Easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy Recipe

Make tender, flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy effortlessly with this easy recipe perfect for comforting meals any day of the week. This dish offers juicy chicken simmered slowly alongside a rich, creamy gravy that melds savory spices with the natural goodness of simple ingredients. Ideal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy brings warmth and heartiness to your table with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to do all the hard work while you focus on other things.
• Comfort Food Classic: The rich, creamy gravy paired with tender chicken makes it a perfect dish to soothe and satisfy.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Suitable for family dinners, meal prep, or even a casual gathering, fitting many tastes and occasions.
• Minimal Ingredients: Only a handful of pantry staples needed, making it budget-friendly and easy to shop for.
• Great Leftovers: This recipe tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for lunch or dinner leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients, each adding unique flavor, texture, and richness to the dish. From tender chicken breasts or thighs to savory herbs and creamy gravy components, every element combines for a truly satisfying meal.

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juiciness and tenderness during slow cooking.
• Onion and Garlic: Fresh aromatics that provide depth and a welcoming aroma to the gravy base.
• Chicken Broth: Adds natural savory flavor and moisture to keep the chicken soft and juicy.
• Flour or Cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy for that luscious, velvety consistency.
• Butter: Enriches the gravy with a silky finish and enhances overall flavor.
• Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Gives the gravy a tangy creaminess that balances the savory elements beautifully.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley bring out natural flavors and add freshness.

Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

Feel free to make this Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy your own! It’s incredibly easy to customize, whether you want to cater to dietary preferences, explore new flavors, or simply switch up ingredients to match what you have on hand.

• Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey breasts or even pork for a new twist on the classic gravy pairing.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream with coconut milk yogurt or omit cream cheese, using dairy-free butter substitutes instead.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots, mushrooms, or peas to boost nutrition and texture in the slow cooker.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or garlic powder for a subtle kick to the gravy.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary, basil, or sage for different aromatic profiles.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by trimming excess fat from the chicken and placing the pieces in the slow cooker. Chop onions and mince garlic before adding them on top of the chicken to build the flavor base.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in chicken broth to surround the chicken gently, and sprinkle salt, pepper, and any herbs you choose over the top to infuse the meat and sauce as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender enough to shred with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside. In a separate bowl, mix flour or cornstarch with a little water to form a smooth slurry, then whisk into the liquid in the slow cooker. Add butter and sour cream (or cream cheese), stir thoroughly, and let the gravy thicken over low heat for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the shredded chicken to the thickened gravy, stir gently to coat well, and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

• Use Thighs for More Flavor: Chicken thighs hold moisture better and add extra richness to the dish.
• Brown the Chicken First: Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds layers of caramelized flavor to the gravy.
• Don’t Skip the Slurry: Mixing flour or cornstarch with cold water before adding prevents lumps in the gravy.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your gravy after thickening and add salt or herbs as needed for perfect seasoning.
• Avoid Overcooking: Check chicken early, especially on high settings, to prevent drying out.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley, thyme sprigs, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top brighten the rich gravy and add a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious gravy, or pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy over stuffed baked potatoes or atop warm biscuits for a cozy country-style meal that feels special but is so simple to prepare.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully; store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but boneless chicken works best for consistent cooking and shredding; bone-in may extend cooking times and require extra care.

Is it necessary to thicken the gravy?

While optional, thickening with flour or cornstarch helps create a rich, silky gravy that clings nicely to the chicken, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, and make sure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

How long can I keep this in the slow cooker after cooking?

Once cooked, keep Warm for up to 2 hours, but avoid leaving it too long as chicken can dry out or overcook in extended heat.

What can I serve instead of mashed potatoes?

Rice, egg noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower mash make delicious alternatives that pair well with the creamy gravy.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy recipe is a true gem in the kitchen, combining simplicity with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy and adaptable dish will quickly become a beloved go-to. Give it a try—you’re going to love how it fills your home with warmth and your belly with satisfaction!

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