Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Name: Crockpot Chicken And Gravy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 370 min
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; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; Fresh parsley for garnish

Transform your dinner routine with this delicious crockpot chicken and gravy recipe. This dish is a comforting classic, featuring tender chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet satisfying enough for special occasions. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or rice, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, hearty meals.

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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 chicken breast with gravy) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of protein, and 500mg of sodium. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
Stir the shredded chicken back into the gravy.
Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your hearty meal with your favorite sides!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Additionally, use turkey breast instead of chicken for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, ensure the ranch dressing mix is certified gluten-free.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; stick to the recommended cooking times.
Not seasoning the chicken adequately can result in bland flavors.
Using too much liquid can dilute the gravy; follow the recipe for best results.
Forgetting to shred the chicken before serving can make it hard to enjoy.
Not letting the gravy thicken can lead to a watery sauce.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add chopped onions and garlic to the crockpot.
Try adding vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a one-pot meal.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding cornstarch mixed with water if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How can I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and cook them in the crockpot the next day.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing mix?

If you don’t have ranch dressing mix, you can use a blend of dried herbs such as dill, parsley, and garlic powder for similar flavors.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, crockpot chicken and gravy is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken and gravy is a delightful dish that brings comfort and ease to your dinner table. Its rich flavors and minimal preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Enjoy the warm, savory goodness that this dish brings to your home!