If you’ve been searching for a cozy, comforting meal that effortlessly comes together with minimal effort, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. It delivers tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits. The magic happens while you go about your day, making it an ideal dinner solution that tastes like it took hours of loving attention but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role. From the creaminess of the soup to the savory punch of the ranch seasoning, every component builds flavor and texture for a truly satisfying dish.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, lean protein that shreds beautifully.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Adds rich creaminess and a perfect base for the gravy.
- 1 (1 oz) packet chicken gravy mix: Boosts the savory depth and thickens up the sauce.
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix: Delivers a flavorful kick with a blend of herbs and spices.
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the gravy moist and balances flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle garlic notes without being overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening): Gives you control over gravy thickness for a luscious finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herby touch.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
Start by placing the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. This layer will soak up all the wonderful flavors from the sauce you’ll prepare next, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the secret to your rich, flavorful gravy that will envelop the chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking process breaks down the chicken fibers, making it tender and shreddable while the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. This step helps the chicken absorb even more of the delicious gravy and makes for an irresistible texture.
Step 5: Optional Gravy Thickening
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of gorgeous green but also a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness of the creamy gravy, making each bite lively and balanced.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with classic comfort sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy rice, or a warm biscuit to soak up every last bit of gravy. These comforting sides amplify the homey vibe of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shredded chicken and gravy over buttered butter noodles or add it to a toasted open-faced sandwich with melted cheese. You can also use it as a hearty filling in pot pies for a comforting crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully, too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy has thickened too much to keep it saucy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful during slow cooking and give the gravy a richer taste. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and seasoning mixes. Always check labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to combine ingredients, then pressure cooking the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, followed by natural release.
What can I add for extra flavor?
A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of butter added before cooking boosts depth and richness, making your gravy even more decadent.
How thick should the gravy be?
Gravy thickness is a personal preference. Use the optional cornstarch to thicken if you like it rich and clingy, or enjoy it a bit thinner to soak perfectly into sides like mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest, delivering effortless flavor and satisfying textures that bring warmth to your table. Give it a try and you’ll quickly see why it’s one of my all-time favorite slow cooker meals — simple, delicious, and perfect for any day of the week.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe delivers tender, shredded chicken simmered in a creamy, flavorful gravy made with cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and ranch seasoning. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, this comforting dish cooks low and slow with minimal prep and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Chicken and Gravy
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (1 oz) packet chicken gravy mix
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are spread evenly.
- Make Sauce Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, ranch seasoning mix, low-sodium chicken broth, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the shredded chicken in the rich gravy.
- Optional Gravy Thickening: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, then cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the shredded chicken and gravy hot, ideally over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of butter before cooking.
- Leftover chicken and gravy make excellent open-faced sandwiches or freezer-friendly meals.
- To keep this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free labeled soup and seasoning mixes.
