When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the soothing, hearty flavors of chicken and gravy. This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. With minimal prep and a few hours in the slow cooker, you’ll have a savory dinner ready to enjoy. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, condensed cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth or water. Stir until well blended.
- Add Sauce to Chicken:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.
- Season and Cook:
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks if desired, and return it to the crockpot, mixing it well with the gravy.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor and a touch of elegance.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, substitute the water with chicken broth.
- You can add vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or peas to the crockpot for additional flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- This recipe is versatile and can be made with chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Use a homemade cream of chicken soup to control the ingredients and reduce carbs. Make it by combining heavy cream, chicken broth, and xanthan gum for thickening.
- Ensure that the onion soup mix does not contain added sugars or carbs. Alternatively, make a homemade version with dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, and spices.
- Serve the chicken and gravy over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may need to be increased by an hour or so to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the crockpot or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have a packet of dry onion soup mix? A: You can make your own by mixing 1/4 cup dried minced onion, 2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon parsley flakes, and a pinch of sugar.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Ensure that your cream of chicken soup and onion soup mix are gluten-free. There are several brands available that offer gluten-free versions of these products.
This Easy Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Plus, with options to make it keto, low-carb, or gluten-free, it’s a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular on your dinner table!
