Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a delicious home-cooked meal that practically cooks itself, doesn’t it? This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is exactly that—effortless and heartwarming. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken that simmers all day in a rich and creamy gravy, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. It’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss. Let’s dive into how to make this soul-soothing dish!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the foundation of your savory dish!
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and you have a creamy mixture.
- Pour this delightful mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are well coated. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken.
- Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and beautifully tender.
- Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken using two forks, and stir it back into the luscious gravy. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Serve this delicious chicken and gravy over a bed of warm cooked rice or fluffy mashed potatoes. Enjoy the comforting taste with every bite!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish! You can add your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor. For a little kick, consider stirring in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. And don’t forget, leftovers make for a fantastic lunch the next day!
Cooking Techniques
Crockpot cooking allows for a hands-off approach while still producing deeply flavored, tender meals. The key is in the seasoning and letting the ingredients meld together over time. Using a combination of dried spices and creamy soups can elevate the dish without requiring hours of slaving over the stove.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook them on high for the full 4 hours to ensure they’re safe and cooked through.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken and gravy are great in sandwiches, on top of salads, or even mixed with pasta for a quick meal!
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before, store it in the fridge, and then pop it in the crockpot in the morning!
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl that brings the family together. With minimal prep and a rich flavor that fills the air, it’s perfect for those days when you want comfort food without the hassle. Try it out, share it with your loved ones, and watch them savor every delicious bite!