Slow Cooker Chicken And Gravy Recipe

The Coziest Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe for Your Family

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty slow cooker chicken and gravy that promises to become your new weeknight dinner staple.

Tender chicken pieces swim in a rich, velvety sauce that brings warmth to every bite.

Minimal effort transforms simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal.

Kitchen magic happens when you let the slow cooker work its wonder throughout the day.

No complicated techniques or hard-to-find spices stand between you and this delicious dinner.

Families will gather around the table, eager to savor each comforting spoonful.

This recipe guarantees a stress-free cooking experience that delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss.

Come hungry and leave happy with this foolproof chicken and gravy that’s sure to become a household favorite.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

  • Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just add an extra 1-2 hours to the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

  • Is ranch seasoning mix necessary?

While ranch seasoning adds great flavor, you can substitute it with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and a pinch of garlic powder if you don’t have the mix on hand.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat milk, and skinless chicken breasts to create a lighter version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for more nutrition.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Is Comfort Food

  • Minimal Prep Magic: Toss ingredients into the slow cooker with zero complicated steps, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without stress.
  • Hands-Off Cooking Wonder: Let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy free time, transforming simple chicken into a comforting, rich meal with zero constant monitoring.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Create a hearty, creamy dish that satisfies picky eaters and adults alike, making mealtime a delightful experience everyone will love and request again.
  • Versatile Serving Sensation: Serve over multiple bases like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, offering flexible meal options that adapt to different preferences and pantry ingredients.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Meat Base:
  • Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Tender protein that forms the core of this comforting slow cooker dish.
Gravy Components:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps create a smooth gravy consistency.
  • Milk: Contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Creates a savory and flavorful profile that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the gravy and create a smooth sauce.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of color and fresh herb flavor to the finished dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Select juicy chicken breasts or tender thighs and nestle them into your slow cooker. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper to awaken the flavors.

Step 2: Whip Up the Magical Sauce

Grab a mixing bowl and create a creamy dream sauce by blending:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Ranch seasoning mix
  • Chicken broth
  • Milk
  • Flour
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Whisk everything together until the mixture transforms into a smooth, velvety liquid.

Step 3: Blanket the Chicken

Pour the luxurious sauce over the chicken, ensuring every inch gets a delicious coating. The sauce should completely embrace the protein.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen. Cook on low setting for 6-7 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Shred and Mingle

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken. Using two forks, shred the meat into delectable strips. Return the shredded goodness back into the sauce, stirring to create a harmonious blend.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

For the ultimate comfort meal, serve this creamy chicken over fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or twirly egg noodles. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

  • Chicken Choice Matters: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the most tender and flavorful results, ensuring even cooking throughout the dish.
  • Prevent Dryness: Avoid overcooking by checking chicken's internal temperature, which should reach 165°F to maintain moisture and prevent toughness.
  • Gravy Consistency Hack: Whisk flour thoroughly to eliminate lumps and create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
  • Low and Slow Magic: Use low heat setting for maximum tenderness, allowing chicken to become incredibly soft and easily shreddable.
  • Flavor Boosting Tip: Sprinkle extra ranch seasoning or add a dash of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for enhanced taste profile.

Variation Ideas for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

  • Dairy-Free Deconstructed: Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk and use dairy-free cream of chicken soup for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Low-Sodium Lean Version: Swap regular chicken broth with low-sodium broth and reduce added salt, using herbs like thyme and rosemary for flavor enhancement.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable broth and mushroom-based cream soup for a plant-based alternative.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Remove flour, use xanthan gum as thickener, replace milk with heavy cream, and serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Pairing Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

  • Pair with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Create a velvety base that soaks up the rich gravy, enhancing the chicken's tender texture and complementing its savory flavors.
  • Complement with Crisp Green Salad: Add a fresh, light side with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty chicken and gravy.
  • Boost with Buttery Roasted Vegetables: Prepare roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus with a touch of garlic and herbs to provide a colorful, nutritious accompaniment.
  • Match with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a medium-bodied white wine with subtle oak notes to cut through the creamy gravy and refresh the palate between bites.

Storage Advice for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
  • Transfer cooled chicken and gravy to freezer-safe containers or bags. Seal tightly, label with date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain best quality.
  • Place chicken and gravy in microwave-safe dish. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
  • Pour chicken and gravy into saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add splash of chicken broth if mixture seems dry.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow Cooker Chicken And Gravy Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken And Gravy Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty slow cooker chicken and gravy promises comfort with minimal effort, delivering rich flavors that melt in your mouth. Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup

Seasoning and Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 packet (1 ounce / 28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Arrange chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker, seasoning generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor profile.
  2. Whisk together cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, milk, flour, garlic powder, and onion powder in a medium bowl until the mixture becomes completely smooth and homogeneous.
  3. Gently cascade the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring complete and even coverage across all protein surfaces.
  4. Secure the slow cooker lid and set the temperature: low setting for 6-7 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become supremely tender and easily manipulated.
  5. After cooking duration, carefully extract chicken from the slow cooker and utilize two forks to meticulously shred the meat into delicate strands.
  6. Reintegrate shredded chicken into the existing gravy, stirring thoroughly to distribute meat evenly throughout the sauce.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for visual appeal and additional herbaceous notes.
  8. Present the dish over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or tender egg noodles to transform this preparation into a satisfying, complete meal.

Notes

  • Swap cream of chicken soup for a homemade version to reduce sodium and control ingredients for a healthier alternative.
  • Use Greek yogurt or low-fat milk instead of whole milk to create a lighter, protein-packed gravy without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Customize seasoning by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an elevated flavor profile that transforms the basic recipe into a gourmet dish.
  • For gluten-free dietary needs, replace regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the gravy’s thickness and texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 282 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star