Introduction
There’s something so comforting about a warm, hearty meal that fills the kitchen with enticing aromas. This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can let your slow cooker do all the work while you spend time relaxing or tackling other chores. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy gravy served over fluffy rice or smooth mashed potatoes—pure comfort on a plate!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-7 hours 10 minutes or 3-4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly in the bottom of your crockpot. They’ll cook down beautifully and absorb all the savory flavors.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme. Stir until everything is well mixed, creating a luscious gravy base.
- Pour the delicious gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir it into the rich gravy until everything is nicely combined.
- Serve this delectable chicken and gravy mixture over warm cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the gravy mixture during the last half hour of cooking.
- Feel free to add some vegetables into the mix, such as carrots or peas, for added flavor and nutrition!
- This dish can be easily doubled if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe emphasizes the magic of slow cooking. The low and slow method allows the chicken to break down into tender, juicy pieces, while the flavors meld together, creating a rich gravy that’s perfect for soaking into your sides. It’s all about setting it and forgetting it, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal hands-on time.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- What can I serve this dish with? This chicken and gravy pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even biscuits for a delightful meal.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge overnight. Just add them to the crockpot in the morning to cook.
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that the whole family will love. With its rich flavors and cozy vibes, it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner lineup. So, grab your ingredients and let your slow cooker work its magic—dinner is just a few hours away!