Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles – Easy Comfort Food

There is something truly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of chicken and noodles. Whether it is a cold winter evening or just one of those days when you crave something satisfying, Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles is the perfect dish to make. This recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles, all in one pot with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully over time.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of preparation, you can have a meal that tastes like it has been slow-simmered all day. The combination of cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and brown gravy mix creates a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite. Butter adds an extra layer of indulgence, while egg noodles soak up all the delicious flavors.

This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences, adding vegetables, swapping the type of pasta, or even using different seasonings. It is a family-friendly meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, since it is made in a slow cooker, it is perfect for busy weeknights when you do not have the time or energy to stand over the stove.

If you love recipes that require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor, this Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles recipe is a must-try. It is cozy, filling, and the ultimate comfort food. Whether you are cooking for your family or preparing a meal to share with friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves easy, delicious comfort food. One of the biggest reasons you will love this dish is its convenience. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, eliminating the need for multiple pots and pans. There is minimal prep work, and once you set it, you can walk away and let the slow cooker handle the rest.

Another reason to love this recipe is the flavor. The combination of ranch seasoning, brown gravy mix, and cream of chicken soup creates a depth of taste that is rich, creamy, and full of umami. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it slowly cooks, soaking up all the delicious seasonings. When shredded and mixed with the noodles, it results in a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. If you prefer a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can elevate the flavor. You can also swap out the egg noodles for a different type of pasta, such as rotini or bowtie, depending on what you have on hand.

Another reason to love this meal is that it is family-friendly. Kids love the creamy, savory flavors, and it is easy to eat. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers. You can prepare a large batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner over the next few days.

Lastly, this recipe is budget-friendly. It uses affordable ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. With just a few simple components, you can create a meal that feels indulgent and special without breaking the bank. If you are looking for an easy, satisfying, and delicious recipe that requires minimal effort, this is the perfect choice.

Health Benefits

While this recipe leans towards the indulgent side, it still offers some nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Protein also helps keep you full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of snacking between meals.

The dish also contains a good amount of carbohydrates from the egg noodles. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy, making this a great meal for fueling your day. Choosing whole wheat egg noodles can add extra fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.

If you decide to add vegetables to this recipe, you can boost its nutritional value even further. Carrots provide vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, while peas add a dose of vitamin C and fiber. Mushrooms are another great addition, offering antioxidants and B vitamins that support overall well-being.

Using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought can also enhance the health benefits of this dish. Homemade broth is rich in minerals, collagen, and amino acids that support joint health and digestion. Even if you use store-bought broth, choosing a low-sodium version can help reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.

While this meal is creamy and comforting, it can be made slightly lighter by using reduced-fat cream of chicken soup or swapping the butter for a smaller amount of olive oil. Making small adjustments like these can help you enjoy the dish without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe is designed to be as convenient as possible, making it perfect for busy households. The preparation time is minimal, allowing you to quickly assemble everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 7 hours
• Servings: 6

In terms of nutrition, this dish is hearty and filling. While exact values may vary based on ingredients used, an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving is:

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fats: 15-20g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sodium: 800-1000mg (varies depending on ingredients)

This meal is satisfying without being overly heavy. If you want to reduce the calorie count, consider using reduced-fat ingredients or increasing the vegetable content.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious and creamy Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
• 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 tbsp butter (cut into pieces)
• 12 oz egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dish that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Make the Gravy Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, brown gravy mix, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Add the Mixture to the Slow Cooker: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken. This will help keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor.
4. Add Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and place them on top of the chicken and gravy mixture. This adds richness to the dish.
5. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred apart.
6. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. The tender meat will absorb the creamy gravy beautifully.
7. Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, making sure they are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
8. Final Stir and Serve: Once the noodles are cooked, give everything a good stir to ensure all the flavors are combined. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the slow cooker. Scoop generous portions into bowls and pair with warm biscuits or dinner rolls. The rich, creamy sauce is perfect for dipping bread, making it an even more satisfying meal.

