Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Slow cooker recipes possess a remarkable ability to facilitate our daily routines while delivering delectable meals that seem as if they required extensive kitchen labor. There is an unparalleled comfort in arriving home to the inviting aroma of a slow-cooked meal, and this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe encapsulates that experience perfectly. Imagine succulent chicken breasts immersed in a rich, silky gravy, prepared with minimal intervention from your end. This dish is a godsend for various lifestyles, whether you are a busy professional, a parent managing multiple duties, or simply an aficionado of fine cuisine. The beauty of the slow cooker lies in its capacity to harmonize flavors meticulously over time, creating a meal that is both delicious and deeply satisfying.

For the busy professional, the slow cooker is an invaluable kitchen ally, transforming raw ingredients into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Parents, often balancing numerous responsibilities, will appreciate how this dish can be prepped in the morning and be ready to serve by dinner time. The tender, juicy chicken paired with a velvety gravy is a hit with children and adults alike, making it a versatile option for family dinners. For those who cherish good food, the slow cooker chicken and gravy offer a comforting dish that feels like a warm embrace at the end of a long day.

This blog post will guide you through the process of creating this exquisite dish, from the initial preparation to the final, comforting bite. We will explore the essential ingredients, the step-by-step cooking method, and some tips and tricks to elevate the flavors even further. By the end, you will have mastered a recipe that not only satisfies the palate but also fits seamlessly into your busy life. So, let’s embark on this culinary journey and unveil the secrets to making the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy, a dish designed to bring comfort and joy to your dining table.

Simple Yet Flavorful

The beauty of a slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe lies in its simplicity and the clever use of readily available ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. The base of the gravy is a combination of chicken gravy mix and condensed cream of chicken soup, which provides a rich and creamy texture that envelops each bite. These pantry staples, when combined, lay the foundation for a luscious and savory sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.

To enhance the flavor profile, a blend of garlic powder, kosher salt, paprika, and coarse ground black pepper is used. These seasonings not only imbue the chicken with a wonderful depth of flavor but also ensure that the gravy is anything but bland. Garlic powder adds a subtle aromatic note, while kosher salt brings out the natural flavors of the chicken. Paprika introduces a mild smokiness, and the coarse ground black pepper provides a gentle heat, rounding out the seasoning mix.

The chicken breasts are the star of this dish. When slow-cooked, they become incredibly tender and juicy, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the gravy. As the chicken cooks, it releases its juices, which meld with the gravy mix and soup, creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and delectable. The slow cooker method ensures that the chicken remains moist and succulent, making each bite a delight.

 Crafting the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Creating a delectable slow cooker chicken and gravy dish is as straightforward as it is gratifying. Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with a careful balance of garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. This initial step is crucial as it ensures that the chicken is imbued with flavor right from the outset.

Next, take your slow cooker and whisk together water, chicken gravy mix, condensed cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and pepper. This mixture forms the rich, luscious gravy that will cook with the chicken, infusing it with deep and savory flavors. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring to flip them over to coat them thoroughly in the gravy mixture.

Once the chicken is well-coated, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on a low setting for 4 to 5 hours. During this time, the slow cooker will tenderize the chicken and allow the various flavors to meld harmoniously. The slow, gentle cooking process is essential for achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. You can either shred the chicken using two forks or cut it into desired pieces, depending on your preference. This step allows you to ensure that the chicken is evenly distributed and ready to be served.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While the slow cooker chicken and gravy is a star in its own right, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal even further. Consider serving the chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. The rich, savory gravy will soak into the starch, creating an even more comforting and satisfying dish.

For a touch of freshness, add a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli. These vegetables provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy chicken and gravy. Their vibrant colors and crisp texture add both visual appeal and a nutritional boost to your meal.

A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also be a great accompaniment. The acidity and crunch of the salad balance the richness of the slow cooker chicken and gravy, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience. Consider including ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for added flavor and texture.

If you’re feeling indulgent, a warm, buttery biscuit on the side can help sop up any remaining gravy on your plate. The flaky layers of the biscuit perfectly complement the creamy gravy, making each bite a delight. You might also consider serving crusty bread or dinner rolls for a similar effect.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 packets chicken gravy mix
• 1 1/4 cup Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (don’t dilute before measuring)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 3 whole chicken breasts , boneless, skinless (about a pound)
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, black pepper and salt.
2. In slow cooker, whisk together the water, gravy packets, condensed chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, paprika and pepper until smooth
3. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and flip on both sides to coat well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
5. When done, carefully remove chicken, shred or cut as desired.
6. Whisk the sour cream into the slow cooker until smooth and serve over chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 205kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 572mg | Potassium: 399mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 285IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg