If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, savory gravy that’s bursting with comforting flavors. The magic happens when you let the slow cooker do all the work, creating a luscious meal that tastes like it simmered all day, but with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes and quickly becomes a go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. The list is simple, but don’t be fooled—the quality and combination of these essentials are what make this gravy truly irresistible.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base, ensuring tender, juicy meat that easily absorbs the delicious gravy flavors.
- 2 packets (0.87 oz each) chicken gravy mix: The secret to that thick, flavorful gravy that clings to every shred of chicken.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and a silky texture that makes the gravy irresistible.
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while building a savory depth to the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a robust, warming undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Lends just enough heat to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional): Stirred in at the end for extra creaminess and a slight tangy touch that elevates the gravy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
Begin by whisking together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and thyme in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This step is crucial because it activates the flavors that will infuse the chicken during cooking, making every bite savory and satisfying.
Step 2: Place the Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Nestle the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Using breasts gives you lean, juicy meat that shreds beautifully after cooking, but feel free to substitute thighs if you prefer something richer and more succulent.
Step 3: Pour the Gravy Mixture Over the Chicken
Slowly pour the prepared gravy over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are covered. The slow cooker will work its magic with this gravy base, gently breaking down the chicken as it cooks and infusing it with flavor.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken can be easily shredded with a fork. This is where the “slow” in the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe really pays off, creating melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Finish the Gravy
Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir everything together to ensure every bit of chicken is coated in the luscious gravy. This is also the perfect time to stir in the optional sour cream if you want the gravy even creamier and more luxurious.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can brighten up the dish and add some fresh texture. Consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves on top to enhance the herbal notes and add a pop of color that invites you in. A little cracked black pepper on top can also lift the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This chicken and gravy masterpiece pairs wonderfully with classic comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless choice, soaking up all that savory gravy. Rice or buttered egg noodles are fantastic alternatives that complement the silky texture. For a veggie boost, steamed green beans or roasted carrots add color and crunch to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or mix things up? Serve the shredded chicken and gravy over a flaky biscuit or toasted English muffin for an elevated comfort food twist. You can also layer it over creamy polenta or even inside warm puff pastry for a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal just as tasty.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth and avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help refresh the texture if the gravy has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer more flavor and extra tenderness. They hold up well during slow cooking and add a rich, juicy element to the dish.
Is it necessary to add sour cream to the gravy?
Nope! The sour cream is optional but highly recommended if you want a creamier, tangier gravy. It adds a lovely silkiness that makes the dish feel extra special, but the recipe is delicious even without it.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can! Adding frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, or chopped carrots in the last hour of cooking works well. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds texture and color to your hearty meal.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe for a complete meal?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice perfectly complement the dish. To add some veggies, green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple salad are great choices.
How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy is thinner than you’d like, whisk in a small mixture of cornstarch and cold water, then cook on high for an additional 15 to 30 minutes until thickened. This little trick helps achieve that perfect gravy consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels effortlessly special and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, you owe it to yourself to try this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple to make, deeply flavorful, and the kind of meal that warms both your belly and your heart. Trust me, once you try it, this will become your go-to recipe for cozy dinners and happy gatherings.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts slowly cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy made with chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and classic seasonings. It can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty dinner that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Gravy
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 packets (0.87 oz each) chicken gravy mix
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for creamier gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the gravy mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble in slow cooker: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully covered by the liquid.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the shredded chicken thoroughly in the flavorful gravy.
- Add creaminess (optional): If desired, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream just before serving to create a richer, creamier gravy.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For more flavor and tenderness, substitute chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Add frozen peas or cooked mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for a vegetable boost.
