There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. It reminds me of family dinners where the aroma filled the house, drawing everyone to the table. This recipe is a lifesaver for those busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones and satisfy those hunger pangs.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of your time. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful dish. Plus, the tender chicken practically melts in your mouth, making it a hit with the whole family. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the dinner table!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, they cook up tender and juicy.
Ranch dressing mix: Adds a zesty flavor that elevates the dish.
Brown gravy mix: This brings a rich, savory depth to the sauce.
Chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps everything moist and delicious.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and enhances the overall taste.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick.
Black pepper: Just a pinch for a subtle heat.
Onion powder: It complements the other flavors beautifully.
Olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and adds richness.
Salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
For those looking to mix things up, consider tossing in some chopped vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a different taste, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
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For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Creating this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is as easy as pie. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Lay them in a single layer for even cooking. This is the foundation of your dish, so make sure they’re fresh and ready to soak up all those flavors!
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and olive oil. This mixture is where the magic happens! It’ll create a rich, savory sauce that envelops the chicken.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure every piece is well coated. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better! You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Stir it back into the gravy, adjusting the salt to your liking. Serve this delightful dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the olive oil; it keeps the chicken moist.
For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Any size will do, but a 6-quart is perfect for this recipe.
Medium Bowl: For mixing your sauce; a whisk works best.
Two Forks: Essential for shredding the chicken.
Measuring Cups: Handy for precise ingredient amounts.
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Vegetable Medley: Add chopped carrots, potatoes, or green beans for a hearty, nutritious twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or potatoes for a low-carb meal.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all mixes and broths are certified gluten-free for a safe option.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect base for this savory dish.
Crusty Bread: Offer some warm, crusty bread for dipping into the gravy.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so. The slow cooker will still work its magic, ensuring the chicken is tender and flavorful.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for alternatives, cream of mushroom soup works great! You can also use homemade white sauce or even a dairy-free option if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you by dinner time.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
This dish goes wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad. The gravy is perfect for dipping crusty bread, too!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your home, the anticipation building as dinner time approaches, and the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones make this dish truly special. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and comfort, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do, and may it become a cherished favorite in your home!
A simple and delicious slow cooker recipe for chicken and gravy that is perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch dressing mix
1 packet (1 ounce) brown gravy mix
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts in a single layer.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and olive oil until well combined.
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the gravy. Adjust salt to taste.
Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or with bread for dipping.
Notes
For added flavor, toss in some chopped vegetables like carrots or potatoes before cooking.
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
