This slow cooker chicken and gravy dish is a real treat! Tender chicken simmers all day in a savory gravy that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
It’s super easy to make! Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. I love serving it over mashed potatoes or rice for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but you could also use thighs for a more flavorful option. If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken breasts work as well; just increase cooking time by an hour if using them.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds savory flavor, but if you prefer homemade, mix dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and a bit of salt as a substitute. It’s a fun way to personalize your dish!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This can be swapped for cream of mushroom or even a homemade version if you want to avoid cans. Using a thicker vegetable broth could also work for a lighter option.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is my go-to, but if you’re out, water mixed with a little chicken bouillon can do the trick. Vegetable broth is another good substitute for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: These add warmth; fresh garlic is a fantastic alternative for a bolder flavor! Adjust according to your taste—more or less is fine!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender chicken in this slow cooker recipe is in the cooking time and temperature. Cooking it low and slow helps to keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with the chicken on the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
- Combine soups and seasonings well so every piece of chicken gets coated.
- The longer cooking time (6-7 hours on low) really helps the flavors meld, so don’t rush it.
After cooking, using two forks to shred the chicken allows it to soak in the gravy, enhancing the flavor further. Patience is rewarding here!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup sautéed onions (optional garnish)
- Chopped fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and will need to cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a comforting meal waiting for you when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure to spread them out as much as possible to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Sauces:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is well-coated. This will infuse all the wonderful flavors into the chicken as it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and tender! You can check by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it into the delicious gravy so every bite is flavorful!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chicken and gravy warm over a bed of cooked rice or mashed potatoes. If you like, sprinkle some sautéed onions and fresh thyme on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are fully cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F after cooking. Cooking on high for about 4-5 hours is recommended if starting with frozen chicken. No need to thaw beforehand, but ensure they’re separated for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own by mixing equal parts of sour cream and chicken broth with a little cornstarch for thickening. Alternatively, you can create a béchamel sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings for a homemade touch!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken and gravy for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chopped carrots, celery, or even mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the mix at the beginning for extra flavor and nutrients.