Cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker is an ideal kitchen appliance for busy people who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker, provide some tips and tricks for achieving the best results, and share some mouth-watering recipes to try.
The Benefits of Cooking Chicken in Gravy in a Slow Cooker
Cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: The slow cooker is a hands-off kitchen appliance that allows you to cook your meal while you are busy with other activities.
- Tender and juicy chicken: The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Rich and flavorful gravy: The slow cooker allows the gravy to simmer for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce that is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- Easy to prepare: Cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker is a simple process that requires minimal preparation and effort.
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken
When cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker, it’s essential to choose the right cut of chicken. The best cuts of chicken for slow cooking are those that are high in connective tissue, such as:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are the most popular cut of chicken for slow cooking, as they are tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Bone-in chicken thighs: These are another great option for slow cooking, as the bone helps to add flavor to the gravy.
- Chicken breasts: While chicken breasts can be used for slow cooking, they can become dry if overcooked. It’s essential to cook them on low for a shorter period to prevent drying out.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Chicken in Gravy in a Slow Cooker
To achieve the best results when cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker, follow these tips and tricks:
- Brown the chicken: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker helps to create a rich and flavorful gravy.
- Use a mixture of broth and gravy: Using a mixture of broth and gravy helps to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Add aromatics: Adding aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery helps to add flavor to the gravy.
- Cook on low: Cooking on low helps to prevent the chicken from drying out and ensures that the gravy is rich and flavorful.
Basic Recipe for Cooking Chicken in Gravy in a Slow Cooker
Here is a basic recipe for cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of gravy
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, gravy, and dried thyme to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Delicious Recipes to Try
Here are some delicious recipes to try when cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker:
Recipe 1: Chicken and Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of gravy
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, onion, garlic, chicken broth, gravy, and dried thyme to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Recipe 2: Chicken and Bacon Gravy
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of gravy
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add the diced bacon, sliced onion, garlic, chicken broth, gravy, and dried thyme to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker is a delicious and easy meal solution that is perfect for busy people. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful gravy. Try one of the recipes outlined above and enjoy a mouth-watering meal with minimal effort.
| Recipe | Cooking Time | Serves |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Recipe | 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high) | 4-6 people |
| Chicken and Mushroom Gravy | 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high) | 4-6 people |
| Chicken and Bacon Gravy | 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high) | 4-6 people |
By following the recipes and tips outlined in this article, you can create delicious and mouth-watering meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, cooking chicken in gravy in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal for you and your family.
What are the benefits of cooking chicken in a slow cooker?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a meal because it is easy and convenient. Simply place the chicken and your desired seasonings in the slow cooker, and let it cook while you are busy with other tasks. This method is also great for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Another benefit of cooking chicken in a slow cooker is that it is a healthy way to prepare a meal. The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to retain the nutrients in the chicken, making it a great option for those looking for a healthy meal solution. Additionally, you can add a variety of vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken, making it a great way to get in some extra nutrients.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker, it is essential to cook it in a liquid, such as broth or gravy. This will help to keep the chicken moist and add flavor to the dish. You can also add some fat, such as butter or oil, to the slow cooker to help keep the chicken moist.
Another way to prevent the chicken from drying out is to cook it on a lower heat setting. Cooking the chicken on low for a longer period will help to prevent it from drying out, as it will cook more slowly and evenly. You can also check on the chicken periodically to ensure that it is not overcooking.
Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. However, it is essential to note that frozen chicken will take longer to cook than fresh chicken. You should add an extra 30 minutes to an hour to the cooking time to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
When using frozen chicken in the slow cooker, it is also essential to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken is cooked safely.
How do I make a rich and flavorful gravy in the slow cooker?
To make a rich and flavorful gravy in the slow cooker, you can use a combination of broth, wine, and spices. You can also add some flour or cornstarch to the slow cooker to thicken the gravy. Simply mix the flour or cornstarch with a small amount of water or broth to make a slurry, and then add it to the slow cooker.
Another way to make a rich and flavorful gravy is to use the juices from the chicken. You can strain the juices from the slow cooker and then simmer them on the stovetop to reduce them and concentrate the flavors. You can then whisk in some butter or cream to enrich the gravy and give it a smooth texture.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken. In fact, this is a great way to make a complete meal in one pot. You can add a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, to the slow cooker with the chicken.
When adding vegetables to the slow cooker, it is essential to consider the cooking time. Some vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, take longer to cook than others, such as green beans and peas. You can add the vegetables to the slow cooker at different times to ensure that they are cooked to your liking.
How do I serve the chicken and gravy from the slow cooker?
There are many ways to serve the chicken and gravy from the slow cooker. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with some steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Another way to serve the chicken and gravy is to shred the chicken and serve it on a bun, such as a sandwich or a wrap. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or over some roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with how you serve the chicken and gravy.
Can I make the chicken and gravy in the slow cooker ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and gravy in the slow cooker ahead of time. In fact, this is one of the benefits of using a slow cooker. You can cook the chicken and gravy on low for several hours, and then keep it warm until you are ready to serve.
When making the chicken and gravy ahead of time, it is essential to ensure that it is kept at a safe temperature. You can keep it warm in the slow cooker on the low setting, or you can transfer it to a thermos or a chafing dish to keep it warm. You can also refrigerate or freeze it and then reheat it when you are ready to serve.