Introduction
If comfort food had a warm hug, it would taste like Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy. This dish is all about tender, juicy chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy that practically makes itself while you go about your day. With just a handful of ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can come home to a dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so satisfying.
Why is this a winner? Because it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe—minimal prep, maximum flavor. Plus, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even fluffy biscuits. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and the kind of recipe that will quickly earn a spot in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients
Here’s your complete shopping list with exact amounts and a few recommendations:
- 2 lbs (about 4–5 pieces) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more juiciness)
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix (McCormick or Knorr are solid options)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (Campbell’s is classic, but store brand works too)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening, if needed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Steps (Barney Style – super simple)
- Get the chicken ready: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Lightly season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and thyme.
- Mix the gravy base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gravy packets, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Prep your slow cooker: Spray the inside lightly with nonstick cooking spray (optional, but makes cleanup easier).
Cooking Instructions
- Layer it in: Place chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the gravy mixture over the top, making sure all the chicken is coated.
- Set it & forget it: Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Shred & return: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir it into the gravy so everything is coated.
- Thicken if needed: If the gravy seems thin, stir in a slurry of 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water, and cook on high for 15 minutes until it thickens.
- Taste test: Adjust seasoning with a little salt and pepper if needed.
Secret Tip: For extra richness, stir in 1–2 tbsp of butter just before serving. It gives the gravy a silky, restaurant-style finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Spoon the chicken and gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes, white rice, or buttery egg noodles.
- Serve with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Add a basket of warm dinner rolls or biscuits to mop up every drop of gravy.
Additional Tips
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy mixture.
- Make it lighter: Use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery for a slightly different (and lighter) taste.
- For a thicker texture: Swap some chicken broth for heavy cream.
- Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower mash or sautéed spinach.
- Shortcut hack: Use rotisserie chicken—just reduce cook time to 2 hours on low since the meat is already cooked.
Nutrition (per serving, serves 6)
- Calories: ~285
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
(Values may vary depending on exact brands and portion sizes.)
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but add 1 extra hour to the cooking time and make sure it reaches 165°F internally.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Q: What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable gravy mix with veggie broth.
Wrap-Up
Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is proof that delicious comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and your slow cooker, you’ll end up with tender chicken bathed in rich, savory gravy that tastes like it’s been simmering all day (because it has!).
Fun fact: Dishes like this have roots in Southern cooking traditions, where gravy was a way to stretch simple ingredients into something filling and flavorful. Today, it’s the ultimate cozy meal that feels like home.
So the next time you want a no-fuss dinner that everyone will love, let your slow cooker do the work—this recipe is sure to become a regular at your table.
