If you’ve been searching for a comfort food classic that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish effortlessly combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, flavorful gravy, all made easy by your slow cooker. With minimal prep and ingredients that bring depth, creaminess, and a hint of savory herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the flavor and texture without complicated prep work or unusual items. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe to life:
- 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless skinless): The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory base for the gravy.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Provides a blend of herbs and spices with a creamy, tangy punch; Hidden Valley is my go-to brand.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the depth of flavor with subtle garlicky warmth.
- Pepper (to taste): A pinch or two to balance and brighten the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water: This slurry thickens the gravy to the perfect silky texture.
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix: Adds robust, comforting flavor and helps achieve that classic homemade gravy feel.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base
Start by combining the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and freshly ground pepper directly in your slow cooker. Whisk everything together until the powders dissolve completely. This simple step ensures all those fantastic flavors marry together evenly and create a delicious liquid base that will turn into the rich gravy we’re after.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Slow Cook
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the broth mixture, making sure they’re mostly submerged. If any chicken pieces peek out, spoon a bit more liquid over the top. Set your Crockpot on high for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or low for 6 to 8 hours if you want to plan ahead. This slow cooking process is the secret to tender, juicy chicken that effortlessly shreds and soaks up those savory flavors.
Step 3: Thicken the Gravy
Once the chicken is cooked through, gently remove it from the Crockpot and set aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry, then pour it into the slow cooker along with the chicken gravy mix. Switch the heat setting to high if it isn’t already, and whisk continuously to dissolve the gravy mix as the sauce thickens. While you do this, shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot, cover, and let it cook for a few more minutes until the gravy reaches a luscious, thick consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Now, your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is ready to serve. The intoxicating aroma of warm gravy and tender chicken is sure to gather everyone at the table. Plate it alongside your favorite sides and get ready for a comforting, flavor-packed meal.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme make fantastic garnishes that add vibrant green color and a fresh note, lifting the rich gravy perfectly. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can also add just the right hint of spice to round out the flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of gravy, buttery egg noodles tossed in a little olive oil, or a bed of fluffy white rice. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also add a nice balance and a pop of color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy twist, serve the chicken and gravy over warm biscuits or inside fluffy bread bowls for a hands-on experience. You can also layer it over savory polenta or even use it as a filling for pot pies to impress guests with a unique presentation while sticking to that soul-warming flavor you love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, be sure to transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When frozen, it can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a ready-made comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and gravy on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to the perfect consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, just make sure to stir halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to stay juicy and tender during slow cooking and can add a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook a little faster depending on their size.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free chicken gravy mix and ensuring your ranch seasoning does not contain gluten. Also, opt for gluten-free cornstarch if needed.
Can I prepare this recipe in a regular pot on the stove?
You can, but the slow cooker really does make the flavors deepen and the chicken incredibly tender. On the stove, simmer the ingredients gently over low heat for about an hour or until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can substitute with a blend of dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. This homemade mix won’t be exactly the same, but it will still provide a delicious savory base.
How thick should the gravy be?
The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, silky and luscious, not runny. If it’s too thin, you can mix a little more cornstarch with cold water and add it gradually while stirring until you reach your desired thickness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that’s as easy as it is satisfying, the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe should definitely be on your dinner rotation. It’s a dish that combines wholesome ingredients, effortless cooking, and delicious results in the best possible way. Give it a try, invite your favorite people, and prepare to experience comfort food at its finest.
Print
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked slowly in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth, ranch seasoning, and garlic powder. Thickened with a savory chicken gravy mix, it’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth Mixture
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (Hidden Valley recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pepper, to taste
Thickening Agents and Gravy
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Broth Mixture: In your slow cooker, add the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and pepper. Whisk well until all the powder ingredients have completely dissolved in the broth, ensuring an even flavor base for the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker and make sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. If needed, spoon some of the broth over the chicken to cover it. Cook on high heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, or alternatively on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Make the Gravy and Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker along with the chicken gravy mix while the slow cooker is set to high. Whisk thoroughly until the gravy mix is dissolved and incorporated. Meanwhile, shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine and Thicken the Gravy: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on high for a few more minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the gravy has thickened and the chicken is heated through, serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless skinless thighs for a juicier result.
- Adjust the pepper quantity based on your spice preference.
- The gravy thickens as it cooks; if it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the ranch seasoning and gravy mix are certified gluten-free or prepare homemade seasoning blends.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve moisture.
