Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this savory slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe. Made with tender chicken slow-cooked in a rich homemade gravy, it’s a delicious and comforting meal that you can easily prepare in your slow cooker.
Key Takeaways:
- This slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe is the epitome of comfort food.
- It’s a homemade dish that is both delicious and easy to make.
- Slow cookers are a convenient tool for creating flavorful meals.
- You can customize the flavors and textures of this dish to suit your preferences.
- Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Easy and Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Create a flavorful and delicious meal with this easy slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Let the slow cooker do all the work while you relax and savor the enticing aromas that fill your home.
The combination of tender chicken and rich gravy is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over them.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the gravy.
- Let the chicken and gravy simmer on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the slow cooker chicken and gravy over steamed rice or mashed potatoes.
This easy and delicious slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe is the perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy the convenience of the slow cooker and indulge in the flavors of this classic comfort food. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Making slow cooker chicken and gravy is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and homemade meal that will impress your family and friends.
- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This will enhance the flavor and ensure a tasty result.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, arranging it in a single layer.
- Mix the gravy: In a separate bowl, combine your choice of gravy mix with water or chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Pour the gravy: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook on low heat: Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for several hours. The chicken should become tender and fully cooked, absorbing the flavors of the gravy.
That’s it! Your slow cooker chicken and gravy is now ready to be served. For a complete and satisfying meal, serve it over rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The tender chicken and flavorful homemade gravy will surely become a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Slow cooker chicken and gravy is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your homemade slow cooker chicken and gravy:
1. Hot Steamed Rice
Serve your slow cooker chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy hot steamed rice. The tender chicken and rich gravy blend perfectly with the mild flavor of rice, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
For a classic comfort food meal, serve your slow cooker chicken and gravy alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth and buttery texture of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of the chicken and gravy.
3. Steamed Vegetables
Add some color and nutrition to your plate by serving a side of steamed vegetables with your slow cooker chicken and gravy. Broccoli, carrots, and green beans are great options that provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Green Salad
Balance out the richness of the slow cooker chicken and gravy with a refreshing green salad. Toss together a variety of crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite salad dressing for a light and flavorful side.
These serving suggestions are just a starting point – feel free to get creative and customize your meal to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer rice or mashed potatoes, vegetables or salad, the key is to create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
| Serving Suggestion | Description |
|---|---|
| Hot Steamed Rice | Complements the tender chicken and rich gravy with its mild flavor. |
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | The smooth and buttery texture of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of the chicken and gravy. |
| Steamed Vegetables | Adds color and nutrition to the plate, providing a fresh and crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. |
| Green Salad | Balance out the richness of the slow cooker chicken and gravy with a refreshing and light side. |
Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe. You can use different types of gravy mix or add additional seasonings to customize the flavor. If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add some water or chicken broth to the soup mixture. The slow cooker does a great job of infusing the flavors, so feel free to experiment and make it your own.
Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
- Add diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions for added flavor and texture.
- Spice things up by adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to create unique flavor profiles.
- Add a splash of white wine or sherry for a touch of sophistication.
Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
- For extra tender chicken, marinate it in buttermilk for a few hours before cooking.
- Sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for a golden, flavorful crust.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix some cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Let the flavors meld together by cooking the chicken and gravy on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
With these tips and variations, you can elevate your slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe to new heights. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an easy weeknight dinner, homemade slow cooker chicken and gravy is sure to satisfy.
| Tip/Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Add diced vegetables | Carrots, celery, or onions for added flavor and texture. |
| Spice things up | Cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick of heat. |
| Experiment with herbs and spices | Thyme, rosemary, or paprika to create unique flavor profiles. |
| Add a splash of white wine or sherry | For a touch of sophistication. |
| Marinate the chicken in buttermilk | For extra tenderness. |
| Sear the chicken in a skillet before cooking | For a golden, flavorful crust. |
| Thicken the gravy with cornstarch | Mix with water and add during the last hour of cooking. |
| Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours | To let the flavors meld together. |
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Slow cooker chicken and gravy is a versatile and convenient dish that can be prepared in advance and frozen for future meals. Whether you want to save time during busy weekdays or have a delicious homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it, these make-ahead and freezing instructions will help you enjoy this comforting slow cooker recipe whenever you desire.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- Prepare the slow cooker chicken and gravy according to the recipe.
