There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty, creamy chicken dish that practically cooks itself. Enter the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy—a recipe that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, velvety gravy, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you crave a warm, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
Recipe:
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a one-pot wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The dish features juicy, tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, savory gravy made with cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and a packet of chicken gravy mix. A touch of sour cream adds a tangy richness, while garlic and onion powders infuse the dish with depth and warmth. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
To make this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 packet chicken gravy mix
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup sour cream
These ingredients are easy to find and come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Directions/Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy:
1. **Prepare the Slow Cooker:** Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
2. **Season the Chicken:** Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. **Mix the Sauces:** In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined and smooth.
4. **Pour Over Chicken:** Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. **Cook on Low:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
6. **Add Sour Cream:** Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a plate. Stir the sour cream into the gravy until fully incorporated. This step adds a creamy, tangy finish to the dish.
7. **Shred the Chicken:** Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the gravy.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the creamy chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
FAQ:
1. **Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?**
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Thighs are slightly more flavorful and tender, making them a great alternative. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook faster.
2. **Can I make this recipe dairy-free?**
To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cream of chicken and mushroom soups, and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
3. **How do I store leftovers?**
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the gravy thickens too much.
4. **Can I freeze this dish?**
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. **What can I serve with this dish?**
This creamy chicken and gravy pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious gravy.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its tender chicken, rich gravy, and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a hassle-free dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. So, grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!