Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are slow-cooked to perfection, enveloped in a rich, velvety gravy infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or al dente noodles to soak up the luscious gravy. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or seeking a satisfying meal prep option, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy promises to be a heartwarming favorite that brings everyone to the table.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Directions:

Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and rub with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Stir in the thyme, onion powder, parsley, and rosemary. Cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
Pour the gravy over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Optional: For extra creaminess, stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and mix well with the gravy. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a comforting, home-cooked dish that brings warmth and heartiness to any meal. This dish consists of tender, slow-cooked chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy infused with herbs and spices. It is a perfect recipe for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone craving a delicious and effortless dinner. Using a slow cooker for this dish enhances the flavors, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and the gravy develops deep, rich notes. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy.

The History and Origins of Chicken and Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy have been staple comfort foods for generations. While gravy originated as a simple sauce made from meat drippings, flour, and broth, it has evolved into a versatile component of many dishes. Chicken and gravy dishes are popular in Southern cuisine, where they are often paired with biscuits or mashed potatoes. The slow cooker, invented in the 1940s, revolutionized home cooking by allowing for effortless meal preparation. This method of cooking is perfect for breaking down tough cuts of meat while infusing them with flavors, making it a beloved choice for home cooks looking for easy, yet delicious meals.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Is the Best

Effortless and Time-Saving

This recipe requires minimal prep and allows the slow cooker to do all the work. Simply season the chicken, make the roux-based gravy, and let it cook to perfection over several hours.

Tender, Juicy Chicken

Cooking chicken in a slow cooker ensures that it remains moist and absorbs the flavors of the gravy, resulting in fork-tender meat that melts in your mouth.

Rich, Flavorful Gravy

The combination of butter, flour, and chicken broth creates a smooth, velvety gravy infused with herbs and spices. This flavorful sauce enhances the dish and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

Versatile Meal Option

This dish can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even with bread. It is also an excellent filling for sandwiches or wraps, making it a great meal prep option.

Family-Friendly and Budget-Friendly

Made with affordable ingredients like chicken breasts, broth, and pantry staples, this dish is both cost-effective and loved by the whole family.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

While comfort food is often associated with indulgence, this recipe offers several health benefits:

Lean Protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles.
Low in Processed Ingredients: Unlike store-bought gravies, this homemade version is free from preservatives and artificial additives.
Customizable for Dietary Needs: You can modify this recipe to be gluten-free (using cornstarch instead of flour), dairy-free, or low-carb.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that allows the gravy to soak into creamy mashed potatoes.
Rice: White or brown rice makes a great base for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Egg Noodles: Soft and buttery egg noodles complement the rich gravy.
Biscuits or Bread: Ideal for sopping up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

For a richer version, add ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Gravy

Boost the flavor by adding minced garlic and extra butter to create a deep, garlicky taste.

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Gravy

For a spicier twist, add Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Gravy

Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for an earthy, umami-rich flavor.

Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to make the dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy

Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: While chicken breasts work well, bone-in, skinless chicken thighs will provide even more flavor and tenderness.
Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking butter and flour together creates a thicker, silkier gravy.
Adjust Thickness as Needed: If the gravy is too thin, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) and stir it in during the last 30 minutes.
Season to Taste: If you like bolder flavors, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami depth.
Shred the Chicken for Extra Flavor: Once cooked, shredding the chicken allows it to absorb more of the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and in the freezer for 3 months.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more richness and remain juicy even after long cooking times.

What If I Don’t Have a Slow Cooker?

You can make this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the chicken and gravy in a covered Dutch oven over low heat for 2-3 hours.

How Can I Make It Dairy-Free?

Substitute the butter with olive oil and omit the heavy cream. The gravy will still be deliciously rich.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a stress-free family dinner, a cozy meal on a cold night, or a dish that can be prepped ahead for busy weekdays, this recipe is a perfect choice. By using simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove all day. Serve it with your favorite side, enjoy leftovers throughout the week, and experience why this dish has been a favorite for generations. So, set up your slow cooker, let the magic happen, and enjoy a warm, delicious meal with minimal effort!