Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender shredded chicken simmered in a rich gravy. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and truly satisfying. With minimal effort, you can create a warm meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. It’s a hearty option that brings everyone to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken broth and cream of chicken soup creates a savory gravy that elevates your meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—there’s something for everyone.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will appreciate this comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for dinner and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, gather the essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Forks (for shredding)
• Cooking spray or butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing you to cook your chicken low and slow for maximum tenderness.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing sauces and seasonings without cluttering your workspace.
• Forks: Essential for shredding the chicken effortlessly once it’s cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. chicken broth
2. cream of chicken soup
3. garlic powder
4. onion powder
5. paprika
6. black pepper
7. salt
8. dried parsley

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. If using, stir in sour cream for added creaminess.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is not only delicious but also versatile in the way you can serve it. Whether you prefer a classic pairing or something a bit different, there are plenty of options to enjoy this hearty meal.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• A traditional choice, serve the creamy chicken and gravy generously over fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting dish.

With Rice

• White or brown rice makes a great base, soaking up the flavorful gravy while providing a hearty meal.

On Egg Noodles

• Cooked egg noodles offer a delightful combination, allowing the gravy to cling beautifully to each noodle.

In a Sandwich

• For a unique twist, shred the chicken and pile it on crusty bread for a tasty sandwich option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair your dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrients and color on your plate.

As a Soup

• If you have leftovers, consider adding more broth and veggies to make a comforting soup for another meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Making the best Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish even further!

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices according to your taste—add more garlic powder or herbs as desired.
• Experiment with Broth: For additional depth, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add diced carrots or celery before cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Control Creaminess: Adjust the amount of sour cream based on how creamy you want your final dish; more will give it a richer texture.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for future meals.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up delicious gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy balance to the rich gravy while adding some tanginess.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad brings additional flavors and textures that pair well with this dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness that complements the savory profile of the chicken.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try cauliflower mash; it’s creamy and delicious!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy even better. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the grease: Not greasing the slow cooker can lead to sticking. Lightly coat the bottom with cooking spray or butter for easy cleanup.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times for juicy, tender meat.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Not shredding properly: Failing to shred the chicken well can leave large chunks. Use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker for a uniform texture.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping parsley or other garnishes misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates your dish visually and taste-wise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure it is fully cooled before freezing for best results.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables.

How do I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a delightful meal that brings comfort to any table. Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your choice of sides or additional herbs. Give it a try and enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish!