This easy slow cooker chicken and gravy is perfect for busy days! Just toss in some chicken with a tasty gravy mix and let it cook until tender. So simple and satisfying!
I love that I can throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it. When dinner time hits, my house smells amazing—and I can’t wait to dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even bone-in pieces—just note that cooking times may vary.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds rich flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute with cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. Dairy-free alternatives are also available.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Essential for adding moisture and taste. If you’re avoiding cream soups, consider using chicken broth with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken instead.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This brings in a lot of flavor! If you don’t have it on hand, try mixing a tablespoon of onion powder with a bit of dried parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt to mimic the flavor.
Chicken Broth: Helps create a flavorful sauce. You can swap it out for vegetable broth if you’re keeping it vegetarian or use water for a lighter flavor.
How Do I Get a Nice Thick Gravy?
Creating a thick and creamy gravy is really simple! Near the end of cooking, if you feel the gravy is a little thin, make a cornstarch slurry. Here’s how:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving.
- Cook on high to allow the gravy to thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Make sure to check the consistency; you can always add more cornstarch if needed!
This technique is a lifesaver for making smooth, lump-free gravy that’s perfect for spooning over your chicken and sides!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker gravy)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thicker gravy)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll let it cook in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day—you can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. It’s okay if they’re a bit crowded; they’ll shrink down as they cook.
2. Mix the Soups and Spices:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, dry onion soup mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is fully covered. This helps keep it moist and flavorful as it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, if you’d like a thicker gravy, mix together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and cook on high for the remaining time until the sauce thickens beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken with the gravy spooned over it. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. This dish is fantastic with mashed potatoes, rice, or even steamed vegetables. It’s a comforting meal that’s ready to enjoy!
This recipe is a simple, hands-off way to get comforting chicken and gravy that’s perfect for any day of the week!
FAQs for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just remember to cook it on the high setting for about 4-5 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. No need to thaw beforehand, but ensure it’s fully cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Soups?
If you prefer not to use cream soups, you can replace them with homemade white sauce or a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth. You can also use a thickened vegetable broth for a lighter option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water to maintain moisture if needed.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low on the stove.
