Take It Easy Monday Chicken
A comforting chicken stew with creamy gravy, carrots, and celery—perfect for a relaxed weeknight meal that feeds the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl whisk together 2 Tbsp flour, 1 pkg chicken gravy mix, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1 1/2 cups water until smooth.
- Season 6 skinless chicken pieces with salt and pepper and coat them in the gravy mixture.
- Place the coated chicken into a large Reynolds oven bag, add 4 medium sliced carrots and 2 sliced celery stalks, then seal the bag tightly.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and vegetables are tender.
- Remove from oven, open the bag carefully, and serve hot, letting the rich sauce coat the chicken and vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy mixture. If you don’t have chicken gravy mix, homemade chicken stock can be used as a base. For a thicker sauce, increase the flour or reduce the water slightly. You can substitute chicken pieces with thighs or drumsticks for added moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish serves well over a bed of rice or with mashed potatoes, making it a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Sweet And Savory Rice Pilaf for a balanced side. Consider a green salad or steamed broccoli for a refreshing contrast. Drizzle some of the rich sauce over the sides for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Take It Easy Monday Chicken contains roughly 843 calories, with 37g protein, 179g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), iron (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1994mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken pieces for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken pieces, but ensure to extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Thawing them beforehand is ideal for more even cooking.
What can I substitute for carrots and celery?
You can substitute with other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking. Adding potatoes can also enhance the dish's heartiness.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the gravy mixture. Alternatively, serve with a hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).