Slow Cooker Chicken Gravy

Juicy shredded chicken smothered in a creamy, savory gravy is the sort of comfort meal that satisfies everyone with almost no work. My slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe turns plain chicken breasts into a rich dinner that bubbles away all afternoon, filling your home with the best cooking smells. When life gets hectic, I love knowing dinner is basically hands-off yet still feels homemade and hearty.

The first time I threw this together was during a crazy weekday when I was desperate for an easy meal. My family immediately fell in love with it. Now it is our go-to when anyone wants that cozy, homecooked vibe with zero fuss.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breasts: These become super tender and absorb all the sauce Choose ones that are plump with no yellowing for the best texture
• Cream of chicken soup: This creates the smooth gravy base Go for a low sodium version if possible for better flavor balance
• Chicken gravy mix: This boosts that all day cooked taste Use a quality brand for best results
• Low sodium chicken broth: Helps thin and stretch the gravy flavor Choose broth with the cleanest ingredient list
• Sour cream: Swirled in at the end for creamy tang Use full fat for the richest finish
• Fresh parsley: Sprinkled on top for brightness Fresh flat leaf gives better flavor than curly
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Only add at the end to keep from oversalting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set Your Base:

Lay chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of your slow cooker Each piece needs full contact with the base to cook evenly and soak up all the gravy

Mix Your Gravy Starter:

In a mixing bowl combine cream of chicken soup chicken gravy mix and chicken broth Stir very well until fully smooth No lumps means perfectly creamy gravy in the end

Pour and Forget:

Pour the gravy mix evenly over all the chicken Cover with the lid Set your slow cooker on low for six to seven hours or high for three to four hours allowing the chicken to turn fall apart tender as the flavors meld

Pull Apart Gently:

Once cooking is finished use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot This ensures it soaks up more of the gravy and keeps every bite juicy

Make It Creamier:

Add in the sour cream Stir thoroughly until it disappears into the sauce This final step makes the gravy extra silky and gives a gentle tang

Check Your Flavors:

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper If more seasoning is needed add only a little at a time since soup and gravy base already carry salt

Take a Quick Break:

Let everything rest on warm for five to ten minutes The chicken continues to absorb flavor and the gravy thickens to the ideal texture

Dish It Up:

Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over your favorite side like mashed potatoes rice pasta or thick bread Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color

Pin

When I add it at the end and see it melt into the chicken I always remember my youngest licking the spoon and announcing that this is comfort food heaven My crew asks for this every time we need something soothing

Storage Tips

Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days Add a splash of chicken broth if reheating so the gravy stays silky Reheat gently on stovetop or in the microwave at half power for best texture For longer storage freeze in well sealed containers for up to two months Thaw in the fridge overnight before warming

Ingredient Substitutions

No cream of chicken soup Try cream of mushroom or celery instead Or make a quick homemade base with flour butter chicken broth and milk You can swap boneless chicken thighs for more flavor If you like even more tang greek yogurt can replace sour cream

Serving Suggestions

This is delicious over mashed potatoes or steamed rice Big buttered noodles also work really well Add simple green veggies like roasted broccoli or beans and a crisp salad for a complete meal Warm biscuits or rolls are perfect for mopping up every drip of that gravy

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Cultural Roots of Comfort

Chicken with thick gravy is a classic comfort dish all over the world The creamy texture and savory aromas bring back memories of family dinners and Sunday suppers I grew up with my grandmother making similar recipes and every time I serve this it feels like bringing a piece of those old kitchen traditions to our table

Recipe FAQs

→ Can frozen chicken be used for this dish?

Thawed chicken is best for even cooking, but frozen chicken works if cooked on high for 1 hour before switching to low for 4-5 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

→ What are good substitutes for cream of chicken soup?

Try cream of celery or mushroom soups, or make a quick homemade version by melting butter, whisking in flour, then slowly adding broth and milk until thickened.

→ Is this dish adaptable for a pressure cooker?

Yes, cook all ingredients except sour cream for 12 minutes on high, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then shred chicken and stir in sour cream.

→ How can I achieve a smooth, lump-free gravy?

Mix soup, broth, and gravy mix thoroughly before cooking. If lumps remain afterward, gently blend with an immersion blender to smooth the sauce.

→ What sides complement this chicken and gravy well?

Mashed potatoes or rice are classic choices. Egg noodles, biscuits, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables like carrots and green beans also pair nicely.