Pairing Suggestions

Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks to complete the meal. Whether you are looking for something light to balance out the richness or an extra indulgence to complement the flavors, there are plenty of great options.

Bread and Rolls

One of the best accompaniments to this dish is fresh bread. Warm biscuits, dinner rolls, or a crusty loaf of French bread work beautifully for soaking up the creamy gravy. If you want to go the extra mile, serve garlic bread for an added burst of flavor.

Vegetables

Adding a vegetable side dish can help balance the richness of this meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to introduce some freshness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or asparagus also pair well and add a nice contrast in texture.

Mashed Potatoes

If you are in the mood for extra comfort food, serving this dish with a side of mashed potatoes is a great choice. The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the flavors of the chicken and noodles perfectly.

Coleslaw

For a slightly tangy and crunchy contrast, coleslaw is an excellent option. The acidity and crispness of coleslaw help cut through the richness of the dish, making every bite more enjoyable.

Beverages

When it comes to drinks, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can be a great choice to balance out the richness of the meal. If you prefer something warm, a light herbal tea or even a mild white wine pairs well with the creamy, savory flavors.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This dish is perfect for meal prepping because it stores well and reheats beautifully. Whether you want to keep leftovers in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later, here is how to do it properly.

Storing Leftovers

Once the dish has cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When storing, make sure the noodles are fully covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing Instructions

This meal can be frozen for longer storage, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Noodles tend to absorb liquid over time, so if you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them when reheating. To freeze:

• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

For the best texture and flavor, reheat slowly over low heat.

• Stovetop: Place the desired portion in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Slow Cooker: If you have a larger portion to reheat, you can use the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is easy to follow, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure a perfect dish every time.

Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked, even in a slow cooker. To prevent this, be mindful of the cooking time and check for doneness at the lower end of the recommended time range.

Adding Noodles Too Early

One of the most common mistakes is adding the noodles too soon. If they cook for too long, they will become mushy and absorb too much liquid. Always wait until the last 20-30 minutes of cooking before stirring them in.

Not Shredding the Chicken Properly

For the best texture, take the time to shred the chicken thoroughly. Large chunks may not absorb the sauce as well, leading to an uneven consistency. Using two forks or a hand mixer can help shred it evenly.

Forgetting to Stir Before Serving

Because the ingredients settle during cooking, it is important to give the dish a good stir before serving. This ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of chicken, noodles, and gravy.

Skipping the Butter

While it may be tempting to skip the butter to cut down on fat, it plays a key role in making the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter option, you can reduce the amount, but do not eliminate it entirely.

Pro Tips

Want to take your Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles to the next level? These pro tips will help you make this dish even better.

Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness

If you want even more flavor, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are naturally more tender and juicy, making them an excellent choice for slow cooking.

Make It Extra Creamy

For an even richer texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This adds an extra layer of indulgence to the dish.

Boost the Flavor with Garlic and Onion

Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder enhances the depth of flavor. If you want a more robust taste, sauté some fresh onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.

Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it up. If it is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Try Different Seasonings

While the ranch seasoning and gravy mix create a fantastic base, you can experiment with different flavors. A dash of paprika, thyme, or Italian seasoning can add an interesting twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply simmer the chicken and sauce ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1-2 hours, then add the noodles and cook until tender.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free gravy mix to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I use instead of egg noodles?

You can substitute egg noodles with rotini, bowtie, or even rice for a different texture. If using rice, cook it separately and stir it in before serving.

How can I make this dish healthier?

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduce the butter, and add extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Good Gravy Crock Pot Chicken & Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors and tender chicken. It is easy to make, requires minimal effort, and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or making a cozy dish for a gathering, this recipe is an excellent choice.

Now that you have all the details to make this delicious dish, it is time to try it out for yourself. Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. If you love this recipe, share it with friends and family, and do not forget to leave a comment about how it turned out for you.

Enjoy every comforting bite, and happy cooking!

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