This easy crockpot chicken with creamy gravy is a lifesaver for busy nights! With only a few ingredients, it cooks slowly to become tender and full of flavor.
I love how the chicken just falls apart with a fork, and the gravy is perfect over rice or mashed potatoes. It’s such a cozy dish, you’ll feel like a chef with minimal effort! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, chicken breasts keep it lean and tender, but thighs are a great substitute if you prefer darker meat. They add more flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This gives a lot of flavor with little effort. If you can’t find it, you can make your own with dehydrated onion, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt or use a different seasoning blend like Italian herbs.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Standard in many homes, but you could use cream of mushroom or even a homemade version for a healthier option. Just blend cooked chicken, broth, and a little heavy cream to make a silky base!
Sour Cream: This adds a nice tang. You can swap with Greek yogurt for a healthier choice or even cream cheese for a richer texture. Both alternatives change the flavor slightly, so pick what you like!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Tender?
To make sure your chicken turns out perfectly tender, follow these simple tips:
- Keep the chicken breasts whole until after they’re cooked. This helps retain moisture.
- Cook on low heat if you have the time; this allows flavors to meld and makes the chicken extra tender.
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking! Each time it’s opened, you lose heat, extending the cooking time.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with a delicious chicken that practically melts in your mouth! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day—set it up in the morning and have dinner ready by the time you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are in a single layer so they cook evenly.
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the chicken. This will add a delicious flavor that permeates the chicken as it cooks.
3. Mixing the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour and Cook:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, covering the chicken completely. Then, cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is really tender.
5. Finish the Gravy:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it and set it aside to keep warm. If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot and cook on high for about 15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the crockpot, making sure it’s well coated with the creamy gravy. Just before serving, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh touch. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles for a comforting meal!
Enjoy your comforting and easy crockpot chicken with creamy gravy! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low or about an hour on high. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Absolutely! You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or cream cheese for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the chicken and gravy gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and creamy sauce the night before, store it in the fridge, and then transfer it to the crockpot in the morning. Just remember to cook it for the same recommended times.
