Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal that nearly cooks itself, look no further than this easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe. Featuring tender chicken smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to slow cooker meals or just want a dependable family favorite, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a perfect, cozy dinner you’ll make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply throw all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich gravy and tender chicken create a timeless dish everyone will adore.
• Versatile Meal: Works well for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prepping lunches.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find items for a fuss-free cooking experience.
• Great for Beginners: Perfect recipe if you’re just starting with crockpot meals or want guaranteed success.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role, whether it’s building the gravy’s luscious texture, adding savory depth, or ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Use boneless for quicker cooking or bone-in for extra flavor and tenderness.
• Chicken Broth: A key base for the gravy; choose low sodium for balanced seasoning.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creaminess and depth without complicated sauces.
• Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: Essential spices that enhance the savory profile effortlessly.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic but crucial for seasoning and bringing out all flavors.
• Flour or Cornstarch: Helps thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the gravy texture.

Variations for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Feel free to mix up this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe to suit your dietary needs or to keep things fresh week after week. Adjusting ingredients is easy and will make this classic your own.

• Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier meat, or even try turkey for holiday-inspired flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Carrots, peas, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrition and texture.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute cream of mushroom with coconut milk and use a dairy-free thickener.
• Spice It Up: Add paprika, thyme, or rosemary for a herbaceous or smoky twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour and ensure your broth and soup are gluten-free brands.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry and seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. This first step ensures the meat is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken into the crockpot, then pour in the chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir gently to combine the liquids and distribute the seasoning evenly around the chicken.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Slow cooking brings out full flavors and a juicy texture you’ll love.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy

Once the chicken is done, remove it and set aside. Mix butter with flour or cornstarch to form a slurry, then whisk it into the liquid in the crockpot. Turn heat to high and cook until the gravy thickens to a silky consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice or shred the chicken and return it to the thickened gravy. Give it a final stir and serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

• Use Bone-In Chicken: For richer flavor, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts make the gravy more savory.
• Don’t Skip Seasoning: Properly seasoning the chicken before cooking improves the depth of flavor.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: If your broth is too watery, reduce it slightly to yield a thicker gravy.
• Use a Thickener Wisely: Add cornstarch slurry gradually to avoid lumpy gravy.
• Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid opening the crockpot during cooking, so heat stays steady and chicken cooks evenly.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley, thyme sprigs, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper enhance presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creamy gravy beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or steamed rice to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies make excellent, colorful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and gravy inside fluffy biscuits or country-style bread bowls. You can also layer it over baked sweet potatoes for a hearty, wholesome meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making for even tastier next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly. It will take longer to reach safe temperatures, so cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Is cream of mushroom soup necessary?

You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or create your own creamy base, but the mushroom soup adds a distinctive richness that’s hard to replace.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use cornstarch instead of flour and ensure all packaged ingredients like soups or broth are labeled gluten-free.

What side dishes go best with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?

Try mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. These sides help soak up the delicious gravy and balance the meal.

Can I add vegetables directly into the crockpot?

Yes, root vegetables like carrots and potatoes work well but add them early in the cooking process so they have time to soften properly.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a true lifesaver for anyone wanting a dinner that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare. With its tender chicken and rich, silky gravy made from simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy dinner!

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