Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is an effortless way to serve a hearty meal to your family. With tender chicken slowly cooked in savory gravy, it’s a dish that brings warmth to your dinner table. Perfect for busy days, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it until dinner time!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 packet ranch dressing mix
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped vegetables (carrots, celery)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high in the crockpot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with gravy) contains approximately 300 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of protein, and 2g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
5. Add chopped vegetables if desired.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it with two forks.
8. Stir the gravy to combine with the chicken.
9. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce. For a healthier option, use low-sodium chicken broth and skinless chicken thighs for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice. A side of warm bread also complements the rich gravy perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry.
– Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances flavor.
– Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
– Ensure the lid is tight to retain moisture.
– Adjust cooking times based on your crockpot model.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, sear the chicken before adding to the crockpot.
– Experiment with different herbs for varied flavor profiles.
– Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
– Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by an hour or more to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
What can I serve with crockpot chicken and gravy?
This dish is excellent over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Steamed vegetables also make a great side.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensuring your broth is gluten-free.
How do I make this recipe spicy?
Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the gravy mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use the sauté function to brown the chicken, then pressure cook for about 15 minutes.
Conclusion
Crockpot chicken and gravy is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal. Perfect for busy nights, it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Enjoy this family favorite that promises to warm hearts and fill bellies!
Crockpot Chicken And Gravy
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped vegetables carrots, celery
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add chopped vegetables if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it with two forks.
- Stir the gravy to combine with the chicken.
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
