Welcome to a culinary journey that celebrates simplicity, comfort, and flavor: Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy. This beloved dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming experience, a staple that has graced family dinner tables for generations. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy gravy, all effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker. It’s the kind of meal that takes the stress out of weeknight cooking while delivering an unbeatable taste that brings everyone together.
For over three decades, this slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe has been a personal favorite, a reliable go-to when inspiration for dinner wanes. Its magic lies in its minimal effort and maximum reward. You simply combine a few basic ingredients in your Crock Pot, set it, and let the slow cooker work its wonders. The result? A deeply satisfying meal that consistently earns rave reviews from the entire family. It stands proudly among other cherished slow cooker delights, such as our famous Crock Pot Pork Chops and Gravy, as a testament to delicious, no-fuss home cooking.
I made it exactly as written and delicious! I served it over mashed potatoes and we loved it! It is true comfort food and was perfect for a chilly gray day. I am adding this to the rotation. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful recipes!
– Joy
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
This Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, designed to simplify your life without compromising on flavor. Here’s why it will quickly become a cherished part of your meal rotation:
- Effortless Preparation: This is truly a “dump and go” recipe. With minimal prep time, you can have dinner simmering while you tackle other tasks or simply relax. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even Sunday dinners when you want hearty food without the fuss.
- Incredible Flavor & Texture: The slow cooking process transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with savory goodness. The chicken breasts become incredibly tender and moist, practically falling apart with a fork, while the gravy develops a rich, velvety texture that coats every bite.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Picky eaters often rejoice when this dish hits the table. The comforting flavors and familiar ingredients make it a universally loved meal, ensuring clean plates and happy faces.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or wide egg noodles, this chicken and gravy adapts beautifully. It’s a canvas for your favorite carb sides, making it easy to change things up each time you serve it.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet. Chicken breasts, canned soup, and gravy mix are kitchen staples that won’t break the bank.
- Customizable: While perfect as is, this recipe is also wonderfully forgiving and open to customization. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! Craving a different spice profile? Experiment away!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
As a seasoned slow cooker enthusiast, I often get asked about tips, tricks, and variations for this classic dish. Here are some of the most common questions and my best advice to ensure your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy turns out perfectly every time.
What are the Best Sides to Serve with This Dish?
This is a dish that truly shines when paired with the right accompaniment. My absolute favorite way to serve Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is over a bed of steamy white rice, allowing every grain to soak up that luscious gravy. However, it’s also absolutely divine with our creamy Million Dollar Mashed Potatoes, offering a classic comfort food experience. For a touch of sweetness, consider Honey Glazed Sweet Potatoes, or if you’re a biscuit lover, our Butter Swim Biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy. For a truly unique and delicious twist, one reader shared that they served it over thick, fluffy waffles, transforming it into a savory “Chicken and Waffles” meal – an absolutely brilliant idea!
Can I Substitute Sour Cream if I Don’t Like It?
Sour cream is an unsung hero in this recipe, adding a wonderful tang and a luxurious creaminess that elevates the gravy. I highly recommend including it for the best results. However, if sour cream isn’t to your liking, you have a couple of excellent alternatives. Thick, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a direct substitute, offering a similar tang and creaminess. Softened cream cheese is another fantastic option for a richer, milder flavor. You can also use heavy cream, but do keep in mind that heavy cream is thinner than sour cream, so your gravy might not be quite as thick as desired. Rest assured, though, the flavor will still be amazing!
Are There Any Other Ingredients I Can Add to Enhance the Flavor?
This recipe is designed to be simple and delicious, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. If you’re looking to add extra layers of flavor or nutrition, consider tossing in some frozen mixed vegetables during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal. Sliced mushrooms or crispy bacon pieces would also make fantastic additions, bringing an earthy or smoky depth to the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment; this is a very forgiving recipe that welcomes your creative touches!
Is It Possible to Cook Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy on High Heat?
While technically possible, I generally recommend cooking the chicken on low for a longer duration. The “low and slow” method is key to achieving incredibly tender, succulent chicken that practically shreds itself. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and prevents the chicken from drying out. However, if time is of the essence, you can cook it on high for approximately 3-4 hours. Just monitor the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Can I Double This Recipe for a Larger Crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up wonderfully, provided your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Ensure there’s enough space for all the ingredients to cook evenly without overflowing. Doubling the ingredients will yield a generous portion, perfect for larger families, entertaining guests, or ensuring you have plenty of delicious leftovers.
What if I Want to Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Many readers have successfully used frozen chicken breasts in this recipe, and it’s certainly a viable option. However, there are a couple of points to consider. First, always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption. Frozen chicken often releases more liquid during cooking, which might result in a slightly thinner gravy. If your gravy appears too watery, simply whisk together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the Crock Pot, turn the heat to high, and cook for another 15-30 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Using Different Cooking Methods?
