If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that practically makes itself while you go about your day, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, flavorful gravy that’s packed with savory ranch seasoning and creamy goodness. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes weeknight dinners or lazy weekends extra special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic that each ingredient brings to the table. From the mild cream of chicken soup that adds creaminess to the ranch seasoning that’s bursting with flavor, every component plays a key role in building the finished dish’s luscious texture and irresistible taste.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main star delivering juicy, tender meat that soaks up all the rich flavors.
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix: Brings a tangy, herby burst that makes this dish taste so special.
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix: Essential for creating that thick, savory gravy everyone will love.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and a silky texture that keeps the chicken moist and luscious.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist while deepening the chicken and gravy flavor without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness that complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a slight kick and balances the creaminess with just a hint of spice.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Melts throughout cooking, enriching the gravy with buttery goodness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Arrange the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the slow cooker. This will be the foundation of your dish, so make sure they’re evenly placed for even cooking and ultimate tenderness.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the chicken. This flavorful seasoning blend ensures each bite packs a punch and creates a rich base for the gravy.
Step 3: Add Cream of Chicken Soup and Broth
Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth gently over the seasoned chicken. Use a spoon or spatula to give the mixture a gentle stir just to blend the gravy mix and seasonings without disturbing the chicken too much.
Step 4: Add Butter on Top
Place a tablespoon of unsalted butter on top. As the dish cooks, this butter will melt and add an incredible velvety richness to the gravy, making it extra luscious.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and cook the chicken on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will become wonderfully tender, soaking up all the savory goodness in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken and Mix
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, shred it using two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy so every piece is coated and flavorful.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this warm, comforting chicken and gravy over your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a truly satisfying meal that everyone will love.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is a fantastic way to add a splash of freshness to this dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving to brighten the plate and add a lovely herbal note that cuts through the richness of the gravy.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a dream to soak up that amazing gravy, or try creamy rice for a slightly different texture. Buttermilk biscuits or even buttered noodles are also fantastic options to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at a family dinner or potluck? Serve this dish in a large rustic casserole dish or on a beautiful wooden platter garnished with fresh herbs. You can even portion it into individual ramekins and top with crispy fried onions for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the gravy’s creamy texture and the chicken’s tenderness. It makes for a quick and delicious next-day meal that feels just as tasty.
Freezing
You can freeze the Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy thickens too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up for the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you an even richer flavor and remain juicy due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they’re fully tender.
Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?
Nope! This recipe is designed for convenience, so adding the chicken directly to the slow cooker without browning still results in tender, flavorful meat thanks to the slow cooking process.
Can I make this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, look for gluten-free versions of the ranch seasoning and chicken gravy mix, and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well. This allows you to enjoy this comforting meal without worry.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you want to skip the canned soup, you can make a quick homemade roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth to create a similar creamy base. This will also allow you to control the ingredients more closely.
Is it okay to cook this on high instead of low?
Yes! Cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours works just fine and is perfect if you’re short on time. Just check the chicken for tenderness before serving to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that’s both effortless and delicious, and this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, it’s a cozy, savory dish that makes any day feel a little more homey. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes (low) or 3 hours 5 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in savory ranch seasoning, creamy chicken soup, and rich gravy mix. Perfect for a hearty family meal served over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) chicken gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Others
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Place chicken in slow cooker: Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, chicken gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the chicken breasts for a flavorful base.
- Add soup and broth: Pour the cream of chicken soup and low-sodium chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. Stir gently to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much.
- Add butter: Place the tablespoon of unsalted butter on top of the chicken mixture to add richness and help create a smooth gravy.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred chicken: Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir it well to mix with the gravy.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For thicker gravy, remove the chicken after cooking and simmer the liquid on the stovetop to reduce it before shredding the chicken back in.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cream of chicken soup.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor by placing them at the bottom of the slow cooker before the chicken.
