When life gets busy, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal that practically makes itself. Enter the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe – your new weeknight dinner hero. This dish is the epitome of comfort food: tender, shredded chicken smothered in a luscious, savory gravy. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and comes together with just a handful of ingredients. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s dive in!

Why We Love This Recipe

There’s a special kind of magic in letting a slow cooker do all the hard work. For me, this recipe is a lifesaver during those hectic weekdays when everyone is hungry, and I’m juggling a million things at once. The chicken turns out unbelievably tender, soaking up all the rich, garlicky goodness of the gravy. And let’s not even get started on how your kitchen will smell—it’s like a warm hug in the form of savory aromas!

But what truly seals the deal? The versatility. You can serve this over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or even steamed rice, and it’s always a hit. It’s also a great make-ahead option for meal prep.

Preparing the Chicken and Gravy

First things first: you’ll need a few basic ingredients to whip up this comforting masterpiece. Don’t worry—nothing fancy here. Just simple staples that come together to create something magical.

Ingredients:

Chicken: 2 kilograms (4.4 lbs) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Gravy Sauce:
- 3 cans (295 g / 10.4 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup.
- 1 packet (43 g / 1.5 oz) chicken gravy mix.
- 12 cloves garlic, minced (30 g / 1.1 oz).
- 60 ml (¼ cup) fresh parsley, minced.
- 4.5 teaspoons (7 g) cracked black pepper.

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts into your slow cooker. This recipe uses a 5-quart slow cooker, but any medium-sized one will work just fine. Make sure the chicken pieces are laid out evenly so they can cook uniformly.

Now, I know some of you might be wondering if you can use chicken thighs instead. Absolutely! Thighs will add an extra layer of richness due to their higher fat content, so feel free to make the swap if that’s what you prefer.

Step 2: Making the Gravy

Next, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and minced garlic. The key here is to whisk thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps. This creamy concoction is going to be the heart of your dish, so don’t skimp on the mixing.

Pour this heavenly mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure every piece is completely coated. At this stage, it might not look like much, but trust me, your patience will pay off.

Step 3: Cooking It Low and Slow

Here’s where the magic happens. Cover your slow cooker and let it do its thing. You’ve got two options:

Cook on high for 3 hours if you’re in a rush.
Cook on low for 5 hours for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

While the slow cooker does its job, you can relax or tackle that never-ending to-do list. Either way, you’ll end up with tender, flavorful chicken that’s practically begging to be shredded.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Garlic: Don’t substitute with garlic powder here. Fresh minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that really shines in this dish.
Customize the Seasoning: If you’re a fan of herbs like thyme or rosemary, feel free to toss some in. They’ll complement the gravy beautifully.
Check Your Chicken: Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts. Always check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Bringing It All Together—Shredding, Seasoning, and Serving

Now that your kitchen smells like a cozy dream and the chicken has been slow-cooking its way to perfection, it’s time to pull everything together. This is the exciting part where your chicken transforms from “almost ready” into the most comforting dish you’ll ever make. Let’s get back to it!

Step 4: Shredding the Chicken

Once the chicken has cooked through (remember, we’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), grab two forks and get shredding. If you’ve never shredded slow-cooked chicken before, you’re in for a treat—it practically falls apart at the touch.

Here’s my tip for shredding: Leave the chicken in the slow cooker while you shred it. This way, it soaks up the gravy as you pull it apart, making every bite irresistibly juicy and flavorful.

If you’re in a hurry or simply want an easier method, you can use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. It’s a game-changer for busy nights!

Step 5: Adding the Final Touches

Now that your chicken is beautifully shredded, it’s time to season and combine everything. Stir the chicken into the gravy so it’s fully coated, then add the finishing touches:

Fresh Parsley: Stir in 60 ml (¼ cup) of minced parsley. Not only does this add a lovely pop of color, but it also brings a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the gravy.
Cracked Black Pepper: Add 4.5 teaspoons (7 g) of cracked black pepper for that final bit of seasoning. If you like a little kick, don’t hesitate to add more.

