Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Are you looking for a filling, easy dinner that almost prepares itself? This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is your answer! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Ready in just a few hours with minimal prep, it’s a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal that’s naturally gluten-free and adaptable for various diets. My family loves this recipe—it’s been a staple in our home for years, especially on chilly evenings when we crave something warm and comforting. This slow-cooker favorite will become your go-to for effortless dinners, packed with flavor and requiring only a handful of pantry staples. Let’s get started, step by step, on how to prepare this delectable dish!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Creating this mouthwatering dish is as simple as tossing ingredients into your slow cooker and letting it work its magic. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—minimal prep, maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with savory flavors while creating a velvety gravy that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Here’s what goes in crockpot chicken and gravy to make this comforting dish:

• 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless (or thighs for a juicier choice)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 packet (1 oz) of dried ranch seasoning blend
• 1 packet (1 oz) chicken gravy mix (or brown gravy mix for deeper flavor)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water for a lighter option)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Add some fresh parsley as a garnish for some color.

Substitutions: For a different flavor profile, swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream soup alternative or make a homemade slurry with cornstarch and broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious crockpot chicken and gravy meal:

1. Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Season lightly with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Mix the gravy base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, chicken gravy mix, and chicken broth until smooth. Cover the chicken with this mixture, making sure to coat every piece.
3. Add butter for richness: Dot the top with small pieces of butter, if using, to enhance the gravy’s creaminess.
4. Cook the dish: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the chicken: Take the chicken out of the slow cooker, then shred it with two forks and put it back in.Stir to coat the chicken in the gravy.
6. Serve and enjoy: Spoon the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side. Add some fresh parsley as a garnish for some color.

Can You Use Frozen Chicken in Crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in a crockpot for this recipe, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Frozen chicken breasts will release more liquid as they thaw, which can slightly thin the gravy. To counter this, you may need to thicken the gravy (more on that later). For food safety, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. How long to cook chicken and gravy in a slow cooker with frozen chicken? Add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low (7-9 hours total) or 30-60 minutes on high (4-5 hours total). If possible, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for more consistent results and a thicker gravy.

Can You Use Cream of Chicken in Crockpot Chicken?

Absolutely! Cream of chicken soup is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing a creamy, flavorful base for the gravy. It blends seamlessly with the ranch seasoning and gravy mix, creating a rich, comforting sauce. If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a homemade version by combining ½ cup milk (or plant-based milk), ½ cup broth, and 2 tbsp cornstarch, whisked until smooth. This keeps the dish gluten-free or dairy-free as needed. For a twist, try cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

How Long to Cook Chicken and Gravy in Slow Cooker

The cooking time depends on your slow cooker’s setting and whether you’re using fresh or frozen chicken. For fresh chicken breasts, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For frozen chicken, extend the time to 7-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature) before shredding. Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so avoid leaving it on high for too long. If you’re short on time, the high setting delivers tender results in half the time.

How to Thicken Crockpot Chicken Gravy

If your gravy is too thin, don’t worry—there are easy fixes! Here’s how to thicken crockpot chicken gravy:

• Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water. Stir into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving, and cook on high until thickened.
• Flour slurry: Combine 1 tbsp all-purpose flour with 2 tbsp water (use gluten-free flour if needed). Add to the crockpot and cook on high for 15-20 minutes.
• Reduce liquid: If using frozen chicken or extra broth, reduce the initial liquid by ¼ cup to prevent a watery gravy.
• Mash it up: For a rustic texture, mash some of the cooked chicken into the gravy to naturally thicken it.

Stir well after adding any thickener, and let the slow cooker work its magic to achieve that perfect, velvety consistency.

What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to soak up the rich gravy. Here are some ideas for what to serve with crockpot chicken and gravy:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, absorbing the gravy for a comforting bite.
• Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice offers a lighter option and complements the savory sauce.
• Vegetables: Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or glazed carrots add color and nutrition.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy.
• Noodles: Egg noodles or cauliflower noodles (for low-carb diets) make a hearty base.

For a complete meal, serve with a simple side salad and crusty bread to round out the flavors.

Can You Make Chicken and Gravy with Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can make chicken and gravy with rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version! Since rotisserie chicken is already cooked, you’ll reduce the cooking time significantly. Shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the slow cooker with the gravy ingredients. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld. This shortcut is perfect for last-minute meals or using up leftover rotisserie chicken. The result is just as flavorful, with the gravy infusing the shredded chicken with savory goodness.

Is Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Good for Leftovers?

Crockpot chicken and gravy are good for leftovers! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. The chicken stays moist, and the gravy maintains its rich texture when properly stored. You can repurpose leftovers in creative ways, such as:

• Sandwiches: Pile the chicken and gravy onto a bun with a slice of cheese for a quick lunch.
• Casseroles: Mix with cooked pasta and veggies, top with cheese, and bake for a new dish.
• Tacos: Use the shredded chicken as a taco filling with your favorite toppings.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Store Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh and safe. Here’s how to store leftover crockpot chicken and gravy:

• Refrigerate: Let the dish cool to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Place cooled chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Leave some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much.

Tip: Store the chicken and gravy separately from sides like rice or potatoes to maintain their texture.

Nutrition Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also fits into various dietary needs. Here’s the approximate nutrition information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 12g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use an online calculator for precise measurements tailored to your ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. With minimal prep, a handful of ingredients, and a slow cooker, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, pairing it with veggies, or repurposing leftovers into a new dish, this recipe is versatile and foolproof. Plus, it’s adaptable for gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free diets. Try it tonight and enjoy the cozy, home-cooked goodness with minimal effort!

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