As the evening sun begins to set, I find myself yearning for one of those meals that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Enter my Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy—a dish that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven with its intoxicating aroma of savory chicken and rich, creamy gravy. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmering away while you go about your day—only returning when it’s time to savor a delicious meal without the fuss.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining friends, this recipe is all about the comforting feeling of home-cooked goodness with minimal effort. In just a few minutes of prep, you can kick back and let your crockpot work its magic, allowing you to enjoy precious moments with family while dinner practically cooks itself. What’s even better? It’s easily customizable; throw in some mushrooms or onions for an extra layer of flavor. Join me on this culinary adventure and discover how to fill your table with heartwarming comfort!
Why is Crockpot Chicken and Gravy a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few minutes of prep, this recipe practically cooks itself, making it ideal for even the busiest days.
Irresistible aroma: As it simmers, your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering scent that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner.
Customizable flair: Feel free to add mushrooms, onions, or other veggies to create your own unique twist that suits your family’s taste.
Crowd-pleasing dish: Perfect for gatherings, this meal’s comfort food vibe appeals to everyone from kids to adults.
Hearty satisfaction: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles, and you have a fulfilling meal ready to please your guests.
Meal prep friendly: Assemble everything the night before, pop it in the fridge, and simply turn on the crockpot when you’re ready to cook!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken for ease and tenderness in your dish.
For the Gravy
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Serves as the creamy base, adding rich flavor; swap with homemade or other canned soups if preferred.
• Ranch Dressing Mix – Provides a tangy kick; you can substitute with a homemade ranch seasoning for a personal touch.
• Chicken Broth – Creates moisture and boosts flavor; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses aromatic depth; fresh minced garlic can offer an even bolder taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a bit of spice; adjust to your taste preference for that perfect kick.
Optional Vegetables
• Mushrooms – Introduce earthy notes and texture; use fresh or canned according to availability.
• Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; can be chopped or sliced based on your preference.
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy comes together beautifully, becoming a delightful dinner that your family will crave!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
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Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sliced mushrooms or chopped onions on top.
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Mix the Gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Combine the Mixtures: Pour the smooth gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring it covers the chicken evenly.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it with the flavorful gravy.
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Serve: Dish out the chicken and gravy over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or tender egg noodles. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Optional: Drizzle with a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Prep Ahead: Prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them in the crockpot; this makes serving dinner a breeze when you have a busy day.
- Check Cook Time: If using frozen chicken breasts, be sure to increase your cooking time by one hour to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
- Customize Wisely: Avoid overcrowding the crockpot; too many veggies can dilute the gravy and prevent proper cooking of the chicken.
- Safety First: Always verify that your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving, ensuring it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- Savor Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days to enjoy the deliciousness again—just reheat for a quick meal.
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this delightful dish with comforting sides that enhance its rich flavors.
- Fluffy Rice: Perfect to soak up the creamy gravy, offering a neutral base that complements the savory chicken.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting classic that adds a buttery texture and pairs harmoniously with the silky gravy.
- Tender Egg Noodles: Their delicate strands cradle the chicken and gravy, creating a heartwarming embrace for your plate.
For a colorful twist, consider a side garden salad. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it will refresh your palate with crisp veggies. Likewise, a steamed vegetable medley can introduce vibrant colors and nutritious texture to your meal.
Don’t forget a glass of Chardonnay or a light iced tea to wash it all down and enhance the comforting experience with a delightful sip!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy are perfect for those who want to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the chicken and the creamy gravy mixture up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl; then pour this mixture over the chicken. Cover and refrigerate the crockpot until ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the pot from the fridge, cook on low for 6-8 hours (or on high for 3-4 hours), and you’ll have a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as if it was made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful for future meals.
Freezer: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months for enjoying later.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring a comforting meal every time!
Meal Prep: For fresh servings, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Just combine in the crockpot and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Variations
Feel free to get creative and elevate your dish with these delightful twists!
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots and celery to the crockpot for vibrant color and added nutrition.
- Mushroom Medley: Swap in cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a richer, earthier flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the aromatic experience and compliment the chicken beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your dish a fiery zest that will wake up your taste buds.
- Creamy Dream: To thicken the gravy further, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a luscious finish.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice prior to serving for a bright, zesty contrast against the rich gravy.
- Protein Swap: Use turkey or pork in place of chicken for a satisfying variation that’s equally tasty and hearty.
- Cheesy Delight: Top servings with shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella as they melt into the warm gravy, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Embrace these variations to bring a fresh spin to your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe, making every family dinner unique and delightful!
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and easy-to-shred result. This also helps to keep the dish lean and manageable, ensuring the flavor shines through without extra fat.
How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the chicken flavorful. Just reheat it in the microwave or stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, pushing out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick?
If you find the gravy had thickened too much after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will help reintroduce moisture and keep the gravy rich and smooth.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Absolutely! Ensure that everyone at the table is aware of the ranch dressing mix, as it can contain dairy and packets may vary in ingredients. If you want to make it allergy-friendly, you can substitute the ranch seasoning with a homemade blend using herbs and spices that fit your needs.
Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, feel free to make it your own! I often add sliced mushrooms or chopped onions into the mix for added flavor. You can also toss in carrots, peas, or bell peppers, but be mindful not to overcrowd the crockpot, as this might dilute the gravy and affect the cooking process. Adding these veggies can also enhance the nutritional value of the dish!
Savory Crockpot Chicken and Gravy for Effortless Comfort Dining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Optionally, add sliced mushrooms or chopped onions on top.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until well blended and creamy.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring it covers the chicken evenly.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it with the gravy.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.