Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
2 packets chicken gravy mix
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can of water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
3 whole chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (about a pound)
1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Place them in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together water, gravy packets, and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours (4.5 hours worked for the author).
Once done, carefully remove chicken and shred or cut as desired.
Whisk sour cream into the slow cooker until smooth.
Serve the creamy gravy over the chicken and season with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, stove-top stuffing, or egg noodles.
Enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken and gravy!
Here are some tips to enhance your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
- Brown the Chicken: For added flavor, consider browning the seasoned chicken in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This step can help develop a richer taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the gravy mixture before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper if needed.
- Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor. Add them in the beginning or during the last hour of cooking.
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like carrots, onions, or celery to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal. These will absorb the flavors of the gravy and complement the chicken.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low for a longer period can result in more tender and flavorful chicken. If you have the time, opt for the longer cooking duration.
- Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Thighs tend to be more forgiving and stay moist during extended cooking times.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispy skin on your chicken, broil it in the oven for a few minutes after shredding or cutting. This will add a nice texture contrast.
- Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Double the Recipe: If you have a larger slow cooker, consider doubling the recipe to have leftovers. The flavors often intensify when reheated.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences!
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
- It’s generally not recommended to use frozen chicken directly in a slow cooker, as it may not reach a safe temperature quickly enough. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Thighs are often more forgiving in slow cooking and can result in a more flavorful and tender dish.
- How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
- Cooking on low for a longer period of time and ensuring the chicken is covered with the gravy mixture can help prevent it from drying out. You can also use chicken thighs, which tend to stay moist.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the seasoning and gravy mixture in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the chicken in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and gravy. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they should be good for about 2-3 months.
- What sides pair well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
- This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, stove-top stuffing, or egg noodles. Choose your favorite side for a complete meal.
- How can I thicken the gravy?
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Can I use a different type of soup?
- Yes, you can experiment with different cream soups, such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery, to add variety to the flavor.
- What size slow cooker should I use?
- A 4-6 quart slow cooker is typically suitable for this recipe. Adjust the quantities if you have a larger or smaller slow cooker.
- Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
- Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, onions, or celery for added flavor. Ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Feel free to tailor the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs!
