Looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal that will warm your soul? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe. With tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights or laid-back weekends when you crave comfort without the fuss. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful meal that will soon become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 (0.87 ounce) packets chicken gravy mix
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the slow cooker: Begin by spraying your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Season the chicken: Take the chicken breasts and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then, place them snugly in the bottom of the prepared slow cooker.
3. Prepare the gravy mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix packets, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard (if using) until you achieve a smooth consistency.
4. Pour over the chicken: Once your gravy mixture is well combined, pour it over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
5. Slow cook to perfection: Seal the lid of the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. Allow the magic to happen as the chicken becomes tender and infused with the delicious flavors of the gravy.
6. Shred and combine: Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it thoroughly with the gravy until everything is well combined.
7. Serve and enjoy: It’s time to savor the fruits of your labor! Serve the mouthwatering chicken and gravy over cooked rice, noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. Each bite promises warmth and satisfaction.

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Garnish for Flavor: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the chicken and gravy just before serving to add a burst of freshness and flavor.
2. Side Dish Suggestions: Pair this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
3. Leftover Love: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture if needed.
4. Freezing Option: This chicken and gravy dish freezes well! Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners during busy weekdays. It’s a convenient way to have homemade comfort food at your fingertips whenever you need it.
6. Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions for extra depth of flavor, or experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature twist.
7. Presentation Matters: Serve this dish in a deep bowl or on a large platter to showcase the comforting layers of chicken and gravy. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra gravy on top adds a finishing touch that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? It’s recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed before placing it in the slow cooker to avoid any food safety concerns.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, as thighs tend to be more forgiving and may require less time in the slow cooker.
3. Is it necessary to spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray? While it’s not absolutely necessary, spraying the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the bottom, making cleanup easier. Alternatively, you can use slow cooker liners for added convenience.
4. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or a homemade creamy sauce made from chicken broth and a roux (butter and flour mixture).
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free chicken gravy mix packets and ensuring that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Additionally, serve the chicken and gravy over gluten-free pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
6. Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the gravy mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply pour the mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and continue with the cooking instructions.
7. What if my gravy is too thick or too thin? If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with additional chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the gravy while it simmers.