Introduction

Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is a timeless comfort-food classic that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Featuring tender, slow-cooked chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, and stress-free meal prep. With just a handful of pantry staples and a reliable slow cooker, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that feels homemade and comforting every time.

What Is Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy?

Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is a simple dish made by gently cooking chicken breasts or thighs in a seasoned gravy base until they become fork-tender. The gravy thickens as it cooks, absorbing the chicken’s juices and creating a smooth, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.

Unlike stovetop versions, the slow cooker method ensures moist chicken and deep flavor without constant monitoring.

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

Requires very little prep time
Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
Produces tender, juicy chicken every time

Ideal for family meals and potlucks
Reheats beautifully for leftovers

It’s a true “set it and forget it” comfort-food solution.

Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs provide lean protein and become exceptionally tender during slow cooking.

Gravy Base

A combination of chicken gravy mix, cream-based soup, or broth forms the rich sauce.

Seasonings

Simple spices enhance the savory profile without overpowering the dish.

Optional Add-Ins

Butter, sour cream, or herbs can be added for extra richness and depth.

Choosing the Best Chicken

Chicken breasts: Lean, mild, and widely used
Chicken thighs: More flavorful and forgiving if cooked longer

Both options work well; thighs are ideal if you prefer richer flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

4–6 quart slow cooker
Measuring cups and spoons

Whisk or spoon
Tongs or forks for shredding

Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 6)

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

2 packets chicken gravy mix
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1½ cups chicken broth or water

½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder

2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Base

In a bowl, whisk together gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, broth, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

Step 2: Add Chicken

Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the gravy mixture over the top. Add butter if using.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Shred or Serve Whole

Use forks to shred chicken for a pulled texture, or leave pieces whole for serving.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

If gravy is too thick, stir in a small amount of warm broth. If too thin, cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Chicken & Gravy

Do not overcook on HIGH
Whisk gravy mix thoroughly to prevent lumps
Add liquid gradually if thinning

Season at the end to taste

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using frozen chicken without adjusting cook time
Skipping liquid in the gravy base

Over-seasoning early
Cooking uncovered for too long

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Ranch Chicken & Gravy

Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix.

Mushroom Chicken & Gravy

Stir in sliced mushrooms during the last hour.

Onion-Forward Version

Add sliced onions or onion soup mix.

Dairy-Free Option

Use broth-based gravy and omit cream soup.

Serving Suggestions

Over mashed potatoes
With rice or egg noodles
On biscuits or toast

Alongside steamed vegetables

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

Make-Ahead

Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken and gravy for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 420

Protein: 38 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time and ensure chicken reaches safe temperature.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Cook uncovered briefly or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy Always Delivers

This dish works because slow, gentle heat transforms simple ingredients into tender chicken and deeply savory gravy—without complicated steps.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy is the definition of reliable comfort food. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and effortless preparation, it’s a recipe you can return to again and again—perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and cozy nights at home.

Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your slow cooker collection.

Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy (Tender, Comforting & Foolproof)

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 2½–3 lbs (1.1–1.4 kg) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in adds flavor!)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (slurry for thickening)
• Optional: ½ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for extra richness

Instructions

Pat chicken dry; season with salt and pepper.

In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Sear chicken 3–4 min per side until golden (not required but boosts flavor). Transfer to slow cooker.
In same skillet, sauté onion 3–4 min until soft. Add garlic; cook 30 sec. Pour in broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in Worcestershire and thyme.
Pour mixture over chicken in slow cooker.

Cover and cook on LOW 6–7 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours, until chicken shreds easily.
Remove chicken; discard skin/bones. Shred meat; return to pot.
Stir in cornstarch slurry. Switch to HIGH; cook 15–20 min uncovered, stirring occasionally, until gravy thickens to desired consistency.

For creamy gravy, stir in heavy cream (if using) in last 5 min.
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles.