This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a warm and cozy meal. You simply toss your chicken in the slow cooker, add some gravy, and let it cook until it’s super tender!
I can’t get enough of this dish! It practically makes itself while I do other things. Pair it with some mashed potatoes, and you have a dinner everyone will love! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute with chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great too!
Cream Soups: I love using both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken for depth of flavor. If you need a lighter option, look for low-fat versions or try making your own from scratch for a healthier alternative!
Chicken Broth: You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian dish or prefer not using chicken. Homemade broth will add extra richness!
Onion Soup Mix: If you don’t have onion soup mix, you can substitute it with diced onions or onion powder, which will still give a nice onion flavor to the dish. I personally love adding a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme for extra flavor!
How Do I Make the Gravy Just Right?
Achieving the perfect gravy consistency is all about timing and technique. Here’s how to ensure your gravy is velvety smooth:
- After cooking the chicken, if you want the gravy thicker, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Stir the slurry into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker after removing the chicken. Set the slow cooker to high and let it bubble to thicken.
Remember to stir occasionally to avoid lumps, and taste it before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and your gravy will be delicious!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to cook it in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. So, total time is around 6-7 hours, but the hands-on time is very short. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by laying the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s important that they’re in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
2. Mix the Soups:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s all smooth and well mixed.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure all the chicken is covered so it can soak up all those delicious flavors!
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork!
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you like your gravy a little thicker, take the chicken out of the slow cooker and set it aside, covered, to keep it warm. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this mix into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Cook on high for about 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened up nicely.
6. Coat the Chicken:
Once the gravy is thickened, return the chicken to the slow cooker, stirring to coat it in the gravy fully.
7. Serve!
Plate your chicken and generously spoon the rich gravy over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice for soaking up that gravy. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low. However, if you’re using the high setting, it’s best to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Use as a Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use an equal amount of cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version using a simple roux and add sautéed mushrooms for flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Gravy?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the gravy and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into similar sizes and add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken and sauce mixture at the beginning.
