Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With tender chicken simmered in a rich gravy, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. The best part? It requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy the savory taste of creamy gravy that envelops tender chicken, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly pairs with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to suit your preference.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, you’ll need just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray or butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes perfectly tender without constant supervision.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker, which enhances flavor integration.
• Whisk: A simple tool that makes mixing sauces effortless, helping to create a smooth gravy consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

For the Gravy Mixture

• 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)

Optional Ingredient for Extra Creaminess

• ½ cup sour cream

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 Gravy 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 Chicken and Gravy

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

Step 5: Cook Chicken

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 and Add Creaminess

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

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer a classic comfort food setup or something a bit more creative, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect base for the rich chicken and gravy. The texture absorbs the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.

Over Rice

• Steamed rice serves as a wonderful canvas for the savory gravy. Try jasmine or basmati rice for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

With Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles add a delightful chewiness and soak up the gravy. This combination creates a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken over fresh spinach or mixed greens. The warmth of the chicken will slightly wilt the greens, creating an appealing contrast.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create wraps filled with creamy chicken and some fresh veggies. This makes for an easy, on-the-go meal that’s packed with flavor.

Topped with Extra Parsley

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. It makes for an appealing presentation when serving.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts or thighs for tender results.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preferences.
• Use Broth Wisely: Select low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while still packing in flavor.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding diced carrots or celery in the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.
• Thicken If Desired: Mix a cornstarch slurry into the gravy after cooking if you prefer a thicker sauce.
• Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance; it reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the chicken with its crunch and acidity.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with almonds add texture and brightness to your meal.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory gravy.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes provides freshness and complements the dish nicely.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and health benefits without overpowering flavors.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory chicken and gravy, creating a balanced plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the gravy can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings to enhance the dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender results.
• Using low-quality broth: Low-quality chicken broth can affect the overall flavor. Use a good-quality broth for rich, delicious gravy.
• Not shredding the chicken enough: Failing to shred the chicken thoroughly can lead to uneven texture in the dish. Shred well for a consistent creamy mixture.
• Neglecting garnish: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley can make your dish look less appealing. Always add a garnish for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warm. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about preparing or storing this dish, check out these FAQs.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on low.

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

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal.

How do I thicken the gravy?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it versatile for various sides. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it differently each time!