Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy: An Incredible 7-Ingredient Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that showcases tender chicken bathed in a rich, savory gravy. This recipe is nothing short of amazing for those looking for an easy yet satisfying meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through slow cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked chicken and gravy wafting through your home. Just picture the tender meat falling apart at the slightest touch, ready to be served over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. This comforting dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just seven key ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious recipe any day of the week.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy offers an effortless way to create something special. This recipe requires little preparation and allows the slow cooker to do all the work. It’s a hassle-free dish that delivers maximum flavor. Let’s explore why this recipe is extraordinary and how you can make it at home.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating this incredible dish is not only simple but also relatively quick in terms of active cooking time. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved in making Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 6 to 8 hours and 10 minutes

This means you can easily prepare it in the morning and let it cook throughout the day, providing a hearty dinner with little effort.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
• 1 packet of brown gravy mix
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your very own Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix and brown gravy mix.
3. Combine with Wet Ingredients: Add the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to the dry mixture, stirring until smooth.
4. Add Mushrooms (Optional): If using mushrooms, layer them over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Pour Over Chicken: Pour the combined sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preferences.
7. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
8. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing in the gravy.
9. Serve: Stir to combine, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated in the flavorful gravy before serving.

This straightforward method guarantees delicious results with minimal effort.

How to Serve

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy can be as simple or elaborate as you desire. Here are some thoughtful ideas for presenting this dish:

1. Over Rice: Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a fulfilling meal.
2. Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting side, ladle the chicken and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes.
3. With Noodles: Egg noodles or your choice of pasta can also be a great base for the chicken and gravy.
4. Garnish: Consider adding fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Serve with Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans to add a healthy element to your plate.
6. Presentation: Use a large serving platter for family-style gatherings, allowing guests to help themselves.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll impress your family and friends with a meal that is as beautiful as it is delicious. The flavors of the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy will surely be memorable, making it a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For optimal flavor, choose fresh mushrooms and quality chicken breasts.
• Season to Taste: Always taste your dish towards the end of cooking. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Experiment with Gravy: Try different gravy mixes, like turkey or country-style, for unique flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for added nutrition.
• Use Leftover Gravy: If you have leftover gravy from a previous meal, feel free to incorporate it into this recipe.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy! Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Herb-Infused Version: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
2. Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up.
3. Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a creamy and cheesy finish.
4. Mushroom Medley: Use different types of mushrooms like portobello or shiitake for enhanced flavor.
5. Dijon Mustard Twist: Add a couple of tablespoons of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up on the stove or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

To efficiently prepare Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy, you may want to have the following equipment handy:

• Slow cooker: Essential for the slow cooking process.
• Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To accurately measure ingredients.
• Forks: Two forks are handy for shredding the chicken when it’s cooked.
• Airtight containers: For storing leftovers or freezing portions.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this recipe is everyone’s favorite for a reason. Whether you serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, the end result is always delicious. This simple yet satisfying meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, making weeknight dinners a breeze!