Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Introduction

Few dishes comfort the soul like a warm, hearty plate of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. This recipe combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a rich, creamy gravy that soaks perfectly into mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug on a plate—simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using pantry-friendly ingredients like cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings, the crockpot does most of the heavy lifting. By dinnertime, you’ll have juicy, fall-apart chicken smothered in silky gravy that’s ready to serve. It’s truly the definition of “set it and forget it” comfort food.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s:

• Comforting: Every bite brings warmth and satisfaction.
• Effortless: Minimal prep—just toss everything into the crockpot.
• Family-friendly: Kids, adults, and even picky eaters devour it.
• Versatile: Works well with rice, pasta, potatoes, or bread.
• Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself making on repeat because it’s reliable, delicious, and fuss-free.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s the perfect meal for busy weekdays, cozy weekends, or when you just need some soul-warming food without spending hours in the kitchen. The gravy elevates simple chicken into a comfort food classic that feels restaurant-worthy but is made at home.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time (in Crockpot): 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4–6 hours (hands-off mostly)

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6
• Calories (approx): 350–380 per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
• 1 packet (1 oz) chicken gravy mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for creamier gravy)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot Base

1. In a bowl, whisk together gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and thyme until smooth.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Crockpot

1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Pour gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 4: Shred & Enrich the Gravy

1. Shred chicken with two forks directly in the crockpot or remove and shred on a plate.
2. Stir chicken into the gravy.
3. For creamier gravy, stir in ½ cup sour cream before serving.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
• Pair with steamed rice, buttered noodles, or egg noodles.
• Add a side of buttered biscuits or crusty bread for soaking up the gravy.
• Serve with green beans, roasted carrots, or corn for a balanced plate.

Recipe Tips

1. Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts dry out if left too long—aim for shreddable but moist.
2. Adjust gravy thickness: If too thick, add extra broth; if too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
3. Go low-sodium: Use reduced-sodium broth and gravy mix to control salt levels.
4. Double batch: This recipe doubles easily—great for meal prep or crowds.

Variations

• Chicken & Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for earthy flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Upgrade: Stir in rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning.
• Creamy Ranch Version: Add a packet of ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
• Healthier Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze chicken and gravy in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Mixing bowl & whisk
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw first for even cooking. If using frozen, add about 30–45 extra minutes.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely—thighs are juicier and more flavorful.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free condensed soup and omit sour cream.

Q4: Can I make it in the Instant Pot?
Yes—cook on high pressure for about 10–12 minutes, then shred.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food classic—hearty, rich, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking, you get tender shredded chicken smothered in silky gravy that’s perfect over potatoes, rice, or biscuits. It’s cozy, family-friendly, and versatile enough to fit any occasion.

This is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to—whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, it never disappoints.