Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: A Comforting and Easy Meal

Method to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Preparing the Chicken and Gravy:

1. Mix the Gravy Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Ensure that the mixture is well combined and free of lumps.
2. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray or a small amount of oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully covered.

Cooking the Chicken and Gravy:

1. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but cooking it low and slow will yield the most tender chicken.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. The chicken should easily pull apart. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy so that it’s well-coated.
3. Optional Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier gravy, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream at this point. This will add a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.

Serving the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

1. Serve Over Your Favorite Base: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is incredibly versatile and can be served over a variety of bases. It’s especially delicious over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or biscuits. The gravy will soak into whatever you serve it with, making it even more flavorful.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top of the chicken and gravy before serving. This is optional, but it adds a nice touch.

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

• Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicier result.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you find that the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this into the gravy and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
• Flavor Boosters: For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of paprika, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the gravy mixture.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the gravy.