Crockpot Chicken & Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
If you’re looking for an effortless, hearty, and delicious meal that practically cooks itself, this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich, creamy gravy, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep time and a handful of pantry staples, you can have a wholesome meal ready to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with the ease of a slow cooker.
In this post, we’ll walk you through every step of making this delectable Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, share expert tips to elevate the dish, suggest creative serving ideas, and answer common questions. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe
This slow cooker recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal:
- Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Versatile: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even biscuits for a variety of meal options.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy, savory gravy paired with tender shredded chicken is pure comfort in every bite.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store beautifully and taste even better the next day.
Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
To make this delicious Crockpot Chicken & Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for high-quality chicken for the best texture and flavor. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix (approx. 1 ounce each): These packets add a savory, umami-packed base to the gravy.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: This provides creaminess and depth to the dish. Use a low-sodium version if preferred.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Ensures the gravy is smooth and flavorful without being overly salty.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and depth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Ingredient Tips:
- Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts to ensure a clean, tender result. If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cooking to avoid watery gravy.
- Gravy Mix: Look for high-quality gravy mix brands like McCormick or Pioneer for the best flavor. You can also use homemade gravy mix if you prefer.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor twist.
- Broth: Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness, especially since the gravy mix and soup already contain sodium.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Crockpot Chicken & Gravy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Place 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to soak up the flavors of the gravy.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 packets of chicken gravy mix, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial for creating a velvety, well-blended gravy that coats the chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Pour Over the Chicken
Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are fully submerged. The liquid will keep the chicken moist and tender as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The low-and-slow method is ideal for maximum tenderness, but the high setting works well if you’re short on time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy to coat it evenly. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Serve the chicken and gravy hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or biscuits for a comforting, hearty meal.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
To ensure your Crockpot Chicken & Gravy turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Check the Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, thin it out with additional broth. If it’s too runny, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot, then cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Use Fresh Spices: Garlic and onion powder lose potency over time, so use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Avoid Lifting the Lid: Resist the urge to check on the dish frequently, as this releases heat and can extend the cooking time.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the gravy mixture the night before and store it in the fridge, then add it to the crockpot with the chicken in the morning.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, soaking up the rich gravy for a comforting bite.
- Rice: Serve over white, brown, or wild rice for a simple, hearty meal.
- Egg Noodles: The gravy clings perfectly to noodles, creating a cozy, casserole-like dish.
- Biscuits: Spoon the chicken and gravy over warm, flaky biscuits for a Southern-inspired twist.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp side salad to add color and nutrition.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up every last drop of gravy.
For a complete meal, consider adding a dessert like apple pie or chocolate brownies to round out the comfort food experience.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are some creative variations and substitutions for Crockpot Chicken & Gravy:
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup and add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of hot sauce to the gravy mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a more aromatic dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of potatoes or pasta.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gravy mix and cream of chicken soup to make this dish gluten-free.
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sodium: 900mg (varies based on broth and gravy mix)
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduce the amount of gravy mix.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and to prevent excess water in the gravy, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Can I make this recipe without cream of chicken soup?
Yes! You can substitute with a homemade white sauce (béchamel) made from butter, flour, and milk, or use a different cream-based soup like cream of celery or cream of mushroom.
3. How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot and cook on high for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Add sliced mushrooms, carrots, peas, or green beans during the last hour of cooking to keep them tender but not mushy.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids. Serve over their favorite starch, like mashed potatoes or noodles, for a meal they’ll love.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is the epitome of comfort food—simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery noodles, this dish is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies.
Try this recipe today and share it with your family and friends! Don’t forget to leave a comment below, pin this recipe on Pinterest, or share it on social media. For more delicious slow cooker recipes, explore our website and subscribe to our newsletter for weekly meal inspiration.
Recipe Card (Printable Version)
Crockpot Chicken & Gravy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low (or 4 hours on high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix (approx. 1 ounce each)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk together gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix with the gravy.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Notes:
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- For a thicker gravy, add a cornstarch slurry and cook on high for 15 minutes.
