This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a cozy dish perfect for busy days. You just toss in chicken, a few seasonings, and let the slow cooker work its magic!
The gravy is rich and tasty, and it pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds. I know mine does! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want a more flavorful option, you can use thighs instead. They stay juicy and add rich flavor to the gravy.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic build a great base flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute them with onion powder and garlic powder, but they won’t be as robust.
Chicken Broth: Using good-quality chicken broth enhances the dish. You can replace it with vegetable broth or water with a chicken bouillon cube for a lighter version.
Onion Soup Mix: This mix gives a solid taste kick! If you don’t have it, a blend of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and a bit of salt can work too.
Cream Soups: Cream of mushroom or chicken soup is key for creaminess. You could use homemade cream sauce if you want to avoid canned options or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
How Do You Make the Gravy Perfectly Thick?
The gravy starts off thin but thickens beautifully with a simple cornstarch slurry. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until it’s smooth.
- Stir in the soup from the slow cooker until everything is well combined.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture back into the slow cooker, stirring as you go to avoid lumps.
- Cook on HIGH for a little longer to activate the thickening power of the cornstarch. Keep an eye on it to reach your desired thickness!
Trust me, these tips will help you make the gravy just the way you like it! Serve it up over your favorite side, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Liquids:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Seasonings:
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Creaminess: 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
- To Thicken: 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then lets the slow cooker do the work! You’ll need to cook it for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. So, set it up and let it simmer away while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Vegetables:
Start by placing the sliced onion and minced garlic right at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will add a delicious base flavor to your chicken and gravy.
2. Add the Chicken:
Layer the chicken breasts over the onions and garlic. Don’t worry about them being perfect—just get them in there!
3. Mix in the Liquids:
Now, pour the chicken broth over the chicken, followed by sprinkling the onion soup mix and black pepper on top. Add the Worcestershire sauce too. If you like mushrooms, toss those in as well!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is nice and tender. You’ll know it’s done when it’s easy to shred with a fork.
5. Prepare the Gravy:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and keep it warm on a plate. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. This is your magic thickening agent!
6. Combine the Cream Soup:
Stir the cream of mushroom or chicken soup into the tasty juices left in the slow cooker until it’s well mixed.
7. Thicken the Gravy:
Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker, stirring continuously to mix everything together and avoid lumps. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15-30 minutes until the gravy thickens up to your liking.
8. Final Touches:
Return the chicken to the slow cooker to warm through, letting it soak up some of that yummy gravy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious chicken and gravy with some freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles for a delightful meal your family will love!
Enjoy your comforting slow cooker chicken and gravy!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just note that you may need to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure they cook thoroughly. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep the gravy nice and creamy!
What Can I Substitute for the Cream Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute for cream of mushroom or chicken soup, you can use a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. Alternatively, a dairy-free cream option or even a vegetable cream soup can work well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor without sacrificing health benefits. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cream soup and replace it with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream to lighten the dish.
