Easy & Comforting Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy: Your Go-To Weeknight Meal Solution
In the relentless pace of modern life, finding the time and energy to prepare a wholesome, satisfying meal for your family can often feel like an overwhelming challenge. We’ve all been there – staring at an empty refrigerator, dreading the thought of elaborate cooking after a long day. But what if you could come home to the heartwarming aroma of a delicious, home-cooked dinner, requiring almost no effort on your part? This is where our incredible Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe enters the scene, revolutionizing your weeknight routine and bringing smiles to everyone at the dinner table.
This isn’t just another slow cooker dish; it’s a testament to simple, delicious cooking. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, slow-cooked to perfection, swimming in a rich, creamy, and deeply savory gravy. This ultimate comfort food recipe is not only incredibly easy to make in your slow cooker, but it also embodies the “dump, set, and forget” philosophy. Just gather a handful of readily available ingredients, combine them, set your slow cooker to work, and walk away. Hours later, you’ll return to a fragrant kitchen and a satisfying meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or even casual tailgating events, this delicious and fuss-free dinner is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Beyond its incredible ease and comforting appeal, this versatile slow cooker chicken and gravy is a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. We frequently prepare this when hosting friends for tailgating events; it’s the ideal “fix it and leave it” meal that keeps warm and ready to enjoy while the game unfolds. The hassle-free nature of slow cooking means you can focus on entertaining and relaxing, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Traditionally, we love to serve this luscious chicken and gravy over a fluffy bed of white rice, allowing the grains to soak up every drop of the rich, savory sauce. However, for those who appreciate a different texture or simply love a good bread for dipping, it’s equally delightful served with a nice, crusty bread roll, perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.
Quick Navigation: Skip Ahead to What You Need!
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Success
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Recipe Variations and Substitute Ideas
- Essential Equipment
- More Slow Cooker Delights
- Mel’s Kitchen Notes & Expert Tips
- Perfect Serving Suggestions
- Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Full Recipe Card
Why This Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy Will Be Your New Weeknight Hero
This isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical. Here’s a deeper look into what makes this Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy an absolute must-try for every home cook:
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You’ll be delighted by how few items you need to create such a rich and flavorful dish. Most of the ingredients – typically canned soups, gravy packets, and chicken broth – are common pantry staples. This not only saves you a trip to the grocery store but also makes spontaneous cooking a breeze. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without an extensive shopping list.
- Economical and Budget-Friendly: In today’s world, finding delicious and affordable meals is a top priority for many families. This recipe brilliantly fits the bill! Utilizing cost-effective ingredients like chicken breasts (which are often on sale) and readily available canned goods, this dish proves that you don’t have to compromise on taste or quality to stay within your budget. It’s a smart choice for feeding a crowd or managing weekly meal expenses.
- Unbelievably Quick Preparation: Imagine having dinner prepped and ready to cook in less than 5 minutes! That’s the reality with this slow cooker chicken and gravy. The “dump and go” nature means you spend mere minutes combining ingredients before your slow cooker takes over, freeing you up to tackle other tasks, relax, or simply enjoy your evening without the stress of constant kitchen duty.
- A Guaranteed Family Favorite: Slow cooker chicken dishes are renowned for their widespread appeal, and this recipe is no exception. Its classic flavors and comforting texture are universally loved, making it an instant hit with both adults and children. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, prompting requests for seconds.
- The Epitome of Comfort Food: There’s something inherently soothing about a warm bowl of creamy chicken and gravy. Whether it’s a brisk autumn evening, a cold winter night, or even just a day when you need a culinary hug, this dish delivers profound comfort. It fills your home with an inviting aroma and your belly with wholesome goodness, making every meal feel special.
- Perfect for Picky Eaters: If you’re a parent battling with picky eaters (like many of us!), this recipe is your secret weapon. The smooth, creamy gravy, combined with tender shredded chicken, is free from any “offensive tidbits” like visible onions or chunky vegetables that might deter sensitive palates. Kids tend to wolf this down without a second thought, ensuring a peaceful and well-fed mealtime.
- Excellent for Leftovers and Meal Prep: This recipe is a gift that keeps on giving. It not only tastes fantastic fresh out of the slow cooker, but it also reheats beautifully. This makes it an ideal candidate for meal prepping, providing delicious lunches or effortless dinners throughout the week. You can even use leftover cooked chicken to speed up the process even further.
Gather Your Groceries: Essential Ingredients for This Hearty Dish
Creating a truly memorable Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy begins with selecting the right ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you’ll only need a few key items, most of which are likely already gracing your pantry shelves. Each component plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors and creamy texture that make this dish so comforting.
