This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a warm and comforting dish. Tender chicken cooks slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy that just makes you want to smile!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a cozy meal! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you have thighs on hand, they can be a flavorful alternative, giving a slightly different texture.
Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add richness. You can substitute them with any other cream soups like cream of celery or even a homemade version using heavy cream if you prefer. Keep an eye on the salt if you’re using lower-sodium options.
Chicken Broth: For extra flavor, feel free to use homemade chicken broth or stock! Vegetable broth works too for a lighter option or if you need it to be vegetarian.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic make the dish aromatic. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work as substitutes, but fresh is always better!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is an excellent way to keep it juicy and tender. Here are some tips:
- Use low heat settings for longer cooking times, as this prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Make sure the chicken is submerged in the gravy, helping to keep moisture locked in.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can release heat and moisture, extending cooking time.
By following these simple techniques, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main 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 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Thickening Ingredients (Optional):
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in your slow cooker. If you want to thicken the gravy, add an extra 30 minutes to let it set.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re arranged evenly so they cook properly.
2. Whip Up the Soup Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until well mixed.
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the mixture.
4. Cook it Up:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, use the high setting for 3-4 hours; if you have time, the low setting for 6-7 hours will yield more tender chicken.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, if you want a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook until the gravy thickens a bit.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and the gravy is ready, serve the chicken with the scrumptious gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy your tasty meal with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before you start the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and place it in the slow cooker insert. Just cover and refrigerate the insert until you’re ready to cook. Make sure to cook it within 24 hours for the best results.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure to warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.
Can I Substitute the Soups?
Yes! If you don’t have cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, you can use other cream soups like cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the flavor of the dish.