- Once cooked, let the dish cool down to room temperature.
- Transfer the chicken and gravy to an airtight container or freezer bags.
- Label the container or bags with the name and date of preparation.
- Place the container or bags in the refrigerator and store for up to 3 days.
Note: It’s important to cool the dish before refrigerating to prevent condensation and moisture buildup, which can affect the texture of the chicken and gravy.
Freezing Instructions:
- Ensure the slow cooker chicken and gravy has cooled down completely.
- Divide the dish into individual portions or store it as a whole.
- Place the portions or the whole dish into airtight freezer-friendly containers or freezer bags.
- Label the containers or bags with the name and date of preparation.
- Remove any excess air from the bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
Note: Freezing the slow cooker chicken and gravy in individual portions allows you to thaw only what you need, reducing waste and making meal planning easier.
Thawing and Reheating:
To thaw your frozen slow cooker chicken and gravy:
- Transfer the frozen container or bag to the refrigerator.
- Allow it to thaw overnight.
To reheat your thawed slow cooker chicken and gravy:
- Place the thawed dish in a microwave-safe container or a saucepan.
- Heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Serve and enjoy!
By following these make-ahead and freezing instructions, you can enjoy the deliciousness of homemade slow cooker chicken and gravy whenever it suits your schedule.
Additional Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes
If you’re a fan of slow cooker chicken and gravy, you’ll love these other tantalizing slow cooker chicken recipes. With a variety of flavors and variations, these recipes will keep your meals interesting and satisfy your cravings for delicious comfort food. From creamy chicken soups to flavorful chicken stews, the slow cooker is your secret weapon for creating mouthwatering chicken dishes.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
This creamy lemon garlic chicken recipe infuses tender chicken with bright and tangy flavors. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, while the lemon and garlic add a refreshing zing. Serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Honey BBQ Pulled Chicken
Indulge in the sweet and smoky flavors of honey BBQ pulled chicken. This recipe combines tender slow-cooked chicken with a tangy and slightly sweet homemade BBQ sauce. The result is a flavorful and finger-licking meal that is perfect for sandwiches or served over a pile of buttery mashed potatoes.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Spice up your dinner with these spicy buffalo chicken tacos. The slow cooker transforms chicken into tender and juicy meat that is smothered in a fiery buffalo sauce. Serve it in warm tortillas with tangy blue cheese crumbles, crunchy lettuce, and cool ranch dressing for a satisfying and flavorful taco night.
Coconut Curry Chicken
Transport your taste buds to the flavors of Southeast Asia with this coconut curry chicken recipe. The slow cooker infuses the chicken with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a flavorful and comforting dish. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a taste of exotic cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this slow cooker chicken recipe. Tender chicken is cooked with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
“Slow cooker chicken recipes are a great way to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. With the convenience of the slow cooker, you can enjoy delicious homemade meals without all the fuss. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want to sit back and let the slow cooker do all the work.”
– Chef Jessica Williams
Slow cooker chicken and gravy is the perfect comfort food that will warm your soul. This homemade slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe is incredibly easy to make, and the results are absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking to host a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
With its tender and juicy chicken cooked to perfection and a rich homemade gravy that’s bursting with flavor, this comforting slow cooker chicken and gravy is a winner. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
The best part about this recipe is that you can customize it to suit your taste. Add your favorite seasonings, veggies, or even switch up the gravy mix for a unique twist. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to complete the meal and enjoy the comforting flavors.
FAQ
Can I freeze slow cooker chicken and gravy?
Yes, slow cooker chicken and gravy freezes well. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker chicken and gravy?
Slow cooker chicken and gravy typically takes several hours on low heat until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken and gravy?
Slow cooker chicken and gravy pairs well with hot steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also add some steamed vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.
Can I customize the flavor of slow cooker chicken and gravy?
Yes, you can use different types of gravy mix or add additional seasonings to customize the flavor. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Can I make slow cooker chicken and gravy ahead of time?
Yes, slow cooker chicken and gravy is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Do I need to use a specific type of chicken for slow cooker chicken and gravy?
You can use any cut of chicken you prefer for slow cooker chicken and gravy. Whether it’s boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, it will be delicious.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth for the gravy?
Yes, if you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add some water instead of chicken broth to the soup mixture.
How do I reheat frozen slow cooker chicken and gravy?
To reheat frozen slow cooker chicken and gravy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