For exact quantities, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post. However, here’s an overview of the star players in this culinary creation:
- Large Chicken Breasts: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and their ability to become incredibly tender and shreddable in the slow cooker. They absorb the gravy’s flavors beautifully.
- Creole Seasoning: This vibrant spice blend is our secret weapon, adding a fantastic depth of flavor and a subtle, zesty kick to the chicken. It infuses the meat with a delicious seasoning from the very beginning.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (Canned): A foundational ingredient that provides a rich, savory chicken flavor and contributes significantly to the gravy’s smooth, velvety consistency.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (Canned): Partnered with the cream of chicken, this soup adds an earthy undertone and enhances the overall creaminess of the sauce. Even mushroom skeptics often enjoy this, as the mushroom flavor blends subtly into the background, enriching the gravy without overpowering it.
- Chicken Gravy Mix (Packets): These convenient packets are essential for achieving that classic, hearty gravy consistency and robust chicken flavor. They ensure your sauce is perfectly seasoned and thick.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Used to thin out the condensed soups and gravy mixes to the ideal pourable consistency, while also layering in additional chicken flavor. Opting for low sodium allows you greater control over the final saltiness of your dish.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): A small sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of bright green color and a fresh, herbaceous note, elevating the visual appeal and adding a hint of freshness.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Crucial for fine-tuning the seasoning. Remember, many of the canned ingredients are already salty, so taste before you add more!
With these straightforward ingredients, you are well-equipped to create a deeply satisfying and effortlessly delicious Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy that will be enjoyed by all.
Recipe Walkthrough: Detailed Instructions for Slow Cooker Success
One of the greatest joys of this Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy is its simplicity. Follow these easy, detailed steps to ensure perfectly tender chicken and a rich, creamy gravy every single time. Below is a visual collage to guide you, followed by comprehensive instructions:
- Step 1: Arrange the Chicken. Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. A single layer is ideal for uniform cooking and to ensure each piece of chicken gets coated in the delicious gravy.
- Step 2: Season the Chicken. Sprinkle the chicken breasts generously with the Creole Seasoning. This initial seasoning is key to infusing the chicken with robust flavor as it cooks, building the foundation of taste for your entire dish.
- Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of condensed soup (cream of chicken and cream of mushroom), both packets of chicken gravy mix, and the low sodium chicken broth. Using a whisk, thoroughly blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps. This creates your rich and flavorful gravy base.
- Step 4: Combine and Cook. Carefully pour the prepared gravy mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged. Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Cook on the LOW setting for 7-8 hours. For a quicker option when you’re pressed for time, you can cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours. Remember, cooking on low generally results in more tender chicken and a deeper, more melded flavor.
- Step 5: Shred the Chicken. Once the cooking cycle is complete, the chicken should be incredibly tender and practically falling apart. Using two forks, gently shred the chicken breasts directly within the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy gravy, ensuring every piece is coated. This helps the chicken absorb all the wonderful flavors and thickens the gravy slightly.
- Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and black pepper. Given the sodium content of the canned soups and gravy mixes, you may find that little to no additional salt is required. For a vibrant finish and a hint of freshness, sprinkle a small amount of chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.
- Step 7: Serve with Your Favorite Sides. Your creamy, savory Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy is now ready! Serve it hot over fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or tender egg noodles for a truly satisfying meal.
Chef’s Hint: This recipe utilizes several ingredients that are already rich in sodium (like canned soups and gravy mixes). Therefore, the need for additional salt at the end of cooking may be minimal or even unnecessary. We often find it perfectly seasoned without adding more. Always taste your gravy after shredding the chicken and adjust salt and pepper sparingly to your personal preference. It’s easier to add more than to take it away!
Customizing Your Comfort: Delicious Recipe Variations and Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to adapt recipes to suit your taste, dietary needs, or simply what you have on hand. This Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is wonderfully versatile, offering numerous avenues for customization. Here are some fantastic ideas to make this dish uniquely yours:
- Chicken Thighs or Tenders: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are our go-to, you can easily substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and even more tender result. Chicken tenders can also be used and may cook a bit faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly for different cuts.
- Garlic Power Up: For a more pronounced aromatic depth, add 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder (or 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic) to the gravy mixture. Garlic always complements chicken and gravy beautifully.
- Subtle Onion Flavor: If you enjoy the mild sweetness of onion but prefer not to have visible pieces, incorporate 1 teaspoon of onion powder into your gravy base. It adds a lovely background note without any texture.
- Creamier, Tangier Gravy: To achieve an even richer, creamier, and slightly tangy gravy, stir in about ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds a luxurious texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Ranch Seasoning Twist: For a completely different flavor profile, consider swapping one of the chicken gravy packets for a packet of dry Ranch seasoning mix. The herbaceous, zesty notes of Ranch add an unexpected but delightful kick to the gravy.
