Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a classic comfort food that is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This dish is a go-to meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, offering a warm and satisfying experience with minimal effort. With tender, slow-cooked chicken smothered in a savory gravy, it’s the perfect meal to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, biscuits, or egg noodles.
One of the reasons this dish is so popular is its simplicity and affordability. Using just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delicious and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Since the slow cooker does all the work, it’s an ideal recipe for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
The slow cooking method enhances the flavor by allowing the chicken to absorb the savory gravy, creating a dish that is moist, juicy, and incredibly tender. Unlike stovetop cooking, which requires constant attention, the crockpot locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with rich flavors as it simmers for hours.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a meal for special occasions, or a comforting dish to warm you up, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a must-try recipe that never disappoints!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a game-changer for home cooks who want a stress-free, delicious meal. Here’s why you’ll love making this dish:
1. Minimal Ingredients
You only need a few basic pantry staples to create a flavorful, creamy dish.
- Chicken
- Gravy mix
- Cream of chicken soup
- Chicken broth
- Seasonings
2. Effortless Cooking – Set It and Forget It
The slow cooker does all the work, so you don’t have to stand over the stove. Just add the ingredients, set the timer, and let it cook while you go about your day.
3. Versatile Serving Options
This rich and creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed Potatoes – For a classic Southern-style meal.
- Rice or Egg Noodles – Soaks up the flavorful gravy.
- Biscuits or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for scooping up every last drop.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Adds a healthy balance to the meal.
Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just craving comfort food, this slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
For a cheesy twist, you can add parmesan or cheddar, similar to this Cheesy Potato Soup, which is another creamy comfort dish.
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
The secret to rich, creamy, and flavorful Crockpot Chicken and Gravy lies in selecting the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean option that absorbs flavor well.
- Chicken thighs: More tender and juicy, with a richer taste.
- Cream of Chicken Soup
- Adds depth, thickness, and a creamy texture to the gravy.
- You can use store-bought or homemade for a healthier version.
- Chicken Broth or Water
- Enhances flavor and prevents the dish from drying out.
- Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
- Gravy Mix or Homemade Gravy
- Pre-packaged chicken gravy mix makes it quick and easy.
- You can also make homemade gravy with flour, butter, and seasonings for a richer taste.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Sour Cream or Heavy Cream
- Makes the gravy extra creamy and indulgent.
- Onion and Garlic Powder
- Adds depth and richness to the overall flavor.
- Paprika, Thyme, or Oregano
- Enhances the dish with warm, earthy notes.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- No cream of chicken soup? Use a mix of butter, flour, and milk as a replacement.
- Want a gluten-free version? Use a gluten-free gravy mix or cornstarch as a thickener.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll create a slow cooker meal that is creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible! 😊
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy that is tender, creamy, and full of flavor.
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
The key to delicious, flavorful chicken starts with proper preparation.
- Choose the Right Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender texture.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika over the chicken.
- For extra flavor, marinate for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the crockpot to absorb maximum flavor.
Step 2: Mixing the Sauce
Creating the perfect, rich, and creamy sauce is key to this dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1–1.5 cups of chicken broth (for a thinner gravy, use more broth)
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix (or homemade gravy)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder and onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional for extra flavor)
- Whisk everything together until smooth.
- Pour over the chicken in the slow cooker, covering it completely.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
The slow cooker method enhances the tenderness of the chicken.
- Low Setting: Cook for 6–8 hours for maximum tenderness.
- High Setting: Cook for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.
💡 Tip: Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases steam and slows down the cooking process.
Step 4: Shredding the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, it will be fall-apart tender.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a plate.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir into the gravy.
Step 5: Thickening the Gravy
Depending on your preferred consistency, you can adjust the thickness of the gravy:
✅ For a thicker gravy:
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir into the crockpot.
- Let it cook for 10–15 more minutes until thickened.
✅ For a creamier gravy:
- Add ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream and stir well.
