As a food enthusiast and someone who loves experimenting with new recipes, I often find myself gravitating towards meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. My family has a penchant for hearty meals, and the Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe has quickly become a staple in our household. The aroma of this dish wafting through the home creates an inviting atmosphere that promises comfort and satisfaction. Each time I prepare it, my family eagerly gathers around the table, ready to indulge in what has become one of our favorite comfort foods. The tender chicken immersed in creamy gravy is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, evoking the warmth and coziness of a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients
To craft this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 packets of chicken gravy mix
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Begin by arranging the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, gravy mix packets, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir until smooth and well mixed. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture, ensuring all the seasonings are evenly distributed. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, fully covering the meat. Set your crock pot to low and let the chicken cook for 6-8 hours or until it is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot, allowing it to soak up the flavorful gravy.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves approximately four people. Each serving contains an estimated 350 calories, making it a balanced choice for a hearty meal. The nutritional content provides a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the gravy, ensuring sustained energy throughout your day.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is incredibly convenient, requiring only 10 minutes to assemble the ingredients. The slow cooker does the rest of the work over the course of 6-8 hours, allowing you to attend to other activities while your meal cooks. This makes it an ideal choice for a busy day when you still want to enjoy a homemade dinner.
How to Serve
To serve this delicious dish, consider the following options:
- Over a bed of fluffy white rice, allowing the gravy to seep into the grains.
- Paired with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combination.
- Spoon it over freshly baked biscuits for a comforting Southern-style meal.
- Accompanied by steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli to add a healthy touch.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of savory gravy.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables such as carrots or potatoes directly into the crock pot for a complete one-pot meal.
- High Heat Option: If short on time, you can cook the dish on high for 3-4 hours, though the flavors develop more fully with a slower cooking process.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary to bring a new dimension to the dish.
- Leftover Magic: Use leftovers to create a delicious chicken pot pie by adding mixed vegetables and topping with a pastry crust.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will increase the cooking time. Ensure they are fully cooked before serving. - How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or use coconut cream for a similar texture. - Can I add extra spices?
Absolutely, feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. Paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. - Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may provide a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.