Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy is a remarkable dish that will transform your weeknight dinners. With just three ingredients, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy families. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare, versatile enough for various occasions, and delivers comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have dinner ready with little effort.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of chicken thighs, cream of chicken soup, and gravy mix creates a rich and savory flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a delightful meal that suits your family’s taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish provides a comforting meal that fills you up without needing complicated ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you create this delicious dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This appliance allows slow cooking, ensuring your chicken turns out tender and flavorful without constant monitoring.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly, saving time during preparation.
• Whisk: Helps blend the cream of chicken soup with gravy mix and broth seamlessly for an even texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Dish

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

Step 1: Arrange the Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in the crockpot. You may season them lightly with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth.

Step 3: Pour Mixture Over Chicken

Carefully pour the creamy mixture over the arranged chicken in the crockpot. Ensure all pieces are well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces right in the crockpot. Serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes like rice or mashed potatoes for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy is an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience and make it even more delightful for your family.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over a fluffy bed of rice for a comforting and filling meal. The rice absorbs the rich gravy, making every bite delicious.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair your chicken with creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy from the dish adds flavor to the potatoes, creating a perfect combination.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas for a fun twist. Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, or salsa for extra flavor.

On a Salad

• For a healthier option, top a fresh salad with shredded chicken and gravy. This adds protein while keeping the meal light and refreshing.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables. This not only balances your plate but also adds nutritional value to your meal.

As a Sandwich

• Use the shredded chicken as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. Add some pickles or coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

To make sure your Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality chicken thighs: Opt for fresh, boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best texture and flavor.
• Season generously: Don’t skip seasoning; salt and pepper enhance the dish’s overall taste. Feel free to add other spices if you prefer.
• Mix well: Ensure that you whisk the cream of chicken soup, gravy mix, and broth thoroughly for an even consistency.
• Don’t rush cooking: Allowing the chicken to cook on low heat helps it become tender and infused with flavors.
• Shred before serving: Shredding the chicken just before serving allows it to soak up more of the savory gravy.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, let it cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes at the end.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

When enjoying Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy, side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter complements the rich flavors of the dish.
2. Green Beans: Steamed green beans add freshness and crunch, balancing out the hearty main course.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this one.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken and gravy.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add both texture and nutrition to your meal.
6. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots offer natural sweetness that goes well with savory flavors.
7. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
8. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash adds a hint of sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s success. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Skipping seasoning: Many forget to season the chicken before cooking. Adding salt and pepper enhances the flavor significantly.
• Using high heat: Cooking on high may dry out the chicken. Stick to low heat for tender, juicy thighs.
• Not shredding properly: If you don’t shred the chicken enough, it may not absorb the gravy well. Use two forks to break it into bite-sized pieces.
• Ignoring cook time: Cooking for too long can lead to overcooked chicken. Check for doneness around the 4-hour mark.
• Neglecting sides: Forgetting to pair your meal with sides can make it less satisfying. Consider serving with rice or vegetables.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use bone-in thighs; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy healthier?

Consider using low-sodium soup and gravy mix, or add more vegetables like carrots or peas.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs or spices like garlic powder or thyme for extra flavor.

What is the best side dish for Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy?

Rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy is not only simple but also versatile and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing you to customize flavors according to your family’s preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!