Give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed. At this point, the dish will look and smell so good, you’ll want to dive right in—but hang tight. It gets even better when paired with the right sides.

Step 6: Serve It Up

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. You can serve it in so many ways, depending on what you’re in the mood for (or what you’ve got in your pantry). Here are my favorite pairings:

1. Mashed Potatoes

Classic and comforting, mashed potatoes are the perfect match for this creamy chicken and gravy. Ladle a generous scoop of chicken and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes and garnish with extra parsley. It’s heaven on a plate.

2. Buttery Egg Noodles

Egg noodles are a fantastic choice for soaking up all that savory gravy. Cook them just until tender, toss with a bit of butter, and serve with your chicken on top.

3. Steamed Rice

For a lighter option, go with fluffy steamed rice. It balances the rich gravy beautifully and is always a family favorite.

4. Crusty Bread

Sometimes, simple is best. Grab a loaf of crusty bread to sop up every last drop of gravy. It’s rustic, easy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Tips and Variations

To make this dish even more versatile, here are a few ways you can switch things up:

Add Veggies: For a complete one-pot meal, add vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans during the last hour of cooking. They’ll soak up the gravy and taste incredible.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. It’s an easy way to spice things up without overwhelming the dish.
Creamier Gravy: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It adds a tangy, velvety richness that’s absolutely divine.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the gravy mix for a gluten-free alternative and make sure your soup is gluten-free as well. Serve with rice or gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly meal.

Pro Tip for Meal Prep

This recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep because it reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin out the gravy and bring it back to its original creamy consistency.

And if you’re planning ahead, this dish freezes well too! Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQ Section and Wrapping Things Up

By now, your kitchen is filled with the mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked goodness, and you’re probably eager to serve this delicious meal. But before we wrap things up, let’s answer a few common questions that might pop up while preparing this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. Plus, I’ll leave you with some final thoughts to inspire you to make this dish your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you’re using frozen chicken, there’s no need to thaw it first. Just add the frozen chicken to your slow cooker and extend the cooking time by an hour. However, if your chicken pieces are large, check for doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked.

2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can prepare this dish in the oven. Place the chicken and gravy mixture in a large, covered baking dish and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. For a homemade option, whisk together equal parts milk and chicken broth with a few tablespoons of flour or cornstarch to thicken.

4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, let the chicken and gravy cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. How do I reheat the chicken and gravy without it drying out?
To reheat, place the chicken and gravy in a saucepan with a splash of water or chicken broth. Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

6. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with turkey, pork chops, or even beef. Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the protein you choose.

7. What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish shines when served over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even with a side of crusty bread. Add a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe is more than just a meal—it’s comfort food at its finest. From the tender, juicy chicken to the rich and creamy gravy, every bite is pure bliss. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own by customizing the flavors or serving it in new and creative ways.

So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your slow cooker, gather those ingredients, and get ready to wow your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your own twists on the recipe in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’ve made this dish your own!

Here’s to cozy, comforting meals that make life a little more delicious. Happy cooking! ❤️

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Author: Christophe
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

A simple, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days. This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy pairs tender, slow-cooked chicken with a creamy, flavorful gravy. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:
- 2 kg (4.4 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Gravy Sauce:
- 3 cans (295 g / 10.4 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (43 g / 1.5 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 12 cloves garlic, minced (30 g / 1.1 oz)
- 60 ml (¼ cup) fresh parsley, minced
- 4.5 teaspoons (7 g) cracked black pepper

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a 5-quart slow cooker.

2️⃣ Prepare the gravy mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, gravy mix, and minced garlic until smooth and well blended.

3️⃣ Combine and cook: Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully coated.

4️⃣ Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5️⃣ Shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.

6️⃣ Mix and season: Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy. Add the minced parsley and cracked black pepper, then mix well to combine.

7️⃣ Serve: Ladle the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Customizations: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for a heartier meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Alternative Serving Ideas: This chicken and gravy also pairs wonderfully with baked potatoes or toasted bread.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-5 hours