This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a true comfort food. Tender chicken simmers all day in a creamy gravy that makes your home smell amazing!
Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax. I usually serve it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious gravy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs instead for a richer flavor.
Soup: The cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups create a tasty base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use low-fat versions or even homemade cream soups if time allows!
Chicken Broth: I like to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. If you’re out, vegetable broth works well as a substitute.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic give depth to the gravy. In a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as alternatives.
Flour: A quarter cup of all-purpose flour helps thicken the gravy. For a gluten-free option, try cornstarch instead. Just mix it with a little water and add to the gravy.
What’s the Best Way to Make Gravy That’s Thick and Creamy?
Making a thick, creamy gravy might seem tricky but is simple with the right technique. First, once the chicken is cooked, remove it to keep warm. Then, you’ll make a slurry to thicken the gravy.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the slow cooker with the gravy. Cook on high for 15-30 minutes, covered, until it thickens.
For best results, stir constantly and taste before serving to adjust seasonings if needed. Enjoy this delicious gravy over your favorite sides!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup cold water (for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just mix, set, and forget—perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
2. Make the Soup Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.
3. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is well covered. This will help keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. It should practically fall apart when you taste it!
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside to keep warm. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until you have a smooth slurry. This will help thicken your gravy.
6. Add Slurry to the Gravy:
Stir the slurry into the gravy remaining in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Return the chicken to the slow cooker so it can coat with the thickened gravy, soaking in all that flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the chicken and gravy over hot rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Enjoy this cozy, delicious meal with your loved ones!
FAQs for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe! Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. No need to thaw beforehand!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make this dish healthier, opt for low-fat or reduced-sodium versions of the cream soups and chicken broth. You can also add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition! Just toss them in at the beginning for a complete meal.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup mixture and place the chicken in the slow cooker the night before. Just keep it in the fridge and set it up to cook in the morning. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
