This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a warm, comforting dish that’s super easy to make. Just throw in some chicken with tasty gravy and let it cook low and slow for tender, juicy goodness!
I love serving it over rice or mashed potatoes—it’s like a cozy hug on a plate! Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing while it cooks. Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, chicken thighs also work well and add more flavor. They stay juicy! You could use frozen chicken too; just adjust cooking time.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add a ton of flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder (1 tsp) and garlic powder (1/2 tsp) can be good substitutes. I always prefer fresh, but sometimes convenience wins!
Cream Soup: Cream of mushroom is classic here, but if you prefer, you can use cream of chicken soup. For a healthier twist, you could make your own creamy sauce with Greek yogurt mixed with some chicken broth, but it’ll change the texture a bit.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary give a nice earthy flavor. If you have Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence on hand, they make excellent substitutes. Use what you love!
Thickening the Gravy: Cornstarch is optional but helps to achieve that thick, satisfying gravy. If you don’t have cornstarch, a flour slurry (mix equal parts flour and water) works too. Just cook it longer to avoid a floury taste.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Chicken?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is fantastic for tenderness, but a few tips help! Start by searing the chicken on the stovetop until browned (optional). This adds flavor, but it isn’t necessary. The key is cooking low and slow—do not rush it!
- Place chicken in the slow cooker, then layer with onion and garlic.
- Combine broth and soup, and pour it over everything.
- Cook on low to retain moisture. Avoid opening the lid as it lets out steam.
- When done, remove chicken and, if desired, thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry.
Following these steps will give you that melt-in-your-mouth chicken every time!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Flavor:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice or mashed potatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day! You’ll have tender chicken and delicious gravy waiting for you at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are even so that they cook properly!
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic right over the chicken. This will seep into the chicken as it cooks, providing lots of yummy flavor.
3. Mixing the Gravy:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will be the gravy that enhances your chicken.
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the delicious soup mixture evenly over the chicken and onions in your slow cooker. It should cover the chicken nicely!
5. Cooking Time:
Now, cover the slow cooker with its lid. You can set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked all the way through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a serving plate. If you want a thicker gravy, stir the cornstarch slurry into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
7. Serving:
Pour the thickened gravy back over the chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. You can serve this dish over warm cooked white rice or fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low (or about 30 minutes on high) and ensure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then cook them in the slow cooker the next day. Just keep in mind that the cooking times remain the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
This dish is delicious over white rice or mashed potatoes, but you can also serve it with egg noodles or steamed vegetables for a nice balance. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!
