If you crave comfort food that’s outrageously easy and always delicious, you’re going to fall in love with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. This recipe delivers incredibly tender shredded chicken smothered in a velvety, savory gravy, all with barely any hands-on time. It’s the sort of simple, hearty meal that makes you look forward to dinner all day. Whether ladled over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery noodles, every bite blankets you in cozy flavor. And best of all, you can use your slow cooker to do almost all the work—truly, it’s a weeknight wonder for busy families and comfort-seekers alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is magic because it transforms a handful of humble, everyday ingredients into a meal with serious comfort factor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, contributing richness, flavor, and that irresistible creamy texture we all crave!
- Chicken breasts: Lean and hearty, these deliver tender shreds that soak up the luscious gravy.
- Chicken gravy mix: Adds savory depth and classic “Sunday roast” flavors in seconds; go for your favorite brand!
- Ranch seasoning mix: A subtle tang and a burst of herby flavor keeps every bite interesting.
- Cream of chicken soup: The secret to the silky, creamy gravy—don’t skip it!
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Balances out the richness and prevents your gravy from tasting overly salty.
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the flavor and adds a gentle aromatic note.
- Black pepper: A must for a little bite and warmth.
- Cornstarch (optional): If you love an extra-thick gravy, a quick slurry at the end will get you there.
- Water (optional): Just a splash to mix with cornstarch for that final thickening step.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful sprinkle right before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by grabbing your slow cooker and arranging the chicken breasts in a single layer right on the bottom. This helps them cook evenly and makes shredding easy later. No need to cut or chop—just let the slow cooker work its magic on those beautiful, whole pieces.
Step 2: Whisk the Gravy Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Take a moment to enjoy that savory aroma! Whisking helps the powders dissolve so they blend smoothly into the gravy—no lumps allowed.
Step 3: Add Gravy to Chicken
Pour the rich and creamy mixture right over the chicken in the slow cooker. Try to coat all the chicken so every piece gets a head start soaking up flavor; you’ll thank yourself later!
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Magic
Pop the lid on and let your slow cooker do its thing: set it to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, gentle heat makes the chicken meltingly tender and allows all those flavors to mingle perfectly. Walk away, enjoy your day, and get ready for a house filled with the scent of Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy!
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once your chicken is fork-tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. It should fall apart easily! Stir everything so the shreds soak up every last drop of that luscious gravy.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you like your gravy on the thicker side, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on high for another 10 to 15 minutes to let it thicken up to perfect, stick-to-your-ribs consistency. This step is optional, but seriously recommended for true gravy lovers!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley scattered over the top adds fresh flavor and a pop of bright green color—it makes everything look (and taste) more inviting. If you’re feeling indulgent, a pat of butter or a drizzle of heavy cream stirred in right before serving is totally swoon-worthy.
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is absolutely made for serving over a blanket of mashed potatoes, but it’s equally dreamy piled on steaming rice or soft egg noodles. Want to round it out? Try roasted green beans, glazed carrots, or a crisp, classic salad on the side—the warm gravy ties everything together.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in a playful mood, try spooning your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy inside a baked potato, or stuff it into a sandwich roll for a comfort-filled sandwich. It’s also wonderful as a topping for savory waffles or even tucked inside puff pastry for a fun twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Thanks to its rich gravy, Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store in an airtight container and give it a good stir before reheating to bring those creamy flavors back together.
Freezing
If you wind up with extras (lucky you!), portion the cooled chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready for another helping, just thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.
Reheating
For quick reheating, the microwave works like a charm—just cover loosely and stir halfway through. On the stovetop, use low heat and stir often. If things get a bit thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the gravy until it’s silky and smooth again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a little richer and will give you even more juicy, flavorful shreds. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for best results in Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use certified gluten-free versions of the gravy mix and cream of chicken soup, which are readily available in most grocery stores.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. If your slow cooker is large enough, doubling is easy—just keep in mind you might need an extra half hour or so of cooking time to ensure everything gets perfectly tender.
Will this work with frozen chicken breasts?
It sure will, though you’ll need to add about an extra hour of cook time. Just make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
How can I make the gravy extra rich?
For an ultra-silky gravy, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. This is a total game-changer for flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate in easy, feel-good dinners, look no further than Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. This recipe is one of those reliable keepers you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and get ready to experience cozy comfort on your busiest days—you’ll love it, and so will everyone around your table!
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 Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe. Succulent shredded chicken bathed in a rich, savory gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Gravy Mix:
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry chicken gravy mix
Ranch Seasoning Mix:
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
Cream of Chicken Soup:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
Chicken Broth:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Thickening:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Mix Ingredients: Whisk together gravy mix, ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred Chicken: Shred chicken in the slow cooker using forks. Stir to coat with gravy.
- Thicken (Optional): Mix cornstarch and water, add to slow cooker. Cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Enjoy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra richness, add butter or cream before serving.
- Leftovers are great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
