This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is all about comfort! With tender chicken simmering in a rich, flavorful gravy, it’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Just toss the chicken in the cooker, add some seasoning, and let it work its magic. I love serving it over rice or mashed potatoes—it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you have bone-in chicken, you can use that too; just check that it’s cooked through before shredding.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds richness to your dish. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using low-fat or even homemade cream of chicken soup. For a dairy-free alternative, you could try a creamy coconut milk blend or a vegetable-based cream.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This gives a fun flavor kick! If you don’t have ranch mix, you can make your own using dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can adjust the spices according to your taste.
Brown Gravy Mix: This enhances the flavor of the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using a homemade gravy recipe or a low-sodium version from the store.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and depth. You can replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water in a pinch, though the taste will vary.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is easy, but keeping it juicy is key! Start with placing the chicken at the bottom, as it’ll absorb all the lovely flavors from above. Cook it on low for a slower, more flavorful process; the chicken will come out tender and easy to shred.
- Check the chicken after about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. It should be fully cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. This will keep it moist.
Mix the shredded chicken back into the gravy for maximum flavor, and remember to season it to your liking. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful slow cooker dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and will need 6-7 hours to cook on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, brown gravy mix, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
3. Combine with Chicken:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that each piece is nicely coated. This mixture is what makes the gravy so flavorful!
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. If you have time, cook it on low for 6-7 hours. If you’re in a bit of a rush, the high setting for 3-4 hours will work too. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This helps it absorb all the delicious gravy!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the gravy a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. This step will ensure all the flavors are just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken and gravy hot over your favorite sides like rice or mashed potatoes. If you want to add a fresh touch, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute bone-in chicken thighs or even a whole chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in cuts may take longer. Be sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and a gluten-free brown gravy mix. Just check the labels to ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious meal without the gluten!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Gravy?
Absolutely! For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy mixture before cooking. You might also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different taste. Just remember to taste and adjust as you go!
