Crockpot Chicken with Gravy

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe delivers a simple and satisfying dinner with tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a comforting meal waiting for you without the fuss. Served over steaming hot rice, this dish feels like a cozy hug on a plate and makes dinner effortless.

I first made this recipe when my schedule was packed, and having dinner ready without much attention quickly made it a household favorite. Now it’s a go-to for weeknights when I want something hearty and fuss-free.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: from 3 to 4 boneless and skinless pieces for tender, lean protein. Choose fresh or thawed for best results
• Unsalted cream of chicken soup: creates a rich, velvety base without overwhelming salt. Look for well-known brands or homemade versions if you prefer
• Two envelopes of dry chicken gravy mix: add concentrated flavor and thickness to the sauce. Select a quality mix for a balanced taste
• Water or chicken broth: optional, used to adjust the sauce consistency and add subtle depth. Using broth can enhance the savory notes
• Hot steamed rice: for serving creates a perfect bed for soaking up all the luscious sauce. Jasmine or basmati rice works nicely and cooks quickly

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. You can season lightly with salt and pepper if you like, but the gravy will season the dish well too. Lining them flat helps even cooking.

Mix the Sauce:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup, dry chicken gravy mix, and the water or chicken broth if using. Mix until smooth and well combined. This mixture will thicken as it cooks.

Combine and Cook:

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, covering them as much as possible. Put the lid on tightly to keep the moisture and flavors locked in.

Slow Cook:

Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for four to six hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the chicken thoroughly and blends all the flavors into a creamy sauce.

Shred the Chicken:

About 10 minutes before serving, use two forks or a spoon to break the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces right in the slow cooker. This releases the juices and distributes the gravy evenly.

Serve:

Scoop hot steamed rice onto plates and spoon generous portions of the chicken and gravy over the top. The rice soaks up the sauce wonderfully, making every bite tasty.

The cream of chicken soup is my secret to making easy dinners feel indulgent. It gives the sauce a smooth texture and rich flavor without extra effort. One family dinner I remember is when we came home on a rainy evening to find this waiting quietly in the slow cooker. The warmth and aroma instantly cheered everyone up.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, heating gently on the stove or microwave so it doesn’t dry out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce using milk and flour. Using turkey or even tofu can swap out the chicken for different protein options. You can also try mushroom gravy mix for a vegetarian twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots for some color and crunch. A simple garden salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the gravy. Leftover chicken and gravy also work great as a topping for baked potatoes.

This recipe makes weeknight dinners effortless while delivering comforting flavors that feel homemade.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to stay moist during slow cooking, enhancing flavor and tenderness.

→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use a homemade béchamel sauce or a combination of cream and broth to mimic the creamy texture and flavor.

→ Is it necessary to shred the chicken before serving?

Shredding helps the chicken absorb more of the sauce, creating a more cohesive, flavorful dish.

→ Can I prepare this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer the chicken and sauce gently on the stove over low heat until tender, stirring occasionally.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken and gravy?

Steamed rice is classic, but mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles also complement this dish nicely.