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This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want a comforting meal with minimal effort. It transforms simple pantry staples into a creamy, flavorful dish that feels like home on a plate without fussing over the stove.
I started making this after a hectic day when I needed dinner ready and waiting. It quickly became a favorite for those cozy evenings when comfort food hits the spot.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts: Approximately 1.5 pounds — a lean protein that stays tender during slow cooking
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix: One ounce — adds a punch of herb and buttermilk flavor boosting the savoriness naturally
- 1 packet brown gravy mix: One ounce — creates a smooth, rich gravy base that thickens perfectly
- 1 cup chicken broth: ensures the gravy remains flavorful and not too thick
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Ten and a half ounce can — adds creaminess and depth to the sauce
- Half a cup sour cream: stirred in at the end for extra richness and a slight tang
- Salt and pepper to taste: seasoning is key adjust to suit your palate
- Chopped parsley for garnish: adds fresh herb aroma and a pop of color
Instructions
- Place The Chicken:
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly in your crockpot. This ensures they cook consistently and stay juicy.
- Mix The Sauce:
- In a separate mixing bowl combine the ranch dressing mix brown gravy mix chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Whisk everything together until smooth and fully blended. This sauce mixture is what turns into that luscious gravy.
- Coat And Cook:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Gently make sure each breast is coated by the mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for six hours. This slow cook time tenderizes the chicken and melds the flavors beautifully.
- Shred The Chicken:
- When the chicken is cooked through and tender remove the lid. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot mixing it into the gravy to soak up all that flavor.
- Finish With Sour Cream And Season:
- Stir in the sour cream thoroughly to add creaminess and a slight tang to the dish. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve:
- Serve this chicken and gravy over warm rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh herbal touch.
I love how the ranch dressing mix brings a hint of herbaceous brightness that lifts the whole dish. This recipe has become a staple during colder months and always reminds me of family dinners filled with laughter and good conversation.
Storage Tips
Cool the chicken and gravy completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer-safe containers up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Swaps
If you want to skip the ranch packet try adding dried herbs like parsley dill and chives with a bit of garlic powder to mimic that flavor. Use a cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a different twist. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter finish but add it off heat to prevent curdling.
Serving Ideas
This chicken and gravy are classic over fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. You can also spoon it over buttered egg noodles or roasted vegetables for a comforting one-pot style dinner. Serve with a crisp green salad or sautéed greens to balance the rich sauce.
Enjoy this easy comforting meal that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What cuts of chicken work best here?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they shred easily and absorb flavors well during slow cooking.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding chopped onions or garlic enhances the flavor and adds some texture to the gravy base.
- → How long should it cook in the crockpot?
Cooking on low heat for about 6 hours ensures the chicken becomes tender and the gravy thickens properly.
- → What sides complement this chicken preparation?
Serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles balances the rich gravy and tender chicken beautifully.
- → How can leftovers be preserved?
Leftover portions freeze well in airtight containers and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.