For a comforting, no-fuss dinner, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the perfect choice. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich, creamy gravy that’s full of flavor and takes minimal effort to prepare. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can have a delicious meal ready with little to no hands-on time. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 packets of chicken gravy mix (0.87 ounces each)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 can chicken broth (14.5 ounces)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions: How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
1. Season the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken.
2. Prepare the Gravy Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Add Chicken to the Crockpot
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring that the chicken is fully covered.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook the chicken on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Shred or Serve Whole
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, you can either serve the chicken breasts whole or shred them into the gravy using two forks for a more rustic presentation.
6. Serve
- Serve the chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
- Dijon Mustard: While optional, adding Dijon mustard gives the gravy a subtle tang and depth of flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Keto-Friendly Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly:
- Gravy Mix: Look for a low-carb or keto-approved gravy mix.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Use a keto-friendly cream of chicken soup or make your own with heavy cream and chicken broth thickened with xanthan gum.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free variation:
- Gravy Mix: Use a gluten-free gravy mix.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Opt for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using gluten-free ingredients.
Add Vegetables
For a heartier meal, add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the crockpot along with the chicken. They’ll cook alongside the chicken and soak up the delicious gravy.
Spicy Chicken and Gravy
If you prefer a bit of heat:
- Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy mixture.
- Drizzle with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a saucepan over low heat.
Q4: What sides go well with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even biscuits. Add a green vegetable like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
An Easy, Flavorful Comfort Dish
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something warm and comforting. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish delivers tender chicken in a rich, flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Plus, with easy customization options, you can tailor it to your family’s preferences. Try this recipe for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner!
