As I flipped through old family cookbooks, I stumbled upon a treasured recipe that instantly whisked me back to cozy Sunday dinners: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. The mere thought of tender chicken simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic gravy wraps me in a warm embrace. This delightful slow cooker recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients, while delivering heartwarming comfort food goodness. In just a few minutes of prep, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering scents that invite everyone to the table. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can easily adapt it with seasonal ingredients or personal twists. Are you ready to transform your weeknight meals into something special? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With minimal prep, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy comes together in just a matter of minutes, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work.

Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to tailor your dish with seasonal adjustments, like adding fresh vegetables or herbs, to keep it exciting throughout the year.

Comfort Food for All: This recipe is designed to please everyone at your dinner table, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Irresistible Aroma: The tantalizing scents of garlic and savory gravy are sure to draw your loved ones in, making mealtime a delightful experience.

Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking, you can easily store leftovers for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week. Check out our Crack Chicken Crockpot for another delicious make-ahead option!

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – About 1.5 lbs; the star of the show, providing tender texture as it simmers.

For the Gravy Mixture
• Ranch Dressing Mix – Adds a burst of flavor; swap with homemade ranch if preferred.
• Brown Gravy Mix – Offers a hearty depth; consider using homemade gravy for a fresher taste.
• Chicken Broth – Infuses moisture and flavor; vegetable broth can substitute for a lighter option.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Creates a rich creaminess; a homemade version can enhance freshness.

For Adding Creaminess
• Sour Cream – Brings a velvety richness; Greek yogurt makes a lighter, tangy choice.

Essential Seasonings
• Salt & Pepper – Key seasonings to adjust according to taste and dietary needs.

For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – Optional but adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to your dish.

Dive into this delightful Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe and transform your weeknight dinners into cozy feasts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken And Gravy

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by placing about 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to allow the flavors to coat all sides. This initial step sets the stage for a tender Crockpot Chicken and Gravy that will wow your family during dinner.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, creating a creamy and flavorful gravy base. This mixture is crucial for infusing the chicken with rich flavors as it cooks, so ensure it’s well combined.

Step 3: Combine in Crockpot
Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure all pieces are evenly coated. This helps to lock in moisture while allowing the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors. The inviting aroma will soon start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a comforting meal.

Step 4: Cook
Set your crockpot to low and let the chicken cook for about 6 hours. As it simmers, the chicken will become tender and infuse with the flavor-packed gravy. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken easily shreds apart with a fork, giving a satisfying visual cue of its tender cooked state.

Step 5: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it thoroughly with the gravy to allow it to soak up all the goodness. This step enhances the dish’s overall flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Step 6: Finish Sauce
Stir in a generous dollop of sour cream into the chicken and gravy mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds an extra layer of creaminess to your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy, making it even more indulgent. Mix until everything is well incorporated and heated through.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the hearty chicken and gravy over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or your preferred side. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This crowd-pleasing comfort food is now ready to be enjoyed, turning any meal into a special occasion!

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Sear for Flavor: Before placing the chicken in the crockpot, searing it on the stovetop adds depth of flavor and enhances tenderness.
Watch Gravy Consistency: If your gravy runs too thin, thicken it with a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Thaw First: Always thaw frozen chicken before adding it to the crockpot to ensure even cooking and prevent any safety issues.
Leftover Storage: For perfect leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days to maintain freshness in your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.
Spice It Up: Feel free to customize the heat level by adding cayenne, chili powder, or diced jalapeños, making this dish exciting every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Chicken and Gravy are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and gravy mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup in a bowl, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply place the raw chicken in the crockpot, pour the mixture over it, and cook on low for 6 hours. For the best quality, ensure the chicken is properly thawed before cooking to achieve that tender, flavorful result. With these tips, you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Crockpot Chicken And Gravy Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with this comforting dish by trying out these enticing variations and substitutions.

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a creamy, plant-based option without the dairy.
Herb Infusion: Boost flavor with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage added during cooking for a fragrant, aromatic twist.
Vegetable-Packed: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or green beans during the last hour of cooking for added color, nutrients, and texture.
Low-Carb: For a keto-friendly option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional sides like rice or potatoes.
Spiciness Level: Amp up the heat by incorporating diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for a flavorful kick.
Umami Boost: Substituting some of the chicken broth with mushroom broth will deepen the flavors and add an earthy touch to the gravy.
Leftover Magic: Transform leftover chicken and gravy into a delightful pot pie filling, topped with a flaky crust for a comforting twist.
Seasonal Adjustments: Embrace autumn by adding chopped apples and a hint of cinnamon, creating a deliciously sweet-savory experience; or summer with bright roasted vegetables.

Experimenting with these variations can elevate your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy to new tasty heights! And if you’re searching for more slow cooker inspiration, don’t forget to check out our Bbq Chicken Mac for a fun and flavor-packed dinner option!

What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

As you indulge in the comforting embrace of this dish, consider complementing it with sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety smoothness offers the perfect canvas for the savory gravy, making each bite a delight.
Fluffy Rice: A serving of steamed rice soaks up the delicious gravy, providing a light contrast to the rich chicken. The combination of textures creates an uplifting balance in every mouthful.
Buttery Biscuits: Freshly baked biscuits are perfect for mopping up every last drop of gravy, bringing warmth and heartiness to your meal.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed crisp-tender green beans add a pop of color and fresh flavor, brightening the dish with their crunch. Pairing these vegetables helps create a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the gravy, adding a refreshing zest that wakes up your palate and makes the meal feel alive.
Homemade Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs beautifully with savory chicken and gravy, inviting a touch of Southern charm to your dinner table.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a comforting, sweet finish to your meal. The warm spiced apples and crunchy topping offer a cozy contrast to the savory main course.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh and delicious.

Freezer: Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag, where it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy texture.

Keep Covered: Always keep your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy covered while reheating to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts! They tenderize beautifully during cooking and absorb the rich flavors of the gravy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.

How should I store leftovers from Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Store any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for quick meals throughout the week. If you’re not planning to eat them within that time frame, consider freezing!

Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy? What’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label the container with the date. It will stay delicious in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results when reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently warming it up on the stovetop or microwave.

What should I do if my gravy is too thin?
If you find your gravy has become too runny, don’t fret! You can create a thickening slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce and continue cooking on low until the gravy thickens to your liking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you have allergies, be aware that the ranch dressing mix and cream of chicken soup may contain gluten or dairy. Look for gluten-free or dairy-free versions to suit your dietary needs. Additionally, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option without compromising on creaminess.