Crockpot chicken and gravy is an incredibly easy and flavorful dish that can be prepared with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just throw everything into the crockpot, and let the slow cooker do all the work. Ideal for busy families, this dish provides a comforting meal without the need to spend hours in the kitchen. Not only is it perfect for a weeknight dinner, but it also makes for an excellent lunch meal.
What makes crockpot chicken and gravy so appealing is its versatility. You can use different types of chicken, such as boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. The gravy itself is rich and savory, blending perfectly with the tender chicken. Therefore, this recipe offers an effortlessly satisfying meal, packed with flavor and warmth.
Furthermore, preparing crockpot chicken and gravy eliminates the stress of meal prep and clean-up. The slow cooking process ensures that all the ingredients meld together, creating a dish that is both convenient and delicious.
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Why Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is Perfect for Busy Days
On busy days, it can be hard to find the time to prepare a healthy, homemade meal. However, crockpot chicken and gravy is an excellent solution to this problem. With the slow cooker handling most of the work, you can go about your day while the dish cooks to perfection.
Moreover, it’s a meal that doesn’t require constant monitoring. Once you add all your ingredients to the crockpot, you can simply set it and forget it. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on other tasks without worrying about the meal.
Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can even prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for later use. This makes it a great option for meal prepping, especially if you have a busy week ahead.
Key benefits of crockpot chicken and gravy include:
- Minimal hands-on time required
- Can be made ahead and stored
- Easy clean-up, as the slow cooker is the main tool
- Perfect for busy families and individuals
The Best Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
To make the perfect crockpot chicken and gravy, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, savory gravy, and a few key seasonings results in a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
Here’s a list of ingredients for the best crockpot chicken and gravy:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. Chicken thighs will yield a richer flavor, while breasts are leaner.
- Gravy base: You can use a homemade gravy mix or a store-bought packet. For a more natural taste, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and add flour or cornstarch to thicken.
- Seasonings: Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are essential for creating depth of flavor. A bit of dried thyme or rosemary can add a nice touch.
- Cream or milk: Adding a bit of heavy cream or milk to your gravy gives it a creamy consistency that’s comforting and delicious.
- Vegetables: You can choose to add vegetables such as carrots or potatoes, though they’re not mandatory.
With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a dish that is both filling and flavorful. Moreover, the gravy acts as a perfect complement to the chicken, giving it moisture and taste.
How to Prepare Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Without Overcomplicating It
One of the reasons crockpot chicken and gravy is so popular is because it’s incredibly easy to prepare. There’s no need for complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. In fact, the simpler the preparation, the better the final result. Here’s how you can get started with minimal effort.
- Prepare the chicken: Season your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You don’t need to over-season, as the gravy will add additional flavor.
- Add to the crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken into the crockpot. You can opt to add vegetables like potatoes or carrots at this stage if desired.
- Prepare the gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together your chicken broth, flour (or cornstarch), and seasonings. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Set and cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
That’s all there is to it! By following these simple steps, you can easily create a meal that your whole family will love, without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
For those who prefer a more detailed breakdown, here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect crockpot chicken and gravy. This guide will ensure that you get the best results, whether you’re new to slow cooking or an experienced pro.
Preparing Your Chicken for the Crockpot
First, prepare your chicken by trimming any excess fat and patting it dry. This will help the seasonings stick better and ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices like garlic powder and onion powder.
After seasoning, place the chicken in the crockpot. You can also add whole potatoes or carrots if desired, but it’s not necessary. The chicken itself will release moisture during cooking, making the vegetables tender and flavorful.
Making the Perfect Gravy to Accompany Your Chicken
Next, prepare the gravy base. Combine chicken broth with a thickening agent, such as flour or cornstarch, and whisk until smooth. For a richer gravy, consider adding a bit of cream or milk. Pour the gravy over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Set the crockpot to low heat and let it cook for 6-7 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the chicken to absorb the gravy flavors and become incredibly tender.