While this recipe is specifically designed for the Crock Pot, I understand the desire for versatility. I haven’t personally tested alternative methods like Instant Pot or oven cooking, but I’ve received feedback from adventurous readers. One reader successfully adapted it for the stovetop, searing the chicken first over medium-high heat before adding the gravy ingredients. They reported moist, tender chicken and a perfectly cooked gravy without burning. For an Instant Pot, a reader mentioned a cooking time of just 10 minutes, but I can’t verify this or provide specific instructions without personal testing. If attempting the Instant Pot, I would suggest adding a small amount of extra water to help it come to pressure. If you try it in the oven, please share your experience!
How Should I Store Leftovers and Can I Freeze Them?
Leftovers of Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy are a treat! Transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Be aware that the texture of the gravy might change slightly after freezing and thawing, potentially becoming a bit thinner or separating. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to restore consistency.
Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious Meal
Crafting this comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the incredible flavor and creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Chicken Gravy Mix: This is the backbone of our rich gravy. You can opt for a low-sodium or no-sodium version to better control the overall salt content, as other ingredients also contain sodium. While I haven’t personally tested it, some readers have successfully used canned gravy as a substitute, but be mindful of the salt levels when making such changes.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: A staple in many comfort food recipes, a can of cream of chicken soup provides a foundational creamy base. For those who prefer a homemade touch, our Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is an excellent alternative. If you’re in a pinch and only have Cream of Mushroom Soup, it can certainly be used, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Water: Simple water helps thin the gravy to the perfect consistency. For added depth of flavor without extra sodium, consider using no-sodium chicken stock or chicken broth. Given the existing salt in the gravy mix and soup, a low-sodium liquid is highly recommended to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are ideal for their lean protein content and quick cooking time. However, this recipe is highly versatile; boneless chicken thighs can be used for a richer, more succulent result, or chicken tenderloins for an even faster cook time.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Remember that both the gravy mix and cream of chicken soup contribute to the dish’s saltiness, so season the chicken with a light hand, about a teaspoon of salt should suffice. Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends like lemon pepper, blackened chicken seasoning, or Cajun seasoning for a delightful twist.
- Sour Cream: As mentioned, sour cream is crucial for that signature creamy tang and luxurious texture. If you need a substitute, plain Greek yogurt offers a similar profile, or a touch of heavy cream can be used for richness, though it may result in a slightly thinner gravy.
Crafting Your Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy: Step-by-Step
Preparing this family-favorite meal is incredibly straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying dish:
Begin by preparing your chicken. Lightly season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, the gravy mix and cream of chicken soup already contain salt, so a modest amount (around one teaspoon total) is usually sufficient for seasoning the chicken itself.
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken gravy packets, the can of cream of chicken soup, and water. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is mostly smooth and well combined, forming the rich base of your gravy.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the gravy mixture in the slow cooker. Ensure each piece of chicken is adequately covered by the gravy to allow it to absorb all the wonderful flavors during cooking. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on the LOW setting for approximately 6-8 hours. The low and slow method is key to achieving perfectly tender and flavorful chicken that’s easy to shred.
Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is fully cooked and fork-tender, use a fork to easily break the chicken apart into desired chunks or shred it directly within the Crock Pot. Stir in the sour cream until it is fully incorporated, adding a delightful creaminess and a subtle tang to the gravy.
Serve your warm, comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy over your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. Garnish with fresh, sliced green onions if desired for a touch of color and mild onion flavor. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!
Craving More Comforting Recipes?
If you loved this easy and delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of slow cooker and comforting recipes is designed to bring warmth and flavor to your table with minimal fuss. Explore some of our other family favorites:
- Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy For Two
- Crock Pot Cubed Steak and Gravy
- Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
- Crock Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
- Crock Pot Mississippi Country Style Ribs
- Crock Pot Shredded Nashville Hot Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
- Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Crock Pot Angel Chicken
- Crock Pot Lasagna
- 10 Crock Pot Mississippi Recipes
- Chicken Fried Chicken
- Country Fried Pork Chops and Gravy
- 30 Chicken Breast Recipes
Originally published: May 2014
Updated photos & republished: September 2024
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
This recipe for Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy is a family favorite. Chicken, gravy mix, cream of chicken, sour cream, and seasoning combine for a deliciously easy meal.
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Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Garlic powder, salt, black pepper (to taste)
- 2 packets chicken gravy mix
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup sour cream
- Sliced green onions (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Season both sides of 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, black pepper.
- In your slow cooker, whisk together 2 packets chicken gravy mix, 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup and 2 cups water until smooth.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts. Be sure to get them covered in gravy.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours.
- Once cooked, break chicken up into chunks using a fork.
- Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes and top with sliced green onions (optional).
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Notes
- Please refer to the “Essential Ingredients” and “Frequently Asked Questions” sections above for substitution ideas and answers to common inquiries.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 12g
| Protein: 26g
| Fat: 18g
| Sodium: 1203mg
| Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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