Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked in a rich, creamy gravy that’s packed with comforting flavors. It’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a hearty, satisfying meal.

This dish is the ultimate in no-fuss cooking, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker do all the work, delivering a meal that feels like it took hours to prepare. It’s comfort food at its best—easy, delicious, and sure to please the whole family.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 (0.87oz) packets dry chicken gravy mix or brown gravy mix
• 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 ¾ cups water or chicken stock
• ⅓ tsp black pepper

Directions:

1. Add the gravy packets, cream of chicken soup, water, and pepper into a slow cooker. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
2. Submerge the chicken breasts into the gravy mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal (per serving)
Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples and a slow cooker, this dish delivers bold, comforting flavors that require minimal prep time.
2. Versatile Pairing Options: Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a satisfying meal. Add a side of roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a complete dinner.
3. Perfect for Busy Days: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a stress-free recipe for hectic weekdays or lazy weekends.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy, savory gravy and tender chicken. It’s a hit for everyone at the table.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this recipe a great option for meal prep or batch cooking.

Variations to Try

• Add Vegetables: Toss in diced potatoes, carrots, or green beans for a complete one-pot meal.
• Switch Up the Protein: Substitute boneless pork chops or turkey breast for the chicken to create a variation of this dish.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Rich and Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a block of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an ultra-creamy gravy.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary for extra aroma and flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Submerge Chicken for Best Results: Make sure the chicken is fully covered in the gravy mixture to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Check Doneness with a Thermometer: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and perfect tenderness.
• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: Whisk the gravy mix, cream soup, and stock well before adding the chicken to ensure an even flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freeze: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes.
• Fluffy Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the gravy perfectly, making every bite delicious.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: A classic pairing that creates a hearty, cozy meal.
• Sides to Consider: Pair with roasted carrots, sautéed green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is a great source of protein from the chicken and can be tailored to fit dietary needs by using low-sodium ingredients or light cream soup options. For a lower-carb version, skip the starches and serve with steamed veggies.

The Secret to Comfort Food Perfection

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is the epitome of comfort food—a warm, hearty dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. The combination of tender, slow-cooked chicken and rich, creamy gravy is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you simply need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Thighs provide extra juiciness, while breasts offer a leaner option. You can also use bone-in chicken for more depth of flavor but will need to adjust the cooking time.
• Gravy Mix: The dry gravy packets are the key to that thick, flavorful gravy. Choose chicken or brown gravy mix based on your flavor preference, or even combine the two for a unique twist.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient forms the base of the gravy, adding richness and creaminess. Variations like cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used for different flavors.
• Chicken Stock or Water: Chicken stock intensifies the flavor, but water works as a lighter alternative.
• Seasoning: A simple dash of black pepper is all you need, but feel free to experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra depth.

How It Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. All you need to do is combine the ingredients, whisk them together, and let the slow cooker take over. Over the course of 5-6 hours, the chicken absorbs the savory gravy flavors, becoming tender enough to shred with a fork. By the time it’s done, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Tips for Success

1. Avoid Dry Chicken: Ensure the chicken is completely submerged in the gravy mixture to prevent it from drying out.
2. Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium gravy packets and cream soup to control the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
4. Customize Your Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a sprinkle of thyme, or a dash of smoked paprika for a unique twist.

Serving Ideas

• Classic Comfort: Spoon the chicken and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for a traditional pairing.
• Light and Fluffy: Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a lighter option.
• Indulgent Twist: Pair with buttery egg noodles or flaky biscuits for a decadent meal.
• Vegetable Pairings: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad complement the dish beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Combine the gravy mixture and store it in the fridge overnight. Add the chicken the next day and cook as directed.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations to Try

• Vegetable Additions: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes for a rich, creamy twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary before serving for an herbaceous touch.

Why Slow Cooking Is the Best Method

Slow cooking ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender while allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. It’s a hands-off cooking method, ideal for busy days when you need dinner ready without constant monitoring.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting classic that brings ease and flavor to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a family meal, this dish delivers rich, creamy flavors with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to pair it with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta—and customize it with variations that suit your taste.

With tender chicken infused in a savory gravy, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly qualities make it a go-to option for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Once you try it, you’ll see why this comforting, slow-cooked meal is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.