If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Picture tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection in a creamy, flavorful gravy that’s so luscious it almost feels indulgent. Whether you’re busy with a hectic schedule or simply want an easy dinner that feels like a warm hug, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with a magical transformation that yields a homey dish everyone will adore. Let’s dive in and make this classic comfort food with minimal fuss but maximum taste!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these few, straightforward ingredients is all you need to create that rich and savory Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe perfection. Each one plays a crucial role: from the creamy soup base that adds silky texture to the gravy mix that deepens the flavor and the chicken breasts that soak it all up beautifully.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (3 to 4): Choose fresh or thawed chicken for even cooking and tender results.
- Unsalted cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): This creamy base is what gives the gravy its smooth, luscious texture.
- Chicken gravy mix (2 envelopes, 0.87 oz each): Adds that classic, irresistible gravy flavor without extra fuss.
- Water or chicken broth (1/2 cup, optional): Use broth for a richer taste or water if you want to keep it simple.
- Hot steamed rice: Essential for serving, it soaks up the gravy perfectly and makes the meal complete.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. For a touch of seasoning, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken to enhance its natural flavor. This simple prep ensures each bite is flavorful and juicy.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and the water or broth if you’re using it. This mixture will give your dish that velvety, savory gravy that infuses the chicken with deep flavors while it cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover it up, set your slow cooker to LOW, and let the magic happen for 4 to 6 hours. As it simmers gently, the chicken becomes tender and the gravy thickens beautifully, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Before serving, use two forks to shred or break the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces right in the crockpot, so every morsel is coated with that delicious gravy. This step makes each spoonful a perfect balance of meat and sauce.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a bit of cracked black pepper on top adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy gravy. These simple garnishes brighten the dish and make it visually appealing.
Side Dishes
While this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe is amazing served over hot steamed rice, you could also pair it with buttery mashed potatoes, soft dinner rolls, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and gravy over flaky biscuits, turning this comfort food into a delightful pot pie feel. Or spoon it atop creamy polenta for a Southern-inspired twist that will wow your guests without adding extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more, making your next meal just as delightful if not better than the first.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe on hand for busy nights, freeze the cooked mixture (without rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth and to ensure the chicken stays tender. Adding a splash of water or broth can help refresh the sauce if it’s thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to stay even more moist and flavorful after slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Do I have to use cream of chicken soup?
The soup is key to getting that creamy gravy texture and rich flavor, but if you prefer, you can make your own simple white sauce as a substitute. Keep in mind the convenience and classic taste the canned soup provides.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or peas is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and add color. Just add them in the crockpot along with the chicken so they cook until tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a regular pot on the stove?
You can, though the slow cooker really allows the flavors to develop deeply without much attention. Simmer on low heat for about an hour or until chicken is cooked through and tender if using a stovetop.
How thick will the gravy be?
The gravy thickens nicely during slow cooking, but if you prefer it thicker, you can stir in a little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) at the end and simmer briefly to thicken further.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, perfect for busy weeks or cozy weekends. With minimal hands-on time and such incredible, melt-in-your-mouth results, it’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your home just like I have in mine!
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Crockpot Chicken & Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy recipe is a comforting and effortless meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts simmer slowly in a rich and creamy gravy made from cream of chicken soup and gravy mix, creating a deliciously hearty dish served over hot steamed rice. The slow cooker method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal prep work.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Gravy
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes chicken gravy mix
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional)
Serving
- Hot steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference to enhance the flavor.
- Make the gravy mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix packets, and optionally, 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth. This mixture will form a rich and flavorful gravy as it cooks.
- Cook in slow cooker: Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Shred the chicken: Before serving, use two forks to break the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces within the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the gravy.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and gravy over hot steamed rice for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Notes
- Using water or chicken broth is optional; broth will enhance the flavor more.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before cooking or to taste after.
- For thicker gravy, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
