why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy stands out as a favorite comfort food. It’s effortless to prepare and fills the house with a delightful aroma. You can toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do all the work.
This dish is not just convenient; it’s also versatile. The creamy nature of the gravy makes everything taste better. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
equipment needed for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
To make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment.
Having a reliable slow cooker is crucial since this is the star of the recipe. You will also want a measuring cup for accurate measurement of the chicken broth, a medium bowl for mixing the sauce, and two forks for shredding the chicken once it’s cooked.
Optional items include a cutting board and knife if you are prepping chicken that is not pre-cut. A whisk can also help mix the ingredients smoothly.
What You Need to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
How to Cook Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Step by Step
To start, lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This also makes it easier to clean afterward.
Next, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. If you are using chicken thighs, they will work just as well. The choice is yours.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried parsley. Mix until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
Once your mixture is ready, pour it over the chicken. Make sure every piece is fully coated with the creamy sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring all the flavors penetrate the meat.
Then cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to become tender and easy to shred. During this time, the chicken will soak up all the flavors from the gravy.
When the cooking time is up, you can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This method is easy and keeps all the gravy intact. If you want it creamier, stir in sour cream at this point. This is optional but highly recommended for a richer flavor.
Your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is now ready. Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley if you desire a pop of color.
how to make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is straightforward, making it an ideal dish for home cooks. The recipe requires minimal chopping and prep work.
Begin by preparing your slow cooker to ensure your meal comes together quickly. This step usually takes just a few minutes. Greasing the slow cooker can help with clean-up later.
Place your chicken in the cooker. It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for the best results. Cold chicken can result in uneven cooking.
To create the sauce, measure your chicken broth and cream of chicken soup in a separate bowl. Add the seasonings to infuse your dish with flavor.
Once everything is mixed, pour it over the chicken so that it becomes the base for the gravy. Cover the slow cooker and walk away for several hours without worry.
When it’s time to serve, you’ll be welcomed by the wonderful aroma of tender chicken. Shredding it right in the pot lets the meat absorb even more flavor from the gravy.
Finally, finger-licking deliciousness awaits. Feel free to customize the texture by mixing in sour cream or serving it as is.
how to serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is as delightful as making it. You can create a comforting meal that your family will appreciate.
Start by taking the shredded chicken right from the slow cooker. The creamy gravy will cling to the chicken, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Use a ladle to serve the chicken and gravy over your chosen base, such as fluffy mashed potatoes, warm rice, or hearty egg noodles. Each option brings its own unique touch to the meal.
For a final presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This tiny addition not only makes the dish look appealing but also adds another burst of flavor.
If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later. This dish can easily be reheated in the microwave for a quick meal on the go.
what to serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Pairing your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are a few delightful options.
Mashed potatoes remain a classic choice and soak up all that delicious gravy. You can make them creamy or keep them with a rustic texture, based on your preference.
Rice is another excellent option and offers a slightly different texture. Consider jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant addition.
For a more hearty meal, serve the chicken on egg noodles. The soft noodles complement the rich gravy beautifully, creating a balanced dish.
You may add veggies to round out your meal. Steamed broccoli or glazed carrots can provide color and nutrition to your plate. A light salad can also pair nicely, adding freshness to the richness of the chicken.
how to store Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Knowing how to store your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy properly ensures you can enjoy leftovers later. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. This step prevents condensation from forming when it’s sealed.
Transfer the chicken and gravy into an airtight container. Always use a container that can hold all the sauce without spilling. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider separating them into smaller containers for easier reheating.
Store the dish in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and gravy. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. The dish can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it back up. Microwaving or reheating in a pot on the stove both work well to bring it back to life.
tips to make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
To enhance your cooking experience, consider these tips when making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy. The smallest changes can yield delightful results.
First, if you have time, sear the chicken breast in a frying pan before placing it in the slow cooker. This step adds a layer of flavor you won’t want to miss.
