Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy chicken simmering in a rich, flavorful gravy, it’s an effortless meal that pleases the whole family. Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner that fits any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-Saving: This dish cooks itself in the crockpot, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it simmers.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ranch dressing mix and brown gravy creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles for a delightful twist.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a crockpot means fewer dishes to wash afterward—great for busy nights!
• Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers can be easily frozen, making future meals quick and hassle-free.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This is the star of the show! It cooks your chicken low and slow, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps you achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the gravy components.
• Forks: Essential for shredding cooked chicken effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Approximately 1.5 lbs)

For the Gravy Mixture

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 oz)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (1 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup sour cream

To Taste

• Salt
• Pepper

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley

How to Make Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your crockpot. Ensure they are evenly spaced for best cooking results.

Step 2: Mix the Gravy Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ranch dressing mix
2. Brown gravy mix
3. Chicken broth
4. Cream of chicken soup

Whisk until smooth and well-mixed.

Step 3: Combine with Chicken

Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure each piece is fully coated in the gravy.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Set your crockpot to low heat and cook for about 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the gravy until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Stir in sour cream to create an extra creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious chicken and gravy over rice or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color!

Step 8: Optional Add-Ins

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or garlic during cooking.

Step 9: Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this dish freezes well for future meals—making it perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a cozy dinner, here are some fantastic serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over fluffy white rice for a simple yet satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the gravy.

With Mashed Potatoes

• A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory chicken and gravy perfectly. The potatoes make for a deliciously hearty base.

On Biscuits

• For a twist, serve the chicken and gravy on warm, flaky biscuits. This makes for a comforting dish that is perfect for brunch or dinner.

In Tacos

• Use tortillas to wrap the shredded chicken and gravy mixture for tasty tacos. Top with fresh salsa or avocado for added flavor.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Balance out the richness of the dish by serving it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added color and nutrition.

As a Sandwich

• For a fun alternative, create sandwiches using bread or rolls. Add some lettuce or cheese for extra texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

To ensure your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality broth can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed to achieve your preferred flavor.
• Add vegetables: Consider including diced onions, carrots, or celery in the crockpot for added texture and nutrition.
• Opt for skinless chicken: Using skinless chicken breasts helps keep the dish lean while still providing tenderness when cooked low and slow.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking before shredding it. This helps retain its juices.
• Make ahead: Prepare this dish a day in advance; it tastes even better when reheated!

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious boost and bright color to your plate.

2. Garlic Bread
   Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra gravy left on your plate.

3. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy.

4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob offers a delightful pop of sweetness that complements savory dishes well.

5. Rice Pilaf
   Flavored rice pilaf adds depth to your meal with herbs and spices enhancing every bite.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent side option.

7. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad can add freshness to your meal while being packed with protein.

8. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy sweet potato mash provides sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory gravies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their chicken properly. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking time for juicy results.
• Neglecting to shred the chicken: Leaving the chicken whole can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Shred it in the gravy for a tastier meal.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key ingredient. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth for better flavor.
• Not garnishing: Skipping garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

It takes about 6 hours on low heat for the chicken to become tender and fully cooked.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low.

What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken And Gravy?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles—choose your favorite!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different sides or add-ins based on your preferences. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!