This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy dish is a true lifesaver for busy days! Juicy chicken cooks slowly in a rich and creamy gravy, making your home smell amazing.
Honestly, who can resist this comfort food? I love serving it over mashed potatoes or rice—it’s a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything in and relax!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they stay moist. For a change, you could use thighs or drumsticks. Just remember that dark meat may need a little longer to cook.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds richness and flavor. If you want a lighter option, consider using a low-fat version or making a homemade cream sauce from scratch. You can also use cream of mushroom as a substitute if you prefer that flavor.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth lets you control the saltiness. You can substitute vegetable broth for a different taste or if you’re looking for a more vegetarian-friendly option.
Ranch and Italian Dressing Mixes: These mixes add unique flavors. If you don’t have them, you can create your own blend with herbs like dill, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Just adjust to your taste preference!
Sour Cream: It gives a nice creaminess. If you want a dairy-free version, try using plain cashew yogurt or a plant-based sour cream alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The secret to perfect chicken in your crockpot is cooking it low and slow. Here’s what to do:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts directly in the bottom of the crockpot without overlapping.
- Make sure the soup mixture covers the chicken well, as this helps to lock in moisture.
- Try to avoid lifting the lid during cooking—it’s tempting, but every time you do, heat escapes and can extend cooking time.
Lastly, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy when you cut into it!
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Cooking will take 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it, and enjoy a delicious meal at the end of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange them so they aren’t overlapping—this helps them cook evenly!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and Italian dressing mix until everything is well combined. This mixture will give the chicken a fantastic flavor!
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Stir in the Sour Cream:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and set it aside on a plate. Stir the sour cream into the remaining gravy in the crockpot until it’s smooth and creamy. This adds richness to the sauce!
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you want a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the gravy in the crockpot and let it cook on high for another 10-15 minutes, until it thickens up nicely.
6. Season and Serve:
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Return the chicken to the crockpot to warm through. Finally, serve the chicken topped with the creamy gravy and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you’d like.
Enjoy this comforting, creamy crockpot chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal! It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s crucial to extend your cooking time by about an hour. Just ensure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, consider using cream of mushroom soup or making your own white sauce by mixing butter, flour, and chicken broth. This way, you can control the ingredients and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the gravy creamy and moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a plant-based yogurt. Be sure to select a cream of soup that is also dairy-free, or create your own using a dairy-free butter and flour roux!
