This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a comfort food classic! With tender chicken that cooks in a rich, flavorful gravy, it’s perfect for busy days.
The best part? You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you relax. I love serving it over mashed potatoes—so cozy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can also use thighs for extra flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This adds great flavor with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using homemade onion powder and dried herbs instead—just mix equal amounts to keep the taste balanced.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is key for a creamy gravy. You can swap it out for cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce if you want to avoid canned soups.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option. If you’re out, water seasoned with a little salt can also work well. Vegetable broth is a nice alternative for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Gravy is Thick and Smooth?
Making a thick, smooth gravy can be tricky but quite rewarding! The cornstarch is your best friend here. Here’s the easy method to follow:
- Ensure you mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the gravy. This prevents lumps.
- Once added, let the gravy cook on high for 10-15 minutes. Watch it closely; it will thicken nicely!
- If it’s still too thin, you can mix a bit more cornstarch with cold water and repeat until it’s to your liking.
This technique helps you achieve a rich and velvety gravy every time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, and then you let it cook. You’ll want to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. After that, there’s just a little time to thicken the gravy, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly for the best cooking results.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir it all together until it’s well blended and smooth.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken breasts, covering them evenly. Now, it’s time to cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. During this time, the chicken will become tender and flavorful!
4. Thicken the Gravy:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully take the chicken out of the slow cooker and place it on a plate. Keep it warm while you make the gravy thicker. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water together until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the gravy in the slow cooker.
5. Final Touches:
Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your liking. Return the chicken to the slow cooker to coat it with the rich gravy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve your easy slow cooker chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy your delicious meal! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours, or low for around 7-8 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re looking for substitutes, cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce works great! You can also use a dairy-free version of cream soup if you’re dairy-sensitive.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture. You can also use low-sodium broth and omit the dry onion soup mix to control the sodium levels. Adding more veggies like carrots or peas can also boost nutrition!
