When it comes to cozy comfort food, nothing beats a warm, hearty plate of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. This dish transports me back to many family dinners spent around the table, not just savoring the flavors but also soaking up the love that was poured into each recipe. The smell of chicken simmering all day, mixed with the fragrant herbs and savory broth, is enough to make anyone feel right at home.
I remember the first time I made this meal; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I had a group of friends over for a cozy dinner. I threw everything into the crockpot and set it to low while we binge-watched our favorite show. By the time we finished the first episode, my kitchen was filled with mouthwatering aromas, and I could hardly wait for dinner! This recipe has become a staple in my home, and it’s so easy, you can hardly mess it up (trust me, I’ve tried).
What’s in Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Let’s break down the ingredients so you know exactly what makes this dish so delightful:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show—the chicken becomes tender and flavorful while it cooks in the savory broth. I usually buy organic chicken breasts; they taste so much better and are worth the extra few bucks.
Chicken Broth: A rich, hearty base that adds depth to the dish. I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess and a little comfort. Opt for a brand you love; I usually go for Campbell’s. If you’re looking for a healthier option, there are organic versions too!
Onion Soup Mix: This one adds incredible flavor and is super convenient. Just one packet goes a long way in enhancing the dish.
Garlic Powder and Black Pepper: Just a sprinkle of these adds that extra kick! They’re pantry staples for a reason.
Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of this tangy sauce brings a whole new level of flavor—trust me on this!
Fresh Parsley: For garnishing. It not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herby flavor to balance the richness of the gravy.
Is Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect! While this dish is delicious, it also brings some benefits to the table. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and keeping you full longer. The fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also contains vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants!
However, let’s not ignore the cream of chicken soup and the onion soup mix. Depending on the brand, they can be high in sodium and preservatives, so if you’re watching your intake, you might want to make homemade versions or look for options that are low in sodium. Overall, this recipe can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe comfortably serves about 4 people.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Ready to dive into the cooking? It’s as easy as 1-2-3… and a few more steps! Here’s how:
1. In a crockpot, combine the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
2. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid mixture.
3. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the gravy. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Serve the chicken and gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or with bread. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Meal
This meal is incredibly versatile! I love serving it over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes, but feel free to get creative! You could pile it on a crunchy baked potato, spoon it onto some warm crusty bread, or even use it as a filling for a savory chicken pot pie.
If you want to add a little color to your plate, toss together a quick side salad or some roasted veggies. And don’t forget to have extra fresh parsley on hand to make your dish as pretty as it is tasty!
I hope you give this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy a try! It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious waiting for you at dinner time. I’d love to hear how your version turns out, so come back and share your experience. Happy cooking!
