When it comes to homestyle cooking, few dishes can match the rich flavors and heartwarming satisfaction of Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. This dish is not just about convenience but about creating a meal that embodies comfort, warmth, and nostalgia.
Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner, a Sunday family meal, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a perfect balance of simplicity and taste.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this classic dish, including its history, variations, serving suggestions, storage tips, and frequently asked questions.
The History Behind Chicken and Gravy
Chicken and gravy have been a staple in American kitchens for centuries, with deep roots in Southern cuisine. Traditionally, chicken was slow-cooked in broth and paired with a thick, creamy gravy made from pan drippings, flour, and milk.
The slow cooker version of this dish evolved as a convenient alternative to traditional stovetop or oven-baked recipes, allowing for a more hands-off approach without compromising flavor.
Over time, home cooks began experimenting with different ingredients like cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and additional herbs and seasonings to create a richer, more robust sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re still wondering why Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy should be in your weekly meal rotation, here are a few reasons:
- Effortless Cooking: Set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Tender, Juicy Chicken: Cooking on low heat for several hours ensures the chicken is fall-apart tender.
- Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of chicken broth, gravy mix, and seasonings creates a deliciously thick and flavorful sauce.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it perfect for lunches and quick reheats.
Ingredients:
- 2½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thawed if frozen
- 10.25 ounces cream of chicken soup (one standard can)
- 1.74 ounces chicken gravy mix (one packet)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Flavorful BaseIn a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth until smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Arrange the ChickenPlace the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overlapping excessively.
- Pour the MixtureEvenly pour the prepared soup and gravy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Slow Cook to PerfectionCover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6–8 hours, or on high heat for 4–5 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through.
- Shred the ChickenOnce the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken breasts directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy to ensure it is well-coated.
- Serve and GarnishServe the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.
Nutritional Information:
Per Serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
1. Classic with Mashed Potatoes
The most traditional way to serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is over a generous scoop of buttery mashed potatoes. The thick, creamy gravy seeps into the potatoes, making every bite comforting and flavorful.
2. Over Fluffy Rice
If you’re looking for an alternative to potatoes, white or brown rice is an excellent choice. The grains soak up the rich gravy, making each bite a burst of savory goodness.
3. Nestled on Egg Noodles
For a heartier meal, serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of buttered egg noodles. The noodles add a soft texture that pairs beautifully with the shredded chicken.
4. With Biscuits or Dinner Rolls
Want a Southern twist? Flaky biscuits or warm dinner rolls make the perfect pairing. You can spoon the gravy over them or use them to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
5. Served Open-Faced on Toast
For a diner-style experience, try serving the shredded chicken and gravy over thick slices of toasted bread. It’s simple, filling, and delicious.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing for Later
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
- Slow Cooker: If reheating a large batch, place it back in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Ways to Customize the Recipe
This slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe is already packed with flavor, but you can always tweak it to match your preferences. Here are some ways to make it your own:
1. Add Vegetables
For extra nutrition and texture, toss in some sliced mushrooms, carrots, celery, or peas. These veggies add flavor and make the dish even heartier.
2. Spice It Up
If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
3. Make It Creamier
For an extra creamy texture, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese before serving. This makes the gravy even richer.
4. Use Different Proteins
Not a fan of chicken breast? Try chicken thighs for a juicier texture or turkey breast for a holiday-inspired twist.
5. Herb and Garlic Infusion
Adding fresh rosemary, thyme, or minced garlic can elevate the flavor and make the dish even more aromatic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, but for food safety reasons, it’s recommended to thaw chicken before placing it in the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of bacteria growth.
2. How Can I Make the Gravy Thicker?
If the gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for another 10–15 minutes to thicken.
3. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream of chicken soup (or substitute with a mixture of coconut milk and chicken broth) for a lactose-free version.
4. What’s the Best Way to Shred the Chicken?
The easiest way is to use two forks to pull the chicken apart while it’s still hot. Alternatively, you can place the cooked chicken in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and mix on low for a few seconds for quick shredding.
5. Can I Cook It on High Instead of Low?
Yes! While cooking on low for 6–8 hours produces the best results, you can cook it on high for 4–5 hours if you’re short on time.
6. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
This dish is low in carbs, but if you’re on a strict keto diet, check your gravy mix and cream of chicken soup for hidden carbs and opt for low-carb alternatives.
Conclusion: A Meal Worth Repeating
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a warm, home-cooked meal, this dish will never disappoint.
With endless ways to customize, serve, and store this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Try it out, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Comforting Chicken and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes – 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.25-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (1.74-ounce) packet chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Gravy Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the Chicken to the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
- Evenly distribute the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cook Low and Slow
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken
- Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine with the gravy.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.
Notes
- For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker 20 minutes before serving.
- Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
- To make it creamier, stir in ¼ cup of sour cream or cream cheese before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) / 4–5 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
