3 Ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to easy and comforting meals, few recipes can compete with 3-ingredient crockpot chicken and gravy. This dish is the epitome of simplicity, requiring just three basic ingredients and minimal preparation. Yet, despite its simplicity, it delivers a rich and satisfying flavor that will have everyone cleaning their plates. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or just looking for a hearty meal with minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for you.

Importance of Simple Ingredients

One of the biggest advantages of this crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is its use of minimal ingredients. In a world where time is often short, having a go-to recipe that requires only three ingredients is invaluable. Using fewer ingredients doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. In fact, focusing on just a few key components allows each one to shine, creating a dish that’s both simple and delicious.

For more ideas on how to create healthy crockpot meals with minimal ingredients, check out this resource.

Ingredients Overview

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity:

  • Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Both work well, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
  • Gravy Mix: The choice of gravy mix is crucial. You can go for a classic chicken gravy mix, or if you want to experiment, try a mushroom or herb-flavored mix.
  • Liquid (Broth or Water): This helps to cook the chicken to tender perfection and creates a savory gravy. Chicken broth adds extra depth of flavor, but water works just as well in a pinch.

Curious about more tips for slow cooking chicken? This guide provides excellent advice on how to get the most out of your slow cooker.

Preparation Steps

Preparing this 3-ingredient crockpot chicken and gravy couldn’t be easier:

  1. Layering: Start by placing the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Mixing: In a separate bowl, combine the gravy mix with the liquid (broth or water). Stir until the mix is fully dissolved.
  3. Pouring: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring that it’s well covered.
  4. Cooking: Set your crockpot on low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

For a delicious dessert to pair with this comforting dish, consider trying the cinnamon sugar baked peaches. The sweetness of the peaches complements the savory notes of the chicken and gravy perfectly.

Cooking Process

The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the gravy mix, resulting in a dish that’s incredibly tender and flavorful. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Cooking Time: On low, the dish will take about 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but the chicken may not be as tender.
  • Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and gravy dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides:

  • Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich gravy perfectly.
  • With Rice: A bed of fluffy rice soaks up the savory gravy, making each bite a delight.
  • On Bread: Serve it over toasted bread or rolls for a hearty, open-faced sandwich.

For a unique twist, consider making Reese’s chocolate peanut butter lasagna as a decadent dessert option. Its rich, chocolatey layers will provide a delightful contrast to the savory meal.

Suggested Side Dishes:

  • Steamed vegetables
  • Garden salad
  • Roasted potatoes

Recipe Variations

While the basic 3-ingredient crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

  • Adding Vegetables: Throw in some carrots, potatoes, or peas for a more complete meal.
  • Spicing It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give the dish a kick.
  • Creamier Version: Stir in a can of cream of chicken soup to make the gravy even richer and creamier.

Health Considerations

Despite its simplicity, this dish is packed with nutrients:

  • Protein: The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Low Sodium: Opt for a low-sodium gravy mix and broth to keep the dish heart-healthy.
  • Calories: By choosing lean cuts of chicken like breast, you can keep the calorie count low.

For those with dietary restrictions, be sure to check the gravy mix ingredients for potential allergens like gluten or dairy.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Q2: What can I substitute for the gravy mix?
If you prefer not to use a store-bought mix, you can make your own gravy using a roux (flour and butter) and chicken broth, seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Use the “Poultry” setting for about 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Conclusion

In summary, this 3-ingredient crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal with minimal fuss. With just three ingredients, you can create a hearty, flavorful dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or bread, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

For more ideas on how to enhance your meals, explore homemade gravy recipes that can add a personal touch to this dish here.

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3 Ingredient Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food


  • Author: joe

Ingredients

– 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs

1 packet chicken gravy mix

1 cup chicken broth or water


Instructions

1. Place the chicken at the bottom of your crockpot. 2. In a separate bowl, mix the gravy packet with the chicken broth or water until fully dissolved. 3. Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well covered. 4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. 5. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or bread with your favorite sides.

Notes

For a creamier version, add a can of cream of chicken soup to the gravy mix. If the gravy is too thick, thin it out with a bit more broth or water. If too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken.

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