If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that practically makes itself and fills your home with incredible aromas, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection in a luscious, creamy gravy will make you want to savor every bite. Whether you’re after an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this dish delivers flavor, warmth, and simplicity all in one pot. Plus, it’s so versatile, pairing beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Each component brings something special to the table—whether it’s creaminess, savory depth, or fresh brightness—that melds into a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.
- 2½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The tender, lean protein at the heart of this comforting meal.
- 10.25 ounces cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy goodness and rich flavor that forms the base of the gravy.
- 1.74 ounces chicken gravy mix: Boosts the depth and savory notes, making the gravy beautifully luscious.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds subtle, natural chicken flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- ½ cup sour cream: Stirred in at the end for a tangy creaminess that makes the gravy silky smooth.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and aroma to balance the creaminess.
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes: Perfect accompaniments that soak up the luscious gravy.
- Fresh parsley: A pop of color and fresh herbal note that brightens each plate.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures the chicken is perfectly nestled to absorb all the flavors from the gravy mixture you’ll prepare next. Keeping the chicken whole means it stays juicy and ready to be shredded later for maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Whisk the Gravy Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and low-sodium chicken broth until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture will become the velvety sauce that infuses the chicken with rich flavor throughout the slow cooking process.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce and Cook
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and becomes tender. The slow cooking allows all the flavors to mingle beautifully and the chicken to fall apart effortlessly.
Step 4: Shred and Finish
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This step not only ensures every bite is tender but also lets the shredded chicken soak up even more of that rich gravy. Then, stir in the sour cream, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste, creating a creamy and perfectly seasoned sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped finely and sprinkled on top adds a fresh herbaceous touch along with a lovely pop of green that makes the dish visually inviting. You can also add a dash of cracked black pepper for a rustic finish.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy cooked rice—both sides absorb the gravy beautifully, turning every bite into a comforting mouthful. For a complete meal, consider serving steamed seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad on the side to balance richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shredded chicken and gravy over biscuits for a Southern-style comfort food vibe. Alternatively, spoon the mixture into puff pastry shells or top with crispy fried onions for added texture and presentation flair. This dish’s versatile nature makes it easy to dress up or keep delightfully simple.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, so reheating brings back even more comforting taste. Just be sure to cool it down before refrigerating to maintain quality.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover chicken and gravy by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label and date it, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain that creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm the sauce evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the gravy seems too thick after refrigeration. Microwave reheating works too but stir halfway through to ensure even temperature.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer meat that stays extra juicy and flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed, but thighs work beautifully in this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe.
Is it necessary to shred the chicken?
Shredding the chicken helps the gravy penetrate the meat better and gives the dish a nice texture. However, if you prefer, you can serve the chicken breasts whole—just be sure they’re cooked through and tender.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. Check your cream of chicken soup and gravy mix ingredients to ensure they are also dairy-free or find suitable substitutes.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can make a quick homemade version by creating a simple roux with butter, flour, chicken broth, and a bit of milk or cream. This way, you control the ingredients and still get that creamy base for the gravy.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, doubling the ingredients works well if you have a large slow cooker or multiple cookers. Just make sure there’s enough room for even cooking, and be prepared to increase cook time slightly if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is one of those easy, no-fuss dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s simple to prepare, uses straightforward ingredients, and yields big on taste and comfort. Give it a try and discover how something so effortless can become a permanent favorite in your meal rotation. Your future self and your hungry loved ones will thank you!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe offers a comforting and convenient meal featuring tender shredded chicken simmered in a creamy, flavorful gravy. Perfect for busy days, this hearty dish pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Gravy
- 10.25 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 1.74 ounces chicken gravy mix
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
Seasoning and Garnish
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker, evenly spaced to ensure even cooking.
- Mix the gravy base: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, and low-sodium chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and cook: Pour the soup and gravy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid securely.
- Cook the chicken: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices and gravy.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the shredded chicken and gravy over cooked rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the gravy mix.
- If thicker gravy is preferred, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- This recipe freezes well — portion and freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat option.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
