The moment I lift the lid on my slow cooker, I’m greeted by the comforting scent of savory chicken bathing in a creamy, luscious gravy. It’s a scene that takes me back to my childhood—home cooked meals that wrapped me in warmth and love. If you’re like me, overworked and tired of takeout, this Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dinner solution. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a rich, hearty meal bubbling away while you focus on more important things—like family, friends, or simply enjoying some well-deserved me-time.
Perfectly tender chicken melds beautifully with a blend of creamy goodness, making this dish not just family-approved, but a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Whether you serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles, this comfort food classic promises to bring smiles to the dinner table without the fuss. So, let’s dive in and make something special tonight!
Why is Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy so beloved?
Simplicity at its finest: This Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy requires minimal prep, letting you spend more time enjoying your day.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: The rich, creamy gravy covers tender chicken, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug.
- Family-Friendly: It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that appeals to kids and adults alike, making dinner a breeze.
- Endless Versatility: Customize with your favorite add-ins—vegetables, spices, or toppings—for a unique twist every time!
- Time-Saving Wonder: Set it and forget it! This slow cooker gem frees up your evening while it cooks to perfection.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside mashed potatoes or noodles for a complete, comforting meal that tastes like home.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
• Ready to create this comforting dish? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Lean protein that serves as the main ingredient. Substitution Note: Can use frozen chicken; ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
For the Gravy
- Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor. Substitution Note: Fresh garlic may be used for a stronger taste.
- Chicken Gravy Mix – Provides a rich, savory base for the sauce. Substitution Note: Can create homemade gravy using flour and broth if preferred.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess to the dish. Substitution Note: Can replace with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or heavy cream.
- Water – Liquefies ingredients for cooking. Note: Essential for breaking down chicken and ensuring even cooking.
For the Finish
- Salt and Black Pepper – Enhance overall seasoning. Note: Be cautious with salt as gravy mix and soup contain sodium.
- Sour Cream – Enriches the dish with tangy creaminess. Substitution Note: Optional; can omit but enhances the texture significantly.
- Sliced Green Onions – Garnish for added flavor and color. Optional; can replace with parsley or chives for visual appeal.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to enjoy the deliciousness of Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
-
Season the chicken breasts by sprinkling garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
-
Mix together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water in your slow cooker. Whisk until the mixture is mostly smooth, ensuring every bite has a creamy texture to savor.
-
Add the seasoned chicken to the crock pot, making sure it’s well-covered by the gravy mixture. This guarantees that the chicken cooks evenly and soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
-
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Your home will be filled with heavenly smells during this time!
-
Shred the chicken using two forks, then stir in the sour cream for a touch of tangy creaminess. This final step enhances the dish with rich flavor and a silky texture.
-
Serve the delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra hint of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy?
The rich aroma of slow-cooked chicken mingles with creamy gravy creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a comforting family meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness absorbs the gravy beautifully, creating a cozy and satisfying combination.
- Fluffy Rice: The light texture of rice balances the hearty gravy and chicken, making it a classic pairing that soaks up delicious flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli: Crisp, vibrant greens add a fresh crunch, and their slight bitterness complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are ideal for mopping up leftover gravy, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw offers a refreshing bite that contrasts with the creamy chicken and gravy, enhancing the meal vibrantly.
- Sautéed Kale: Earthy, slightly bitter kale adds healthfulness to the plate, while its robust flavor holds up well against the rich sauce.
- Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine can elevate your meal’s flavors, enriching the overall dining experience with depth.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream can be a delightful ending, balancing sweetness with the savory main course.
These pairings create a well-rounded, comforting meal, allowing your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy to shine while complementing its delightful flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and mix together the gravy components (chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the fridge to maintain quality. Simply combine the seasoned chicken with the gravy mixture in the slow cooker when ready to cook. If prepared in advance, this dish can be cooked from frozen, but be mindful to check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety. Once the cooking is complete, shred the chicken and stir in the sour cream right before serving for just as delicious results!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
-
Freezer: This meal freezes beautifully! Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
-
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess if needed.
-
Texture Note: Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the comfort and flavor of your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy will still shine through!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
-
Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and easy to shred, ensuring a delectable end result.
-
Thickening Gravy: If using frozen chicken, the gravy may be thinner. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in towards the end of cooking to enhance thickness.
-
Safety First: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken, making sure it reaches at least 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
-
Season Wisely: With salt already present in the gravy mix and cream of chicken soup, taste before adding additional salt to avoid an overly salty dish.
-
Customize Your Dish: Don’t hesitate to add frozen vegetables or your favorite spices to the slow cooker for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition in your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy.
-
Garnish for Appeal: Finish with freshly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of parsley to elevate both the look and taste of your comfort dish!
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Variations
Feel the excitement of adding your own spin to this comfort dish for even more deliciousness!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a rich flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in frozen mixed vegetables 30 minutes before serving for a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the gravy mixture for a zesty kick!
- Mushroom Lovers: Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden and add them to the slow cooker for an earthy flavor enhancement.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the gravy for an aromatic uplift that comforts the soul.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest at the end adds a bright, refreshing note that balances the rich gravy beautifully.
- Bacon Crumble: For added crunch and flavor, top with crispy bacon bits just before serving for a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Waffle Base: Serve this delightful dish over crispy waffles instead of traditional sides for a fun twist on chicken and gravy.
This recipe is all about making it your own! Enjoy the journey of flavor exploration!
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs
How should I select chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are firm and pink, with no dark spots or a slimy texture—these indicators suggest freshness. If you’re using frozen chicken, it’s perfectly fine, just be sure it’s defrosted and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F during cooking for safety.
What are the best storage methods and durations for leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness. When stored properly, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy again soon!
Can I freeze Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully! Transfer the cooled remnants into a freezer-safe container, and it will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat at your convenience.
What if my gravy comes out too thin?
Very common! If you find that your gravy is thinner than desired, don’t worry. Consider mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It’ll thicken up beautifully, restoring that comforting texture.
Is there a way to cater this dish for dietary restrictions or family allergies?
Of course! If there are concerns about allergies, you can use gluten-free chicken gravy mix and cream of chicken soup alternatives. Additionally, feel free to swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Always tailor the ingredients to match your family’s needs; everyone deserves to enjoy this delightful dish!
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy: Easy Comfort Food for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts by sprinkling garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides.
- Mix together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water in your slow cooker. Whisk until mostly smooth.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the crock pot, making sure it's well-covered by the gravy mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken using two forks, then stir in the sour cream for a touch of tangy creaminess.
- Serve the Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, and sprinkle with sliced green onions.