- Classic Poultry Seasoning: If Creole seasoning isn’t to your taste or you don’t have it, a traditional poultry seasoning blend works wonderfully. It will provide a more classic, aromatic, and savory chicken flavor that’s equally comforting.
- Turkey Breasts for a Holiday Feel: This recipe isn’t just for chicken! Boneless, skinless turkey breasts can be used as a fantastic alternative, creating a dish reminiscent of Thanksgiving flavors that you can enjoy any time of year.
- Healthier Carbohydrate Sides: For those looking to reduce carbohydrates, serve this over cauliflower rice instead of white rice. Alternatively, brown rice offers a nutty flavor and added fiber, making for a wholesome side.
- Cranberry Sauce Pairing: For a surprising and delicious twist, serve your chicken and gravy with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side. The tart sweetness of the cranberry cuts through the rich gravy beautifully, creating a harmonious and festive flavor combination.
- Instant Pot Adaptation for Speed: If you need dinner on the table even faster, this recipe can be adapted for the Instant Pot. Brown the chicken if desired, then add all ingredients and pressure cook on high for 10-15 minutes, followed by a quick release. Shred the chicken, and if the gravy needs thickening, use the sauté function with a cornstarch slurry.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to discover your new favorite rendition of this comforting slow cooker meal!
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Necessary Gear: Simple Equipment for Effortless Slow Cooking
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One of the many charms of this Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is that it requires minimal specialized kitchen equipment. You won’t need an arsenal of fancy gadgets; just a few basic tools will suffice to bring this comforting meal to life:
- A Slow Cooker: This is, of course, the star of the show! We used a 6-quart slow cooker for this particular recipe, which is perfectly sized for the ingredients and yields approximately 4-6 generous servings. A 7-quart model would also be an excellent choice, offering a bit more room if you plan to double the recipe or add extra vegetables. A reliable slow cooker ensures consistent, even cooking and allows for that wonderful “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience.
Consider this highly-rated 7 Quart Crock-Pot for your kitchen! - A Medium to Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining your creamy soup and gravy mixture before it goes into the slow cooker. A bowl with ample space will make whisking much easier and prevent any spills, ensuring a smooth and lump-free gravy base.
Browse a selection of durable Glass Mixing Bowls here! - A Whisk or Sturdy Fork: You’ll need this to ensure your gravy ingredients are perfectly blended into a smooth consistency. A whisk is generally preferred for eliminating lumps quickly, but a strong fork can also do the trick in a pinch.
That’s truly all the specialized gear you’ll need! With these fundamental kitchen tools, you’re perfectly equipped to prepare a delicious and stress-free slow cooker chicken and gravy.
Discover More Irresistible Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love
If the sheer simplicity and mouth-watering results of this Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy have won you over, then you’re in for a treat! Our collection of slow cooker recipes is brimming with more hands-off culinary creations that promise exceptional flavor and unmatched convenience. Embrace the magic of “set it and forget it” cooking with these additional favorites:
- Slow Cooker Tri Tip Roast
- Kielbasa and Baked Beans Slow Cooker Recipe
- Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Crockpot Cracker Barrel Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
From tender roasts to hearty chilis and cheesy casseroles, our slow cooker recipes are curated to simplify your meal planning and infuse your dinners with incredible flavor. Dive into these effortless dishes for endless culinary inspiration!
Mel’s Kitchen Notes: Expert Tips for a Perfect Gravy Every Time
Pro Tip for Thicker Gravy: If you find yourself craving a gravy that’s a little more robust and clingy, instant mashed potato flakes are an absolute game-changer! This brilliant trick is a fantastic way to thicken almost any gravy or sauce, and it surprisingly enhances the flavor without making it taste distinctly like potatoes. To implement this, simply remove the lid from your slow cooker after the chicken has shredded (or just before serving). Add the instant mashed potato flakes slowly, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until your desired rich, thick consistency is achieved. Be mindful not to add too much too quickly, as it thickens quite rapidly!
Beyond this essential thickening tip, here are a few more insights from my kitchen to help you master this comforting dish:
- Optimal Chicken Placement: Ensure your chicken breasts are arranged in a relatively even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This promotes even cooking and allows the chicken to be thoroughly enveloped by the gravy, resulting in consistently tender meat.
- Taste Before You Salt: As highlighted in our hint, many of the pre-packaged ingredients in this recipe contain significant sodium. Always taste your gravy after shredding the chicken before adding any additional salt. You can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away!
