This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is super simple and oh-so-tasty! You just pop the chicken in, cover it with savory gravy, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Easy-peasy!
Cooking it this way makes the chicken tender and juicy—a real win! I like to serve it over rice or mashed potatoes. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they stay tender during slow cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use chicken thighs, which also add richness.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is crucial for the creamy texture of the gravy. If you prefer a homemade version, mix equal parts of chicken broth and milk with a bit of flour for thickening. Dairy-free options can use coconut milk or dairy-free cream soups.
Onion Soup Mix: This mix adds a lot of flavor quickly. If you don’t have it, you can create your own with onion powder, a pinch of salt, and dried herbs like parsley or thyme. I like to add a little extra garlic, too.
Cooked Rice: A classic choice for serving. Quinoa or mashed potatoes work well too if you’re looking for a different base. Just make sure they are ready to soak up all that delicious gravy!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor and Texture with Slow Cooking?
Slow cooking is all about letting flavors meld together, and this recipe makes the most of that. For the best results, follow these simple steps:
- **Layer the Chicken:** Place chicken in the slow cooker directly—don’t pre-cook it. This helps it soak up flavors.
- **Mix the Sauce Well:** Combine the cream of chicken soup, broth, and seasonings thoroughly in a bowl for even flavor distribution.
- **Cooking Time Matters:** Choose low for tender, juicy chicken or high for a quicker meal. Just be careful not to overcook; chicken can dry out.
- **Shred for Texture:** Shred the chicken in the cooker with forks instead of removing it. This allows it to absorb the gravy even more.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 lbs)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cook for 6 to 7 hours on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high) while you relax or do other things. It’s perfect for a busy day!
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 evenly spaced so they cook nicely. No need to do much with them yet; they’ll soak up all the flavor from the gravy!
2. Mixing the Gravy:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy. This will be the gravy that makes your chicken super tasty!
3. Pouring the Gravy:
Now, pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure all the chicken is covered with that delicious sauce. This will help keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred. Just relax and let the slow cooker do its magic!
5. Shredding the Chicken:
After the cooking time is up, take the lid off the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the pot. Give it a good mix with the gravy so every piece is coated in that yummy sauce.
6. Serving:
Your chicken and gravy are ready to be served! Spoon the shredded chicken and gravy over a bed of cooked rice. If you have some fresh thyme, sprinkle it on top for a little extra flavor and a pretty touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to cook on high for about 4 to 5 hours instead of low. The extra time ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly. You can shred it in the slow cooker as usual once it’s done.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of 1 cup of sour cream or yogurt mixed with 1 tablespoon of chicken bouillon. Another option is to use cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a different flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! You can add chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes to the slow cooker along with the chicken. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook through in the same time as the chicken.
