When the chaos of a busy weekday settles in, the last thing I want is to fuss over dinner. That’s where my beloved Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy swoops in like a superhero, bringing comfort and ease to my kitchen. The irresistible aroma of tender chicken simmering away in a rich gravy fills the air, making it impossible to resist. Imagine returning home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself—this dish is all about saying goodbye to stressful evenings!
Perfectly suited for those cozy family dinners, this chicken and gravy recipe is not just flavorful; it’s a testament to no-fuss cooking at its finest. Whether served over fluffy mashed potatoes or hearty slices of bread, each bite provides a hug of warmth, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied. It’s that kind of delightful simplicity that keeps me coming back for more, and I can’t wait to share this easy, yet delectable recipe with you. Let’s dive in!
Why will you love Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, just pop the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work!
Irresistible Aroma: The enticing smell of slow-cooked chicken and savory gravy fills your home, making dinnertime a comforting experience for everyone.
Flavorful Comfort Food: The rich, creamy gravy clings to juicy chicken, creating a delightful flavor combination that you and your family will adore.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread—there’s no shortage of tasty ways to enjoy this dish.
Family Favorite: Easy enough for weeknight dinners but delicious enough to impress guests; it’s the perfect solution for any dining occasion!
Make-Ahead Magic: Enjoy stress-free meal prep! This dish stores well, making it ideal for leftovers and busy days; you can even check out my meal prep tips for more ways to save time in the kitchen.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Ingredients
• This essential ingredient list ensures your homemade meal is both delicious and easy to prepare!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source that stays tender and shreddable when cooked to perfection.
For the Gravy
- Dry Chicken Gravy Mix – Provides depth and flavor; you can substitute it with a homemade mix or your favorite brand.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds the creamy texture and enhances flavor; feel free to swap it for cream of mushroom soup for a twist.
- Water – Blends the gravy ingredients; adjust based on your desired gravy thickness.
- Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor; white pepper can be used as an alternative if preferred.
For Thickening (if necessary)
- Cornstarch – Useful for thickening a thin gravy; can replace it with flour or arrowroot powder.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
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Add the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker; there’s no need to pre-cook them. Just lay them down and get ready for deliciousness!
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Prepare the Gravy Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, water, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
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Combine Everything: Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with that savory goodness.
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Cook to Perfection: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, letting it soak up the gravy for added flavor.
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Thicken the Gravy (if needed): If the gravy turns out too thin, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for an aromatic garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes to avoid bursting.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
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Meal Prep: This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy makes for fantastic meal prep! Just portion it out for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy meals are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker with your gravy mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors, enhancing the dish—just remember to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours, then shred the chicken and thicken the gravy as needed. This prepping method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also guarantees comfort food that’s just as delicious!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
Create a comforting and well-rounded meal that your family will cherish!
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Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up rich gravy, creating a satisfying contrast with tender chicken.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crunchy loaf is ideal for sopping up every last bit of savory gravy, bringing a delightful crunch to your comfort meal.
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Steamed Green Beans: Adding vibrant green beans introduces a fresh, crisp element to the meal, balancing the hearty chicken and gravy beautifully.
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Seasoned Rice: Fluffy rice works wonderfully as a bed for your chicken, giving an extra layer of texture and absorbent goodness to catch the gravy.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds a flavorful, colorful touch, enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal to your dinner plate.
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Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and gravy.
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Homemade Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw complement the creamy gravy, making for a delightful southern-style combination everyone will love.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie is a nostalgic treat that rounds off your meal with a touch of sweetness.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
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Check Doneness: Always double-check the chicken for doneness before shredding to ensure it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
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Avoid Thin Gravy: To prevent a runny gravy, limit additional liquid at the start. The chicken will release moisture as it cooks, enriching the gravy.
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Add Fresh Herbs: For a flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy mix for that homemade touch.
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Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with ingredients! Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free option to cater to dietary preferences.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop of that rich gravy.
Variations & Substitutions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own with these flavorful alternatives!
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Vegetable Boost: Add frozen mixed vegetables during the last two hours of cooking for a colorful and nutritious touch. They’ll blend beautifully into the rich gravy, providing extra flavor and texture.
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Different Cuts: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a heartier option. Thighs bring a richer flavor and a slightly different texture, making your dish even more delightful.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version or use homemade alternatives tailored for dietary restrictions. This way, everyone can enjoy the cozy comfort of this meal.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary when preparing your gravy for an aromatic flavor boost. This simple addition transforms the dish and adds a gourmet touch you’ll love.
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Creamy Variations: For a twist, use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup. This adds an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
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Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture for a flavorful kick that will awaken your taste buds.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest before serving to brighten up the flavors. The acidity will balance the richness of the gravy beautifully.
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Alternative Thickeners: If cornstarch isn’t your go-to, feel free to use arrowroot powder or flour as a thickener for the gravy. Each option brings its own unique texture and flavor, so choose what suits your kitchen best!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless skinless chicken breasts, look for cuts that are firm and pink, with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. If possible, choose organic or free-range options for better flavor and quality.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken and gravy are completely cooled before sealing to lock in freshness. For best results, place a piece of wax paper between the container and the lid to prevent moisture build-up.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! To do so, portion the chicken and gravy into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What if my gravy turns out too thin?
If the gravy is too thin, no worries! Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your liking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version or homemade alternative. Additionally, check your gravy mix for allergens if you’re cooking for those with specific allergies. Always ensure that any herbs or flavoring you add are safe for specific dietary needs, especially for children or pets.
Mouthwatering Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker; there’s no need to pre-cook them.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, water, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, letting it soak up the gravy.
- If the gravy turns out too thin, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.