Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. Tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. With only a few simple ingredients, this easy dish is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Side Dish Ideas
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Chicken and Gravy
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 (1-ounce) packet chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the gravy.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chicken: You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful, adding extra richness to the dish.
- Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it is too thin, you can make a slurry with cornstarch and water and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the gravy.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste—adding more garlic, onion powder, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Adding a teaspoon of poultry seasoning can also give the dish an added depth.
- Cooking Time: If you are in a hurry, use the high setting of the slow cooker. However, for the most tender chicken, the low setting is recommended for a longer, slower cook.
Variations
1. Creamy Chicken and Gravy
For an extra creamy gravy, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving. This adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
2. Herb-Infused Chicken and Gravy
Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the slow cooker before cooking. These herbs add a fragrant aroma and earthy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
3. Mushroom Chicken and Gravy
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for a mushroom twist. The mushrooms will cook down and blend into the gravy, adding a delightful earthy flavor and texture.
4. Vegetable Chicken and Gravy
For a complete one-pot meal, add sliced carrots, peas, or diced potatoes during the cooking process. This makes the dish heartier and adds a nice pop of color.
5. Spicy Chicken and Gravy
If you like a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy mixture. This will give the dish a subtle kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavors will have time to develop even more, making it just as delicious the next day.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You may need to add a bit more chicken broth when reheating to adjust the consistency of the gravy.
3. Can I Freeze Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce.
4. What Can I Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, or a simple side salad to balance the richness of the gravy.
5. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used in this recipe, but the cooking time may be slightly longer. Be sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Side Dish Ideas
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic side for chicken and gravy. The soft, buttery texture of the potatoes soaks up the rich gravy beautifully, creating the ultimate comfort meal. You can make traditional mashed potatoes or try garlic mashed potatoes for an added flavor boost.
2. Biscuits
Buttery biscuits are another favorite pairing with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. Whether homemade or store-bought, the fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of the delicious gravy.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make a great addition to the meal. The roasted flavors bring a contrast to the creamy gravy, adding balance to the plate.
4. Rice Pilaf
For something different, serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of rice pilaf. The delicate flavor of the rice pilaf complements the rich, savory chicken and gravy perfectly, adding a bit of texture to the dish.
5. Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus brings a fresh, bright flavor to the plate. The slight crunch and mild flavor of asparagus pairs well with the creamy chicken and gravy, providing a healthy and colorful side.
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a simple yet incredibly comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken and a rich, savory gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooker does all the work, giving you a meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or fluffy biscuits, this dish delivers ultimate comfort with every bite.
Add your favorite sides, adjust the flavors to your taste, and enjoy a meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Let this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.
Happy cooking!
