Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a hearty meal that cooks itself while you go about your day, isn’t there? This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a dish that practically prepares itself, filling your kitchen with the most delightful aromas. With tender chicken covered in a rich, savory gravy, it’s perfect served over a fluffy bed of rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet of brown gravy mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6-7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3-4 hours 10 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of a crockpot. Make sure they are spread evenly for optimal cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Stir the mixture until it is well blended and creamy.
- Pour this delicious gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, allowing it to coat the meat generously.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot, mixing it well into the luscious gravy.
- Serve the warm, comforting chicken and gravy over a generous serving of cooked rice or fluffy mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
If you’re looking to add a bit of extra flavor, consider adding in some chopped onions or carrots at the beginning. They’ll cook down beautifully and enhance the dish. Also, for a little kick, a dash of hot sauce can be mixed into the gravy just before serving!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the slow cooking technique, which allows the chicken to become tender and soak up all those incredible flavors. The low and slow approach breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it juicy and easy to shred, while the gravy thickens beautifully as it cooks. If you’re short on time, cooking on high will still yield a delicious result!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so if you’re cooking on low.
What other sides can I serve with this dish?
Aside from rice or mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli or green beans make a wonderful addition for a complete meal.
Can leftovers be stored?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is not only a breeze to prepare, but it also delivers a warm, comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s bound to be a hit with your family. So grab your crockpot, and let this easy dish bring warmth and joy to your dinner table tonight!