It’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of savory Crockpot Chicken and Gravy wafts through your home, casting a cozy spell that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Picture this: tender chicken, bathed in a luscious gravy that’s rich enough to make even the pickiest eater weak at the knees. Each bite is a delightful experience, perfectly seasoned and comfortingly familiar—like a warm hug on a cold night.
Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this dish. My family gathered around the dinner table, their eyes wide with curiosity as we lifted the lid off the crockpot. The look on their faces was priceless when they inhaled that heavenly scent! It quickly became our go-to recipe for family gatherings and cozy nights in. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone loves it! For more inspiration, check out this more dinner ideas recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor
- The comforting aroma fills your home, making it feel inviting
- Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice or mashed potatoes
- The visually appealing gravy adds a gourmet touch without extra effort
I remember one particular Sunday when I decided to whip up this dish for my parents’ visit. They practically swooned over each mouthful, declaring it better than anything they’d ever had at a restaurant. It was like winning an Oscar for Best Daughter!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add depth to your gravy.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while ensuring rich flavor.
- Gravy Mix: A packet of your favorite gravy mix will make things easier; just follow package instructions.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These spices elevate the dish with robust flavors while being easy to measure.
- Black Pepper and Salt: Seasoning is key—use as much as your taste buds desire!
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream or Sour Cream: Adding cream enriches the gravy; choose based on your preference for richness.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at serving adds color and freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels before seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder evenly over them for flavor enhancement.
Pour in the Broth and Gravy Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth with gravy mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well covered.
Set Your Crockpot Temperature: Cover your crockpot with its lid securely. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours—your choice depending on how hungry you are!
Check Doneness and Texture: About 30 minutes before serving, check if the chicken shreds easily with a fork. If not, give it more time!
Add Cream or Sour Cream Last Minute: Stir in heavy cream or sour cream right before serving for indulgent richness; let it heat through briefly.
Now you have a hearty meal ready to serve! Pair this delectable dish with fluffy mashed potatoes or some warm bread to soak up that irresistible gravy. Your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making your mouth water long before it’s ready
- With its tender texture and savory flavor, this dish is perfect for any dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken well and searing it briefly in a pan to enhance the flavors. Then, layer it in the crockpot with gravy ingredients and let it cook low and slow for perfect tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out seasonings based on your preference or add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to make it a complete meal. A splash of white wine can elevate the flavors beautifully too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until hot, adding a bit of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs for vibrant flavors; dried herbs can work but lack freshness
- For extra creaminess, stir in sour cream right before serving
- A dash of hot sauce adds a delightful kick without overwhelming the dish
Cooking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would ask for seconds. I still hear my aunt laughing as she said she’d be happy to take home what was left!
FAQ
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Mashed potatoes or rice are great companions to soak up the delicious gravy.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but cooking time will need to be increased.
How long does it take to cook in a crockpot?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until tender and cooked through.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. With tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory gravy, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Let the irresistible aroma fill your home as you enjoy the warm flavors that come together effortlessly in your crockpot. Serve it with fluffy mashed potatoes or rice for a satisfying experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) gravy mix
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place seasoned chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder evenly over the chicken.
- In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth and gravy mix until smooth. Pour over the chicken ensuring it's well covered.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Before serving, shred the chicken with a fork and stir in heavy cream or sour cream for added richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg