If you’re craving a comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish effortlessly combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, creamy gravy that’s full of flavor and perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week. With minimal prep and ingredients that come together in one pot, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a household favorite, delivering hearty satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s building the creamy texture, adding savory depth, or bringing a subtle tang that lifts the whole dish.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the delicious gravy flavors.
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix: Adds a zesty, herby punch that enhances the chicken’s flavor beautifully.
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix: This is the base for our gravy, perfect for thickening and seasoning the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Gives the gravy a creamy, comforting consistency with a subtle chicken flavor.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a savory aroma that complements the ranch seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings gentle sweetness and rounds out the spice profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick to balance the creamy gravy.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Melted on top during cooking, it adds richness and a smooth finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker. This forms the hearty protein base that will soak up all those delicious seasonings and the creamy gravy as it cooks low and slow.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. This combination infuses the meat with layers of zesty, savory flavors that transform simple chicken into something truly special.
Step 3: Add Creamy Elements
Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth into the slow cooker over the seasoned chicken. Gently stir a little just to start blending the flavors and smooth out the soup, creating the foundation for a luscious gravy.
Step 4: Butter It Up
Place a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of the mixture. This melts slowly during cooking, enriching the gravy’s texture and adding a subtle buttery finish that makes every spoonful even better.
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will become incredibly tender, falling apart easily and soaking up all those wonderful flavors from the seasonings and sauce.
Step 6: Shred and Stir
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, shred it right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together to combine the shredded chicken fully with the creamy gravy so each bite is packed with flavor and comfort.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
The Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed. Ladle it straight over your favorite mashed potatoes, rice, or buttermilk biscuits for a hearty meal that will satisfy and delight everyone at the table.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the creamy gravy perfectly.
Side Dishes
This chicken and gravy combo shines when paired with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or buttery biscuits. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also make excellent, colorful accompaniments to add texture and nutrition to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve the shredded chicken and gravy over a bed of buttery egg noodles or inside warm, toasted bread bowls for a fun, rustic twist. Alternatively, layer it inside a hearty baked potato for a filling and flavorful variation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it just as delicious—or even better—the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth and creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, simply whisk in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the dish even more tender and flavorful thanks to their higher fat content. Just adjust cooking time slightly if thighs are bone-in, and you’ll have a delicious variation on the same great recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free chicken gravy mix and ranch seasoning. Make sure the cream of chicken soup you choose is also gluten-free, and you’ll enjoy all the comfort without the gluten.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Slow cookers are great for larger batches. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the doubled ingredients without overcrowding so everything cooks evenly and thoroughly.
What can I do if the gravy is too thin?
If your gravy is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it by stirring in a slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Cook on the stovetop for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking can add texture and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times so veggies don’t overcook and stay fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like it was made with love and care, perfect for bringing family and friends together around the table. Once you try it, you’ll know exactly why it’s a go-to comfort meal that never fails to satisfy. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, flavorful dinner that warms both heart and home.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe is a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with ranch seasoning, chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and flavorful spices, resulting in a creamy, savory sauce that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Fat
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a base for layering the seasonings and liquids.
- Add Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning mix, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the chicken breasts to infuse flavor into the meat.
- Combine Liquids: Pour the cream of chicken soup and low-sodium chicken broth gently over the chicken and seasonings. Stir lightly to combine the ingredients without disturbing the layering too much.
- Add Butter: Place the tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of the layered ingredients to add richness and help develop the gravy texture as it cooks.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the mixture on low for 6-7 hours, or alternatively on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred Chicken: Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well into the thickened gravy to ensure each bite is flavorful and moist.
- Serve: Spoon the savory chicken and creamy gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken breasts for thighs if preferred for a slightly juicier texture.
- For a thicker gravy, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content of the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make the dish gluten-free, verify that the seasoning mixes and gravy mix do not contain wheat or gluten additives.
