This Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken with Mushroom Gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The tender, juicy shredded chicken is cooked in a rich mushroom gravy, making it perfect to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. With minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients, this slow cooker meal is both easy and delicious.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken with Mushroom Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. The chicken becomes tender and juicy as it slow cooks in a savory mushroom gravy that is full of flavor. This recipe is great for busy weeknights since the slow cooker does most of the work for you. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy gravy makes for a rich and hearty dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Place the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Make the Gravy: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker.
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the gravy and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chicken Choice: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs tend to be more tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- Fresh Mushrooms: Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor, but canned mushrooms can also work if needed.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations
- Herb Gravy: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the gravy for extra flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream before serving for an even creamier gravy.
- Vegetable Addition: Add diced carrots or celery to the slow cooker for extra vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. Can I Make This Recipe on the Stovetop?
Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Sear the chicken in a large skillet, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Shred the chicken and serve as directed.
3. What Can I Serve with Shredded Chicken with Mushroom Gravy?
This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken with Mushroom Gravy is a comforting and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious dish with minimal effort. The rich mushroom gravy and tender shredded chicken make this recipe a family favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor!
Happy Cooking!