Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken in Gravy
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about a pound)
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can water (use the soup can for measuring)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Prepare Gravy Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk together water, chicken gravy mix, and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
- Pour Mixture Over Chicken:
- Pour the gravy mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours (adjust according to your slow cooker’s settings). Check at the 4.5-hour mark to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred or Cut Chicken:
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred or cut it into your desired size.
- Creamy Finish:
- Whisk the sour cream into the slow cooker until the mixture is smooth. Return the shredded/cut chicken to the slow cooker and stir until it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce.
- Season to Taste:
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, stove-top stuffing, or egg noodles.
Here are some tips to make the Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken in Gravy even more delicious:
- Searing the Chicken:
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider searing the seasoned chicken breasts in a hot skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. Searing helps to lock in the juices and enhances the overall taste.
- Use Homemade Gravy:
- While using packaged gravy mix is convenient, you can elevate the dish by making your own gravy from scratch. Use pan drippings from searing the chicken, chicken broth, and flour to create a rich and flavorful gravy.
- Add Vegetables:
- Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions to the slow cooker. These vegetables will absorb the delicious flavors of the gravy and complement the chicken.
- Fresh Herbs:
- Consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a burst of freshness. Add them towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their flavors.
- Low and Slow Cooking:
- While the recipe suggests cooking for 4-5 hours on low, you can extend the cooking time to 6-7 hours for an even more tender and flavorful result. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become incredibly tender.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasonings if needed. Everyone’s taste preferences vary, so feel free to add more garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper to suit your liking.
- Creamy Texture:
- To ensure a smooth and creamy texture, whisk the sour cream separately before adding it to the slow cooker. This prevents any lumps from forming and ensures an even distribution of creaminess.
- Garnish Before Serving:
- Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika just before serving. This adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with Complementary Sides:
- Pair the creamy chicken with sides that complement the dish well, such as buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles.
- Make it Ahead:
- Prepare the seasoned chicken and gravy mixture the night before and refrigerate them separately. In the morning, simply combine the two in the slow cooker for an easy and time-saving meal.
Experiment with these tips to customize the Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken in Gravy according to your preferences and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? A: It’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons. Starting with frozen chicken may result in uneven cooking, potentially leaving parts undercooked.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat, like thighs or drumsticks? A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, and it’s essential to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches a safe level.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop or oven cooking. For the stovetop, simmer the chicken in a covered pot on low heat. In the oven, use a covered baking dish at a low temperature.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd? A: Yes, you can double or adjust the quantities based on your needs. Ensure that your slow cooker can accommodate the larger volume and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover creamy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze the Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken in Gravy? A: While you can freeze it, keep in mind that dairy-based sauces (like sour cream) may have a different texture after thawing. Consider freezing the chicken without the sour cream and adding it when you reheat.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish? A: Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even crusty bread are excellent choices. Vegetables like green beans or a side salad can also complement the dish.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to the slow cooker? A: Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or onions for added flavor. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and add them at the beginning of the cooking time.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a slightly tangier flavor. Make sure to add it at the end and stir well.
Q: Can I make this recipe with a low-sodium option? A: Certainly! Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of chicken gravy mix and cream of chicken soup to reduce the overall sodium content.
Remember to adjust cooking times and ingredient proportions based on any changes you make to the recipe