- Adjusting Gravy Consistency: If, after shredding the chicken, your gravy appears too thick for your liking, don’t fret! You can easily thin it out to your preferred consistency by stirring in a splash of extra low-sodium chicken broth, a bit of milk, or even a touch of cream. Add liquids gradually until perfect.
- Optional Searing for Depth: For an extra layer of savory flavor and a beautiful golden hue, consider quickly searing your chicken breasts in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before placing them in the slow cooker. This caramelization creates a deeper, more complex taste, though the recipe is absolutely delicious without this extra step.
These simple notes and tips will empower you to create a perfectly executed, mouth-watering Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy every single time.
What to Serve with Your Creamy Chicken and Gravy
While our Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy is undoubtedly a hearty and fulfilling meal on its own, it truly transforms into an unforgettable feast when paired with the right side dishes. The rich, savory, and creamy gravy is perfectly designed to complement a variety of accompaniments, soaking into them and enhancing every bite. Here are some of our absolute favorite dishes that create a harmonious and utterly delicious meal alongside this comforting recipe:
- Perfectly Cooked White Rice
- Authentic Amish Mashed Potatoes
- Old Fashioned Southern Biscuits
- Crispy Instant Pot Potatoes
Beyond these classic pairings, consider adding a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a fresh, crisp counterpoint, or steamed green beans tossed with a bit of butter and garlic for a touch of vibrant vegetable goodness. The possibilities are truly endless for crafting a balanced, visually appealing, and utterly delicious meal around this sensational slow cooker chicken and gravy.
How to Store and Reheat Your Delicious Leftovers Safely
This Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy is so incredibly satisfying, you might find yourself with very few leftovers! However, if you do have any, you’ll be pleased to know that this dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep or a quick, comforting lunch the next day. Proper storage is key to maintaining both its delicious flavor and food safety:
- Refrigeration: Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps prevent bacteria growth and keeps your food fresh. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the lid is sealed tightly to prevent any flavors from escaping or absorbing from other foods in your fridge.
- Freezing: For longer-term storage, this recipe freezes exceptionally well. After the chicken and gravy have cooled completely, transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to minimize freezer burn. Label with the date. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop (Recommended): The best method for reheating is gently on the stovetop. Transfer the desired amount of chicken and gravy to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened significantly in the refrigerator, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency. Heat until thoroughly warmed through.
- Microwave: For individual portions, place the chicken and gravy in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power, stirring every minute or so, until thoroughly heated. Be careful not to overheat, as this can sometimes make the chicken a bit tough.
Having delicious, homemade comfort food ready to go days after you’ve made it is one of the many wonderful benefits of preparing this delightful slow cooker meal!
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Full Recipe: Comforting Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy
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Comforting Crock-Pot Chicken and Gravy
Whip up easy comfort with this Crock-Pot Chicken & Gravy recipe! Creamy & flavorful, it’s a weeknight dinner winner! #crockpot #chickenandgravy
5 mins
7 hrs
7 hrs 5 mins
6
American, Slow Cooker
Melanie Cagle
Equipment
- Glass Mixing Bowls
- 7 Quart Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 4 Each Large Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning
- 1 (10-½ Ounce) Can Cream of Chicken Soup (condensed)
- 1 (10-½ Ounce) Can Cream of Mushroom Soup (condensed)
- 2 (1 Ounce) Packs Chicken Gravy Mix
- 1 Cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the chicken breasts to the bottom of your slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with the Creole Seasoning.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and low sodium chicken broth until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Pour this creamy gravy mixture over the top of the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on the LOW setting for 7-8 hours (or on HIGH for 4-5 hours for a faster cook).
- Once cooked, use two forks to easily shred the tender chicken directly within the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy to combine thoroughly. Taste the gravy and season with additional salt and pepper as needed, being mindful of the sodium already present in the canned ingredients.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm with your preferred side dishes.
Notes
Due to the inherently sodium-rich nature of the canned soups and gravy packets used in this recipe, you will likely find that very little, if any, additional salt is required. We highly recommend tasting the gravy first after shredding the chicken before adding any more seasoning to ensure it meets your personal preference without becoming overly salty.
For those who prefer a notably thicker gravy, an excellent and effective trick is to incorporate instant mashed potato flakes. After the chicken has been shredded and stirred into the gravy, add the potato flakes slowly, one tablespoon at a time, continuously stirring until your desired thick consistency is achieved. This method enhances the gravy’s body beautifully without imparting an overly potato-like flavor, ensuring a rich and luxurious sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 231kcal |
Carbohydrates: 9g |
Protein: 29g |
Fat: 8g |
Saturated Fat: 2g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g |
Cholesterol: 74mg |
Sodium: 860mg |
Sugar: 3g
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