If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly the dish to turn to. Tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection and drenched in a rich, flavorful gravy creates a meal that’s effortlessly satisfying and so easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want something cozy and fulfilling, this recipe brings all the right flavors and textures together with minimal fuss, making it a true weeknight hero and a forever favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the savory chicken gravy mix enhancing the richness, to the creamy soup lending body and smooth texture. The seasonings marry the flavors perfectly, giving the dish depth and warmth you’ll want to savor every time.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein providing tender, shreddable meat that soaks up all the gravy.
- 2 packets (0.87 oz each) chicken gravy mix: Adds that iconic savory base and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy richness and helps the gravy reach perfect consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Boosts the overall flavor while keeping sodium in check.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle, aromatic depth enhancing the overall savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers earthy, herbal notes that elevate the dish beyond basic gravy.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional): Mixes in at the end for ultra-creamy gravy with a slight tang that’s irresistible.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
Start by whisking together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme in a medium bowl until you get a smooth, well-blended sauce. This mix forms the flavorful coating that will infuse every bite of chicken.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Making sure they lie flat helps the gravy surround the chicken uniformly, ensuring even flavor and tenderness.
Step 3: Pour the Gravy Over the Chicken
Gently pour the mixed gravy over the chicken breasts. The goal is to have the chicken fully covered so it can cook in all that delicious sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor while becoming succulent and tender.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or speed things up by setting it on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is so tender it shreds effortlessly with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Combine
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Then stir it into the gravy, making sure every piece is generously coated with that luscious sauce. If you’re craving extra creaminess, now’s the time to stir in the optional sour cream.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy gravy. For a touch of sharpness, a few red pepper flakes can perk up the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This chicken and gravy combo pairs like a dream with classic mashed potatoes or creamy buttermilk mashed cauliflower for a lighter twist. If you prefer grains, fluffy rice or buttered egg noodles soak up the gravy wonderfully, turning every mouthful into a comforting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the shredded chicken piled high on plates with a generous ladle of gravy spooned over. Or get playful by turning the chicken and gravy into a creamy pot pie filling topped with flaky puff pastry. It’s fantastic as a hearty sandwich filling too—just split a crusty bun and stack it up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is just as heavenly the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an even tastier meal for lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to redistribute the gravy. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicy during cooking, making your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe even more delicious. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Is it necessary to add sour cream?
The sour cream is optional but highly recommended if you want a richer, creamier gravy with a subtle tang. Without it, the gravy still tastes wonderful—just a bit lighter.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Frozen peas or cooked mushrooms added in the last hour of cooking make a great veggie boost without overpowering the dish. Carrots or green beans also work well.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Switch to a gluten-free chicken gravy mix and cream of chicken soup, and you’re good to go! Always double-check labels to keep the dish safe for gluten-free diets.
What sides pair best with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe?
Traditional mashed potatoes, rice, and egg noodles are classic pairings that soak up the gravy. Roasted or steamed veggies create a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals. It’s hands-off, incredibly flavorful, and hits all the right notes of creamy, savory happiness. Give it a try on your next busy day—you’ll be so glad you did, and your family will thank you too!
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
A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful homemade chicken gravy. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
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 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 smooth and well combined.
- Place Chicken in Slow Cooker: Arrange the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add Gravy Over Chicken: Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully covered to maximize flavor and tenderness during cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6–7 hours or on high heat for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Shred Chicken and Mix: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly inside the slow cooker, then stir well to coat the shredded chicken evenly in the gravy.
- Add Sour Cream (Optional): For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream just before serving.
- Serve: Dish up the shredded chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting and filling meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
- Add frozen peas or cooked mushrooms in the last hour of cooking for a vegetable boost.
