Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Few meals evoke the warmth and comfort of home like slow-cooked chicken and gravy. This classic dish, with its tender chicken and rich, savory gravy, is perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or any time you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic of slow cooking, which melds the flavors beautifully and yields a deliciously tender result. Let’s explore how to create this comforting dish, delving into the ingredients, preparation, and tips for perfecting your slow-cooked chicken and gravy.

The Appeal of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a method that allows flavors to develop gradually and ingredients to become incredibly tender. Using a slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, makes this process effortless. Simply combine your ingredients, set the cooker, and let it work its magic. This method is perfect for busy families or anyone who prefers hands-off cooking.

Ingredients for Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy

For this recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish:

• Chicken:
  • 4-6 boneless, skin

less chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier during slow cooking.

• Chicken Broth:
  • 2 cups of chicken broth. Homemade or low-sodium store-bought broth is ideal.
• Cream of Chicken Soup:
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup. This adds richness to the gravy.
• Onion:
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Onions provide a depth of flavor to the gravy.
• Garlic:
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cornstarch (optional):
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to thicken the gravy, if needed.
• Optional Extras:
  • Fresh herbs like parsley for garnish.

Instructions for Preparing Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   • Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with

a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Mix the Gravy:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, condensed cream of chicken soup, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Pour Over Chicken:
   • Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well covered.
5. Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork.
6. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
   • If you prefer a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, cover, and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
7. Serve:
   • Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Serve the chicken and gravy hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooked chicken and gravy pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
• Rice:
  • Fluffy white or brown rice provides a nice base for the flavorful chicken and gravy.
• Noodles:
  • Serve over egg noodles or pasta for a comforting, hearty dish.
• Vegetables:
  • Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Biscuits:
  • Homemade or store-bought biscuits are excellent for sopping up the delicious gravy.

Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy

• Chicken Selection:
  • Using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture. You can remove the bones before serving for easier eating.
• Flavor Enhancements:
  • Add a splash of white wine or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Consistency:
  • If the gravy is too thin, thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick, thin it with a bit more chicken broth.
• Herb Variations:
  • Experiment with different herbs like sage, oregano, or a bay leaf to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Slow cooked chicken and gravy is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and tender chicken make it a favorite for family meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a hearty, delicious dish that will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

So, the next time you’re looking for an easy yet impressive meal, turn to this slow cooked chicken and gravy recipe. Gather your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.