This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is a simple and delicious weeknight meal. With only three ingredients, you can have a comforting dinner ready with minimal effort. Serve the tender shredded chicken over hot steamed rice alongside some green beans for a kid-friendly dish the whole family will love.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (10.5-ounce) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
2 (0.87-ounce) envelopes of chicken gravy mix
1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional)
Hot steamed rice, for serving

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and water or chicken broth (if using).
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours.
Before serving, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Serve the shredded chicken and gravy over hot steamed rice.

Nutrients

Calories: Approximately 157 calories per serving.
Protein: Approximately 24.75 grams per serving.
Fat: Approximately 4.45 grams per serving.
Carbohydrates: Approximately 3.75 grams per serving.
Sodium: Approximately 438 milligrams per serving.

History and Popularity of Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy

Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy is a comforting and hearty dish that has been a staple in many households, particularly in the United States. This meal is rooted in the tradition of slow-cooked, tender meats with rich, flavorful sauces, which have long been a part of Southern and Midwestern cuisine. The convenience of the slow cooker has made this dish even more popular in modern kitchens, allowing families to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Over the years, the demand for easy, dump-and-go recipes has increased, making slow cooker meals like this a favorite. The combination of chicken and gravy is a classic comfort food that has been adapted in various ways to suit different taste preferences. Some people add vegetables like carrots and peas, while others incorporate different seasonings or even cream cheese for extra richness.

Why People Love Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy

One of the biggest reasons people love this dish is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, anyone can create a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Since it only requires a slow cooker, minimal prep work, and a few ingredients, it’s an ideal meal for busy individuals, parents, and anyone looking for a hassle-free dinner option. Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. This dish can be served in many ways—over rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even biscuits. The thick, flavorful gravy complements a variety of sides, making it easy to customize. Additionally, slow cooking ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy fall-apart meat in their meals.

The Role of Slow Cookers in Modern Cooking

Slow cookers have revolutionized home cooking, offering an easy way to prepare meals with minimal supervision. The low and slow cooking method allows flavors to develop deeply, making simple ingredients taste even better. The Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy recipe is a prime example of how a slow cooker can transform basic ingredients into a rich, comforting meal. For busy households, slow cookers provide a way to prepare dinner in advance. Instead of standing over a stove, people can add the ingredients to the pot in the morning and return home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal. This convenience has contributed significantly to the popularity of slow cooker recipes, making them a go-to solution for home cooks of all skill levels.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy is delicious and satisfying, it can be high in sodium due to the use of canned soups and gravy mixes. Fortunately, there are ways to make it healthier without compromising on flavor.

Low-Sodium Options: Opting for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and gravy mix can significantly reduce the sodium content.
Homemade Gravy: Instead of using a store-bought gravy mix, a homemade version made with chicken broth, cornstarch, and seasonings can be a healthier alternative.
Adding Vegetables: Including vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or green beans can increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
Using Skinless Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts are typically used in this recipe, skinless chicken thighs offer a more tender texture and a richer flavor while still being a lean protein source.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy

The beauty of this dish is that it pairs well with many different sides. Some of the best options include:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the thick, savory gravy perfectly.
Rice: White or brown rice serves as a neutral base that soaks up the flavorful gravy.
Egg Noodles: The rich sauce coats the noodles beautifully, making for a satisfying meal.
Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits make a perfect vessel for scooping up the delicious gravy.
Steamed Vegetables: A side of broccoli, green beans, or carrots balances out the richness of the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy is an excellent meal for meal prep, as it stores well and can be easily reheated.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. It can also be reheated in the microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

Variations and Customizations

There are many ways to put a unique spin on this classic recipe:

Spicy Version: Adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can give the dish a slight kick.
Cheesy Twist: Stirring in some shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Mushroom Gravy: Adding fresh or canned mushrooms enhances the umami flavor of the dish.
Ranch-Style Chicken & Gravy: Mixing in a packet of ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its simplicity and ability to be customized make it a staple recipe for home cooks looking for a no-fuss meal that the whole family will love.

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