Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is a comforting and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken smothered in rich gravy. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry chicken gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms for extra flavor
- ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables for added texture
- 1 teaspoon paprika for a smoky kick
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This will be the base for your gravy.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the slow cooker.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is fully covered in the sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. You can also leave the chicken whole if you prefer.
- Stir the shredded chicken back into the gravy in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Add Creaminess (Optional)
- For an extra creamy gravy, stir in ½ cup of sour cream. Let it heat for an additional 10-15 minutes on low, allowing the sour cream to blend into the gravy.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve the Chicken & Gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper for a finishing touch.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful and tender result. Boneless thighs work best for easier shredding.
- Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
Variations
1. Mushroom Chicken & Gravy
Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker with the chicken for extra flavor and texture. You can sauté the mushrooms first for even more depth of flavor.
2. Spicy Chicken & Gravy
For a spicy twist, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy mixture. You can also drizzle with a little hot sauce when serving for extra heat.
3. Vegetable Chicken & Gravy
Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or a mix of vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a more complete meal.
4. Herb Chicken & Gravy
For an herby variation, add ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the gravy mix. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley over the dish just before serving.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version:
- Replace the gravy mix and cream of chicken soup with homemade gravy made from low-carb ingredients (such as a mix of chicken broth, heavy cream, and xanthan gum for thickening).
- Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes or rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Chicken & Gravy ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken & Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy?
This dish is traditionally served over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits, but you can also serve it with buttered noodles, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
This Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is an easy, comforting meal that delivers tender chicken in a rich, flavorful gravy. With minimal prep and ingredients, it’s perfect for busy days or when you want a no-fuss dinner that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked with love. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that will please the whole family.