Step 6: Serving and Garnishing
To elevate the flavor, add toppings and garnishes:
- Fresh parsley for color and freshness.
- Cracked black pepper for extra spice.
- Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy touch.
Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:
- Over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
- With rice or egg noodles to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- On biscuits for a delicious Southern-style dish.
- Alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Now, your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is ready to enjoy!
Delicious Variations of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Want to mix things up? Try these exciting variations:
1. Creamy Chicken and Gravy 🧀
- Stir in 4 oz cream cheese or ½ cup heavy cream for extra richness.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese.
2. Garlic Herb Chicken and Gravy 🌿
- Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Swap chicken broth for herb-infused broth for added depth.
3. Spicy Buffalo Chicken and Gravy 🌶️
- Mix ¼ cup Buffalo sauce into the gravy before cooking.
- Serve with blue cheese crumbles and ranch dressing.
4. Mushroom Chicken and Gravy 🍄
- Sauté ½ cup sliced mushrooms before adding them to the crockpot.
- Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a deeper flavor.
5. Healthy Low-Carb Version 🥑
- Replace cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy taste.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
These variations allow you to customize your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy to fit your taste and dietary preferences! 😊
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is rich, creamy, and comforting, making it the perfect dish to pair with a variety of hearty and flavorful sides. Here are some of the best accompaniments to complete your meal:
1. Mashed Potatoes 🥔
- The ultimate comfort food pairing—fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes soak up the savory gravy perfectly.
- Try garlic mashed potatoes or creamy sour cream mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
2. Fluffy Biscuits 🥐
- Soft, buttery biscuits are perfect for scooping up the thick, creamy gravy.
- Serve warm buttermilk biscuits or cheddar biscuits for a delicious twist.
3. Steamed Rice or Egg Noodles 🍚🍜
- White or brown rice makes a simple, filling base that complements the gravy.
- Egg noodles add a classic, homestyle touch and absorb the sauce beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables 🥦🥕
- A healthy, colorful addition that balances the richness of the dish.
- Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a slightly caramelized, earthy flavor.
Pairing Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with these sides creates a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even with an easy slow cooker recipe, a few common mistakes can impact the texture and flavor of your dish. Here’s how to fix them:
1. Gravy is Too Thin 💦
✅ Fix:
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir into the crockpot and cook for 10–15 more minutes.
- Alternatively, add a small amount of instant mashed potatoes to thicken the gravy naturally.
2. Chicken is Too Dry 🍗
✅ Fix:
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they contain more fat and stay juicier.
- Avoid overcooking—use low heat for 6–8 hours rather than high heat.
- Add extra broth or a tablespoon of butter to rehydrate the chicken.
3. Dish is Too Salty 🧂
✅ Fix:
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream, milk, or sour cream to mellow the saltiness.
- Add extra unsalted broth or water to dilute the sauce.
- If it’s still too salty, a pinch of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice can help balance the flavor.
By following these simple fixes, you’ll achieve perfectly creamy, flavorful, and tender Crockpot Chicken and Gravy every time! 😊
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and food safety. Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can result in uneven cooking, and the USDA advises against it due to the risk of bacteria growth. If you must use frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I make this dish without cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid canned soup, make a homemade roux by melting 2 tablespoons of butter, whisking in 2 tablespoons of flour, and gradually adding 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream or milk. This creates a rich, creamy base without processed ingredients.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the gravy.
- If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even reheating.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free gravy mix or replace flour with cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free cream of chicken soup, or you can use a homemade version with butter, broth, and heavy cream.
Conclusion: Why Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a Must-Try Recipe
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a comforting dish for cold weather, or an effortless recipe for meal prep, this dish delivers tender, juicy chicken and a rich, creamy gravy with minimal effort.
With simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, this meal is perfect for busy families. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can add extra spices, swap proteins, or experiment with different gravies to make it your own.
If you love delicious, comforting, and hassle-free meals, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a must-try for your dinner rotation! 😊