Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

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Introduction:
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, let it simmer away, and come home to a house filled with the irresistible aroma of tender chicken and savory gravy.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet (about 1 ounce) of dry onion soup mix
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water. Mix until well combined.
  3. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring that the chicken is fully coated.
  4. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and transfer it to a serving platter. Cover the chicken with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
  6. In a small bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the gravy in the crockpot to thicken it.
  7. Continue cooking the gravy on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
  8. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Pour the thickened gravy over the chicken on the serving platter.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion:
With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a hassle-free meal that delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining guests on the weekend, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So dust off your slow cooker and give this delicious comfort food classic a try!

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions: Serve your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy hot and fresh straight from the slow cooker. Pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttery noodles for a comforting meal. You can also add a side of crisp green beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the chicken and gravy before serving for a pop of color and added freshness. These herbs not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also impart a subtle herbaceous flavor.
  3. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to the container to prevent condensation and maintain optimal freshness.
  4. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out and the gravy from becoming too thick. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to the gravy if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
  5. Freeze for Later: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and contents before placing them in the freezer. Properly stored, the chicken and gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  6. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat the thawed chicken and gravy gently in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to revive the gravy’s consistency.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, ensuring that every leftover meal tastes just as delicious as the first serving.

  1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
    While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons, you can use frozen chicken breasts in a pinch. However, ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) during cooking. You may need to increase the cooking time by an additional 1-2 hours when using frozen chicken.
  2. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?
    If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can make a homemade cream sauce using a roux (butter and flour) combined with chicken broth and a splash of heavy cream.
  3. How can I prevent the gravy from becoming too thick or thin?
    If the gravy becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. On the other hand, if the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a slurry of equal parts flour and cold water and stirring it into the hot gravy. Cook the gravy for a few additional minutes until it reaches the desired thickness.
  4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
    Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables to the crockpot along with the chicken and gravy ingredients. Sliced carrots, diced potatoes, celery, and onions are all excellent choices. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables may require longer cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.

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