Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of tender, juicy chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy. Sounds like the perfect dinner, right? That’s exactly what you get with this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe. It’s a foolproof, set-it-and-forget-it dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves an easy, home-cooked meal, this recipe is a game-changer.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. No complicated prep, no standing over the stove, and definitely no stress. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a flavorful broth, soaking up all the delicious gravy goodness. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth meal that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even fluffy biscuits.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
- Effortless Cooking: With just a few minutes of prep, your slow cooker does the rest, making this a hassle-free meal.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The chicken absorbs the rich, seasoned gravy as it cooks, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking keeps the chicken moist and tender, making it fall-apart delicious.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of simple, budget-friendly ingredients to create this masterpiece.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or with biscuits for a satisfying meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the comforting flavors of this dish.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- 1 packet (1 ounce) chicken gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening, if needed)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings stick better and enhances the texture of the chicken.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings and Broth
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, onion soup mix, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced. Pour the seasoned broth mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases steam and can increase cooking time.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken (Optional)
If you prefer a shredded texture, use two forks to gently pull apart the cooked chicken. It should be tender and easy to shred. Otherwise, you can leave the chicken whole for a more classic presentation.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Thicken the Gravy
Stir in the heavy cream to give the gravy a smooth, velvety finish. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting, home-cooked meal!
Ingredient Background
One of the reasons this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe is so flavorful is because of the carefully selected ingredients that work together to create a rich and comforting dish. Let’s take a closer look at a few of them.
Chicken: The star of the dish, chicken is a lean and versatile protein that absorbs flavors beautifully. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great option for a leaner dish, while chicken thighs add extra juiciness and tenderness due to their slightly higher fat content.
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the gravy, adding depth and enhancing the savory elements of the dish. Homemade chicken broth is always a great option, but a good-quality store-bought broth works just as well.
Onion Soup Mix: This little packet is a powerhouse of flavor, containing dried onions, seasonings, and beef or chicken bouillon. It enhances the taste of the dish by adding a sweet-savory depth that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient helps create a velvety smooth, rich gravy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even whole milk can be used, but the consistency may be slightly thinner.
Cornstarch Slurry: A simple mixture of cornstarch and water, this helps thicken the gravy without adding extra flour or fat. It’s a gluten-free alternative that ensures a silky, smooth texture.
Technique Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
To make this dish absolutely foolproof, follow these pro tips:
When using a slow cooker, the placement of ingredients matters. To ensure even cooking, always place the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. If you stack the chicken, some pieces may cook faster than others, leading to uneven texture and inconsistent flavor absorption.
For the best texture, avoid overcooking the chicken. While slow cookers are forgiving, leaving chicken on the heat for too long can cause it to become dry. If you’re using chicken breasts, check them around the 5-hour mark on low heat to make sure they’re still tender and juicy. If using chicken thighs, they can withstand longer cooking times due to their higher fat content.
To enhance the flavor and consistency of the gravy, whisk the broth and seasonings together before pouring it over the chicken. This prevents clumping and ensures that every ingredient is evenly distributed. Additionally, if you prefer an ultra-smooth gravy, you can strain it before serving.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
This dish is already incredibly delicious, but if you want to mix things up, there are some creative ways to serve it beyond the traditional plate of mashed potatoes and gravy.
One fun way to enjoy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is by serving it over buttermilk biscuits for a Southern-inspired meal. The flaky, buttery biscuits soak up the rich gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying dish reminiscent of classic chicken and biscuits.
Another great presentation idea is to transform it into a chicken and gravy sandwich. Shred the chicken and serve it on toasted brioche buns with a drizzle of gravy on top. Add a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese and some crispy fried onions for extra texture and flavor.
For a rustic, homestyle twist, consider turning this dish into a hearty pot pie. Pour the chicken and gravy mixture into a baking dish, top it with a layer of buttery pie crust or puff pastry, and bake until golden brown. This version takes the dish to a whole new level of comfort food perfection.
Freezing and Storing Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
This dish is perfect for meal prep because it stores and reheats beautifully.
If you plan to enjoy it throughout the week, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the gravy’s consistency and prevent it from thickening too much.
For long-term storage, freeze the chicken and gravy in portioned containers for easy reheating. Use freezer-safe bags or airtight containers and label them with the date. This meal stays fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the frozen container in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat from frozen by placing the frozen portion in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method ensures that the chicken remains tender and flavorful.
Healthier Twist Ideas
While this dish is already relatively healthy, you can make a few tweaks to lighten it up while keeping it just as delicious.
For a lower-fat option, swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. These alternatives add creaminess without as much fat, while also boosting the protein content.
Another way to make it healthier is by reducing the sodium. Instead of store-bought gravy and soup mix, make your own seasoning blend using onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and low-sodium chicken bouillon. This allows you to control the salt level while keeping the same delicious flavors.
If you’re looking to add more vegetables, toss in sliced mushrooms, carrots, or peas toward the end of cooking. These veggies will soak up the flavorful gravy, adding color and extra nutrients to the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Events
This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
For a Sunday dinner, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh garden salad for a complete, well-balanced meal. The rich flavors of the chicken and gravy pair beautifully with the lightness of the salad and the heartiness of the potatoes.
If you’re hosting a potluck or family gathering, serve the chicken shredded with soft dinner rolls or sandwich buns so guests can make their own chicken and gravy sliders. This setup makes it easy for people to grab a plate and enjoy without the need for complicated plating.
For a holiday meal alternative, use this dish as a substitute for traditional turkey or ham. It’s a fantastic option for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, especially when paired with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans. The ease of preparation also allows you to focus on other holiday dishes while the slow cooker does all the work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken in a slow cooker, as it takes longer to reach a safe temperature, increasing the risk of bacteria growth. Always thaw chicken in the refrigerator before cooking.
2. What can I use instead of onion soup mix?
You can make your own by combining 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes, 1 teaspoon of beef or chicken bouillon powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper.
3. How do I make the gravy thicker?
Use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it in at the end of cooking. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to thicken.
4. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then do a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Heat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
6. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey breast or turkey tenderloins work just as well.
7. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough.
8. Can I add cheese?
Yes, shredded cheddar or Parmesan adds a nice touch.
9. Will this work with bone-in chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by about an hour.
10. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings rich, hearty flavors to the table with minimal effort. It’s a dish that works for busy weeknights, family gatherings, and even special occasions. Whether served over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your slow cooker and enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- 1 packet (1 ounce) chicken gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening, if needed)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings stick better and enhances the texture of the chicken.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, onion soup mix, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
Place the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced. Pour the seasoned broth mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases steam and can increase cooking time.
If you prefer a shredded texture, use two forks to gently pull apart the cooked chicken. It should be tender and easy to shred. Otherwise, you can leave the chicken whole for a more classic presentation.
Stir in the heavy cream to give the gravy a smooth, velvety finish. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting, home-cooked meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g