Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory gravy. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With minimal prep time and the delicious aroma filling your home, it’s an easy choice for any occasion. The standout feature of this dish is its ability to transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream of chicken soup and gravy mix creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles—this dish adapts to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hearty flavors, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Leftover Friendly: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Two forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken without constant monitoring.
• Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly, making sure your gravy mix is lump-free.

Ingredients

• 2½ pounds boneless (skinless chicken breasts, thawed if frozen)
• 10.25 ounces cream of chicken soup (one standard can)
• 1.74 ounces chicken gravy mix (two envelopes)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Cooked rice for serving
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Mix

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. cream of chicken soup
2. chicken gravy mix
3. chicken broth

Make sure the mixture is smooth before proceeding.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pour the gravy mixture over the arranged chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for about 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After cooking, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. This allows it to soak up all that delicious gravy.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Season

Stir in sour cream. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the flavorful chicken and gravy over cooked rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. This dish is not only comforting but also versatile, making it a great option for family meals or gatherings.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful gravy perfectly.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent comfort food experience. The potatoes complement the rich gravy beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use the shredded chicken and gravy as a filling for tacos. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and avocado for a tasty twist.

On Bread

• Spoon the chicken and gravy onto slices of crusty bread to create an open-faced sandwich. This is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

As a Casserole

• Mix the chicken and gravy with cooked pasta or vegetables, top with cheese, and bake for a delicious casserole.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that adds color and nutrients to your plate.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

To make your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Selecting fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium broth and soup to control salt levels without sacrificing taste.
• Don’t Skip the Sour Cream: Adding sour cream at the end gives the dish a creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances the richness of the gravy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
• Cook on Low Heat: Cooking on low allows the chicken to become tender while absorbing all those delicious flavors from the gravy mix.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly to preserve its crunch.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots contrast nicely with savory gravy; toss with olive oil before roasting.
3. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy; bake until golden brown for an irresistible crunch.
4. Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness; consider mixed greens with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side; grill or boil until tender for maximum flavor.
6. Baked Beans: Their sweetness complements savory flavors well; serve warm alongside your main dish.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides texture; mix cabbage with carrots in a tangy dressing.
8. Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa can add protein and fiber; mix in diced vegetables for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a simple yet delicious dish, but some common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are the mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Frozen Chicken: Always use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. Frozen chicken can lead to uneven texture and longer cooking times.
• Not Whisking the Gravy Mix: Failing to mix the cream of chicken soup, gravy mix, and broth properly can result in lumps. Ensure everything is blended smoothly for a creamy sauce.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking the chicken for too long or too short can impact its tenderness. Stick to about 4 hours on low for optimal results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season the dish may leave it bland. Taste before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
• Serving Without Garnish: Skipping the fresh parsley garnish can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and enhances presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy:

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking or after shredding the chicken.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding carrots or potatoes during cooking can enhance nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles, making it versatile for different meals.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is an easy recipe that delivers comfort food at its best. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, allowing you to customize it with your favorite sides or veggies. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a staple!