Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Recipe Description
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a comforting, easy slow-cooker meal featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs cooked slowly in a rich, creamy, savory gravy. The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful as it simmers with herbs and seasonings, making it a perfect family dinner served over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Servings
Serves: 6 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: About 6 hours
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2.5–3 lbs (1.1–1.4 kg) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the Gravy
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Optional Add-ins
- Sliced mushrooms
- Chopped onions
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Make the Gravy Mixture
- In a bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, chicken broth, garlic, and parsley.
- Mix until smooth.
- Add to Crockpot
- Place chicken in the slow cooker.
- Pour gravy mixture over the chicken.
- Add butter on top.
- Slow Cook
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 5–6 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cover and cook:
- Finish the Gravy
- Remove chicken and shred or slice.
- Stir gravy well and mix chicken back in.
- Add sour cream or cream if desired.
- Serve
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or biscuits.
Recipe Notes
- Chicken thighs create a richer, juicier result, while chicken breasts are leaner.
- Do not add too much salt because canned soups and gravy mixes already contain sodium.
- For thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the crockpot during the last 15–20 minutes.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day because the flavors develop.
Helpful Tips
✅ Avoid dry chicken: Do not overcook; check chicken near the end of cooking time.
✅ Creamier texture: Add sour cream only near the end to prevent curdling.
✅ More flavor: Brown chicken lightly before slow cooking for deeper flavor.
✅ Meal prep friendly: Store portions in airtight containers for easy lunches.
✅ Freezer option: Freeze cooked chicken and gravy for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered noodles
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Dinner rolls
- Green salad
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 850mg
(Nutrition varies depending on ingredients and serving size.)
Health Benefits
High in Protein
Chicken provides high-quality protein that supports muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Provides Essential Nutrients
Chicken contains vitamins and minerals such as:
- Vitamin B6
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
Comforting and Satisfying
The combination of protein and creamy gravy can help keep you full and satisfied.
Easy Balanced Meal
When served with vegetables and whole grains, it can become a balanced dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
A: It is safer to thaw chicken before slow cooking so it cooks evenly and reaches a safe temperature.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cream of chicken soup?
A: Yes. Replace it with a homemade mixture of chicken broth, milk, flour, and seasonings.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Chicken thighs are often more tender and flavorful.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free cream alternatives and check soup ingredients.
Q: How do I reheat it?
A: Warm gently on the stove or microwave and add a little broth if the gravy becomes too thick.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
A: Yes. Carrots, mushrooms, peas, and green beans work well.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare it, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve.
Recipe Rating Idea: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A classic slow-cooker comfort meal that is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.