a unique twist! For instance:

Instead of chicken breast, try using boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk can substitute regular milk.
Add in some vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color.
A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can deepen the savory character of the gravy.

Experimenting with these ingredients can help you create a Crockpot Chicken and Gravy tailored to your taste preferences! For more recipe inspiration, check out Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Step-by-step preparation of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, especially after a long day at work. But it doesn't have to be! With this simple Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe, you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Let’s dive into the preparation steps.

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have everything on hand. For this recipe, you’ll need:

2 lbs chicken breast (boneless and skinless works best)
Spices: 2 teaspoon each of pepper, paprika, and garlic powder; 1 teaspoon each of oregano and thyme
10 oz can of cream of chicken soup
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk

Start by measuring all your ingredients. This not only helps keep the cooking process organized but ensures you don’t forget anything crucial. A quick tip: having all your spices laid out can also make it a fun way to get into the cooking mood, don’t you think?

Season and layer the chicken

Now it’s time to give your chicken some love! Season your chicken breasts on both sides with the pepper, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme. This step is essential because it builds flavor right from the start. Next, place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker. Top it off with the can of cream of chicken soup — this will create a wonderfully rich base for your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

Make the creamy gravy mixture

In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon flour into ½ cup of chicken broth until it's smooth. This slurry will help thicken your gravy. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. The combination of the soup and broth will soon create a velvety gravy that’s simply irresistible!

Set your crockpot and wait

Now for the best part: set your crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours. While you wait, you could catch up on your favorite series, read a book, or even tackle that pile of laundry. The beauty of slow cooking is that it practically takes care of itself!

Shred chicken and add milk

Once the cooking time is up, the chicken should be super tender and easy to shred. Take two forks and pull the chicken apart right in the crockpot. Next, stir in 1 cup of milk to create a creamy consistency. Let it cook for another 20 minutes, giving all those flavors a chance to mingle.

When you’re ready to serve, don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a warm and satisfying dinner. Enjoy your time-saved, flavor-packed meal; who knew cooking could be this easy? Want more crockpot inspiration? Check out some top-rated recipes at Allrecipes for additional ideas!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a versatile dish that can easily be tailored to suit your tastes. Here are a couple of variations that can add excitement to your dinner routine!

Chicken and Gravy with Vegetables

Elevate your dish by incorporating veggies. Add chopped carrots, peas, or potatoes to the crockpot before cooking. These nutrient-rich ingredients not only enhance flavor but also create a more balanced meal. Plus, they soak up the delicious gravy!

Spicy Chicken Gravy Variations

If you're craving heat, a spicy twist on your crockpot chicken is a perfect option. Mix in a dash of hot sauce or a spoonful of diced jalapeños to the gravy. For something bolder, consider adding buffalo sauce or Sriracha. This will turn your comforting Crockpot Chicken and Gravy into a flavorful feast that packs a punch.

For even more culinary inspiration, check out these great ideas for slow cooker meals.

Cooking tips and notes for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Practical tips for perfect results

To achieve tender and flavorful Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, always season your chicken properly before starting. A mix of spices like pepper, paprika, and garlic powder gives a delightful punch. If you have the time, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot; this step adds extra depth to the flavor. For a richer gravy, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust to your preference. Don't forget to stir in the milk at the end for creaminess!

Storage and reheating tips

After enjoying your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, or use the microwave in short intervals. If you find the gravy thickened too much while stored, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Just remember to label them!

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Recommended Side Dishes

Pair your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with comforting sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up the gravy perfectly.
Rice: White or brown rice can serve as a great base, absorbing the savory sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add color and nutrition.
Biscuit or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy.

Creative Serving Ideas

Elevate your dining experience by serving Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in unique ways:

Stuffed Peppers: Mix shredded chicken with quinoa or rice and fill halved bell peppers for a fun twist.
Casserole: Layer chicken and gravy over a bed of noodles or vegetables, bake, and enjoy a homestyle casserole.
Wraps: Use tortillas or lettuce leaves for a tasty handheld meal.
Savory Poutine: Top fries with chicken, gravy, and cheese curds for a delightful fusion dish.

These ideas not only enhance your meal but also leave room for creativity!

Time breakdown for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Preparation time
This dish requires just 5 minutes of prep. Simply season your chicken, add the ingredients to your crockpot, and you’re almost done. Perfect for those busy weeknights!

Cooking time
Let your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy work its magic for 2 to 6 hours on low, tenderizing the chicken and blending those delightful flavors.

Total time
In total, you're looking at about 2 to 6 hours for the entire process—most of which is hands-off. Perfect for setting and forgetting while you tackle your day! For more time-saving cooking tips, check out these kitchen hacks. It’s all about making your life easier!

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

When you're whipping up a comforting dish like Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, it's important to understand what’s on your plate. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

One serving of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy contains approximately 320 calories. This makes it a hearty and satisfying meal without going overboard on your daily intake.

Protein

Packed with protein, this recipe offers about 30 grams per serving. Perfect for post-workout recovery or simply keeping you full throughout your busy day.

Sodium

While this dish is flavorful, it does contain around 800 mg of sodium per serving. For those watching their sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to reduce this number.

If you're interested in further nutritional insights, the USDA FoodData Central is a great resource. It provides detailed information on individual ingredients and their contributions to your health goals. By making a few simple tweaks, you can customize Crockpot Chicken and Gravy to suit your dietary needs without sacrificing taste!

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great option if you’re short on time. Just make sure to cook it on low for about 6-8 hours instead of the usual 4-6 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and infuse into the delicious gravy. For extra flavor, consider seasoning your chicken before freezing it!

How can I thicken the gravy?

If you find your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy needs a little boosting in thickness, here are a couple of options:

Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of water, then stir it into the gravy and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Flour: Simply whisk in more flour to your mixture while cooking. Gradually adding a little at a time helps you achieve your desired consistency without clumps.

What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs beautifully with several sides! Consider serving it over:

Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice!
Rice: Perfect for soaking up the gravy.
Steamed Vegetables: For a healthy balance.
You can find more side dish ideas here.

Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dinner option that blends simplicity with delicious flavors. By using your slow cooker, you get tender chicken and a rich gravy with minimal effort. Enjoy this dish over mashed potatoes or rice, and watch your loved ones gather around for seconds!