Introduction
As autumn leaves turn and a crisp chill fills the air, our kitchens call for dishes offering warmth and comfort. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a slow-cooked meal, promising a hearty reward with minimal fuss. This Fall Inspired Crockpot Chicken and Gravy embodies everything we love about autumn cooking: rich, savory flavors, tender chicken, and a luscious gravy. It’s the perfect ‘set it and forget it’ solution for busy weekdays or cozy weekend gatherings, delivering a taste of home without the stress.
Ingredients
Gathering ingredients for this comforting dish is straightforward, using pantry staples and fresh produce that sing with the season. You’ll need 2-2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed. For the aromatic base, prepare 1 large yellow onion, chopped, 3 medium carrots, peeled and roughly chopped, and 2 stalks celery, chopped. For the liquid, have 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. A bay leaf adds subtle depth. For the decadent gravy, you’ll need ¼ cup cornstarch dissolved in ¼ cup cold water (a ‘slurry’). A tablespoon of olive oil for browning, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh parsley for garnish complete our ensemble.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step enhances flavor.
2. Layer the Base: Place chopped onions, carrots, and celery at the bottom of your 6-quart crockpot.
3. Add Chicken and Seasonings: Arrange seared (or raw) chicken over the vegetables. Sprinkle with dried thyme and add the bay leaf. Pour in chicken broth, ensuring chicken is mostly submerged.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken is fork-tender.
5. Shred the Chicken: Remove cooked chicken and shred using two forks. Discard the bay leaf.
6. Make the Gravy: Strain liquid from the crockpot into a saucepan, discarding vegetables (or mash them in). Bring liquid to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk in your cornstarch slurry and continue whisking until gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine and Serve: Return shredded chicken to the crockpot or a serving dish. Pour warm gravy over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips
For maximum flavor, don’t skip browning the chicken. If using breasts, avoid overcooking them. When thickening gravy, ensure cornstarch is thoroughly mixed with cold water to prevent lumps; slowly whisk into simmering broth. If too thin, add more slurry; too thick, add hot chicken broth. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or egg noodles, allowing every drop of exquisite gravy to be savored. A touch of heavy cream at the end adds richness.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Customize this comforting dish. Add sliced mushrooms or parsnips for an earthy twist. A splash of dry white wine or apple cider vinegar brightens the sauce. For a creamier sauce, incorporate a can of cream of mushroom or chicken soup at the start, reducing initial broth. A pinch of rubbed sage or fresh rosemary enhances fall flavors. Experiment with sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and color. For a smoky note, a strip of bacon or smoked paprika can be a delightful addition.
Conclusion
This Fall Inspired Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is more than a meal; it’s a culinary hug, inviting you to gather and enjoy the season’s simple pleasures. Its effortless preparation and deeply satisfying flavors make it an instant classic for busy home cooks. So, embrace autumn days with this comforting dish, letting your slow cooker do the hard work while you savor a truly delicious, home-cooked meal.