How Long to Cook Crockpot Chicken and Gravy for Maximum Flavor
The cooking time for crockpot chicken and gravy depends on the cut of chicken and the temperature setting. Generally, cooking on low for 6-7 hours is recommended to ensure that the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.
However, if you’re in a rush, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will also work. But, keep in mind that cooking on high heat may result in a slightly less tender chicken compared to the low-and-slow method.
Tip: To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
Storage Tips for Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Leftovers from crockpot chicken and gravy make for a delicious lunch meal the next day, or even a hearty dinner. However, proper storage is essential to maintain freshness and flavor.
How to Properly Store Leftovers
Once the dish has cooled down, transfer any leftover chicken and gravy into an airtight container. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering, which could cause the meal to spoil. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Leftovers Without Losing Quality
When reheating leftovers, you can use the microwave or stove. If using a stove, gently reheat over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a small amount of broth or cream can help keep the gravy moist. In the microwave, reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Variations of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy for Different Tastes
While crockpot chicken and gravy is delicious on its own, you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Here are some variations to try:
- Add mushrooms: For an earthy flavor, toss in sliced mushrooms along with the chicken and gravy base.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy option: Stir in some sour cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier gravy.
- Vegetable-packed: For added nutrition, add more vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers.
By adjusting the ingredients, you can create a dish that fits your unique preferences.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things might not turn out as expected. Here are some common issues when making crockpot chicken and gravy and how to fix them:
- Gravy too thin: If your gravy is too thin, mix a little cornstarch or flour with water and stir it into the crockpot. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
- Chicken too dry: This can happen if the chicken is overcooked. To prevent this, always check the internal temperature and avoid cooking on high for too long.
- Not enough flavor: Add more seasonings to taste, such as extra garlic, onion, or herbs like rosemary.
By addressing these issues, you can ensure that your crockpot chicken and gravy always turns out perfectly.
For a delicious dinner, try our chicken and yellow rice recipe alongside a savory chicken long rice recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do you cook chicken in gravy in a slow cooker?
To cook chicken in gravy in a slow cooker, first season the chicken with your preferred spices. Then, place it into the slow cooker and pour over the gravy or a gravy base made from chicken broth, flour, and seasonings. Set the slow cooker to low for about 6-7 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender while absorbing the flavors of the gravy. For best results, you can add vegetables like potatoes and carrots to enhance the dish. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Why does gravy go watery in a slow cooker?
Gravy can become watery in a slow cooker for several reasons. First, slow cookers release moisture from the ingredients as they cook, which can dilute the gravy. Additionally, if there’s too much liquid added initially, it may result in a thinner gravy. To avoid this, try using less broth or adding a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch towards the end of cooking. You can also cook the dish uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate.
Is it OK to put raw chicken in slow cooker?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to put raw chicken in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process will ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly, reaching a safe internal temperature of 165°F. However, it is important not to overcrowd the slow cooker and to use the correct cooking time to avoid undercooking. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid, as this helps with even cooking and moisture retention.
Can you cook raw chicken in gravy?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken in gravy. The slow cooker method is particularly great for this. When you add the raw chicken and pour gravy or a gravy base over it, the chicken cooks in the gravy, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become tender. This method ensures a moist and flavorful dish. Just make sure to cook the chicken long enough to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I cook raw chicken in sauce?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken in sauce, and the slow cooker is an excellent tool for this. When you add raw chicken to the sauce, it will absorb the flavors of the sauce while cooking. This method works well with many types of sauces, including tomato, cream, and gravy-based ones. As with cooking chicken in a slow cooker, be sure to cook it for the appropriate amount of time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Easy and Delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
In conclusion, crockpot chicken and gravy is the perfect meal for those who want something delicious without the hassle. With minimal preparation and a few basic ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you make it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. So, try it today and enjoy the ease and taste of homemade comfort food.