Adjusting the seasoning can really take this dish to the next level. Taste the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken. You can tweak it based on your family’s preferences, adding more spices or salt as needed.
If you like extra creaminess, use full-fat cream of chicken soup or add a little extra sour cream. Both will enhance the texture and flavor immensely.
Experimenting with herbs can also elevate your recipe. Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. These herbs will infuse the dish with fresh flavors.
Lastly, avoid lifting the lid of the slow cooker while it cooks. Keeping the lid closed ensures all the heat and moisture stays inside, resulting in tender chicken.
variation (if any)
Variations can be fun to explore when cooking Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy. If you want to switch things up, consider these options.
You can make a healthier version by using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thigh meat tends to stay moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Just ensure that all the other ingredients you choose are gluten-free.
Another variation is to add vegetables to the slow cooker. Chopped carrots, potatoes, or peas make tasty additions. Just ensure to cut them into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
If you want a bit of spice, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne can bring some heat to this comforting dish without overwhelming it.
Finally, consider using different cream soups, such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery. Each variation will create a distinct flavor profile.
best time to make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is ideal for any occasion. However, you might find it works best during certain times of the week.
Busy weeknights are a perfect fit. You can prepare it in the morning before work and come home to a warm, satisfying meal. Simply set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you take care of other responsibilities.
Cold winter days also call for comforting dishes like this one. Its warm, creamy nature helps to beat the chill while providing a cozy feeling.
Family gatherings or potlucks are also great opportunities to make this dish. It serves well to a crowd and can be easily doubled if needed. Just keep in mind to adjust the amount of sauce accordingly.
Super Bowl Sunday or holiday seasons can also make a lovely way to impress your guests. Everyone enjoys a hearty meal, and this dish hits the mark perfectly.
common mistakes to avoid
There are a few common mistakes that people might encounter when making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy. By knowing these, you can avoid setbacks and enjoy your meal.
One of the biggest missteps is not seasoning adequately. A proper balance of spices enhances the flavors. Always taste your mixture before pouring it over the chicken.
Another mistake is opening the lid too often during cooking. This can cause heat loss and affect cooking times. No peeking until it’s time to shred the chicken!
Using frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always use fresh or thoroughly thawed chicken for best results. This ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly in the allotted time.
Don’t skip the shredding step! It integrates the chicken into the gravy, making every bite delicious. Leaving it in chunks may lead to a less satisfying experience.
Lastly, be cautious about the cooking duration. Overcooking can result in dry chicken, so set your timer and trust the slow cooker to do its job.
nutritional notes (optional)
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a filling dish. However, understanding its nutritional values can help you make informed choices.
Chicken is a great source of lean protein. It provides essential nutrients and minerals important for muscle health. The cream of chicken soup adds some fat and sodium, so keep this in mind.
If you add sour cream, remember it contributes extra calories and fat. It does, however, add richness and flavor.
The overall nutritional content of this dish varies depending on the sides you choose. Serving it over lighter options like steamed vegetables can balance the meal.
Always consider portion sizes when indulging in rich comfort foods. Eating well is all about balance, so enjoy this dish in moderation while savoring its comforting flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
While you can technically use frozen chicken, it’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken. Frozen chicken may not cook evenly in a slow cooker.
Can I leave the chicken in the slow cooker overnight?
It’s not advisable to leave the slow cooker on for too long. Chicken can dry out or become tough if cooked for over 8 hours. Stick to recommended cooking times for best results.
How do I make this dish a bit healthier?
You can opt for skinless chicken thighs, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, and skip sour cream. Adding vegetables is another great way to boost nutrition.
conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy. The combination of tender chicken and rich gravy makes this meal a family favorite regardless of the occasion.
Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, it provides a satisfying meal everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Don’t hesitate to customize the dish to suit your tastes, and do remember to store leftovers properly. Enjoy all that slow cooking has to offer with this warm and comforting recipe!
