I remember the first time I made chicken and gravy for a potluck. It was a complete disaster! The gravy was lumpy, the chicken was dry, and I nearly cried. But I was determined to master this classic comfort food. That’s why I’m so excited to share with you my perfected recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, a dish that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a total breeze to make. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy you’ll ever make! This is going to become a weeknight staple, I promise!
Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE This Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy
Okay, friend, let’s get real. We’re all busy. We all crave those comforting, home-cooked meals, but sometimes the thought of spending hours in the kitchen just isn’t appealing. That’s where this recipe comes in to save the day! Here’s why you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy:
- Effortless Prep: Seriously, it takes about 10 minutes to throw everything into the slow cooker. You can even prep it the night before!
- Tender, Juicy Chicken: The slow cooker works its magic, transforming ordinary chicken into incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Rich, Creamy Gravy: No more lumpy gravy disasters! I’ve got a foolproof method for creating the most luscious, flavorful gravy you’ve ever tasted.
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Come home to a warm, comforting meal that’s ready to eat. No slaving over the stove required!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This is a dish that everyone loves, from picky kids to discerning adults. It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
- Versatile: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or even biscuits. The possibilities are endless!
What You’ll Need: The Ingredient Rundown
Let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t worry, you probably have most of these in your pantry already. We’re keeping it simple and delicious.
- Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they’re lean and readily available. But boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work beautifully and will give you an even richer flavor. About 2-3 pounds is perfect.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret ingredient that creates the creamy base for our gravy. Don’t knock it ’til you try it! I promise, it’s delicious. You can use the regular kind or the reduced-sodium version.
- Cream Cheese: This adds richness, tang, and extra creaminess to the gravy. I use regular cream cheese, but you can also use the reduced-fat variety if you prefer. Make sure it’s softened before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Chicken Broth: This provides the liquid needed for slow cooking and adds depth of flavor to the gravy. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Onion Soup Mix: Another flavor booster! This adds a savory, umami flavor that really elevates the dish.
- Garlic Powder: Because everything is better with garlic!
- Onion Powder: Because we’re doubling down on the flavor!
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!
- Optional: A bay leaf (for extra flavor), fresh parsley (for garnish), and a dollop of sour cream (for added richness at the end).
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, my friend, let’s dive into the fun part! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy in no time.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
First, lightly season your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be shy with the seasonings! This is your chance to build flavor from the very beginning.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and onion soup mix. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. I like to shred it right in a bowl.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Gravy
This is where the magic happens! Add the softened cream cheese to the slow cooker. Whisk it in until it’s completely melted and smooth. If you want an even smoother gravy, you can use an immersion blender to blend the gravy right in the slow cooker (just be careful not to scratch the bottom of the pot!). Alternatively, you can transfer the gravy to a regular blender and blend until smooth. This step is optional, but it creates a super silky texture. Then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the creamy gravy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. A dollop of sour cream adds a touch of extra richness and tang. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for the BEST Slow Cooker Chicken & Gravy
Okay, my friend, I want you to absolutely nail this recipe. Here are some of my top tips and tricks for creating the most amazing Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy you’ve ever tasted:
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry and stringy, even in a slow cooker. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. The chicken should be easily shredded with a fork.
- Adjust the Gravy: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by whisking together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stirring it into the gravy. Cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Add Vegetables: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Add chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes to the slow cooker along with the chicken. They’ll cook right along with the chicken and add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
- Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook all day, or you can cook it the day before and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. The flavors actually deepen as it sits!
- Leftovers are Amazing: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), they’re delicious reheated for lunch or dinner. You can also use them to make chicken pot pie, chicken sandwiches, or chicken quesadillas.
Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Chicken & Gravy
This Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: This is the classic pairing for a reason! Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
- Rice: Fluffy rice is another great option for serving with chicken and gravy. I especially love using brown rice for a healthier twist.
- Noodles: Egg noodles, pasta shells, or even wide noodles are all delicious with this dish.
- Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up the gravy and creating a truly comforting meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Round out your meal with some steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and gravy.
Variations: Let’s Get Creative!
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with different variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Mushroom Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken. They’ll add a savory, earthy flavor to the dish.
- Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the slow cooker for a more aromatic dish.
- Cajun Chicken: Add a tablespoon or two of Cajun seasoning to the chicken for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken: Use BBQ sauce instead of cream of chicken soup for a smoky, tangy twist.
- Add Some Heat: Stir in a can of diced green chilies for a zesty, flavorful kick.
Other Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love this Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, you might also enjoy these other delicious recipes:
Craving a different chicken dish? You’ll adore my BUTTER CHICKEN. It’s bursting with flavor!
And if you’re looking for another easy slow cooker meal, be sure to check out my SLOW COOKER LEMON CHICKEN. It’s incredibly flavorful and requires minimal effort.
If you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, try my Instant Pot Chuck Roast with Gravy. It’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfect for a chilly evening.
For a delicious pasta dish, you should try HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA. It’s the perfect comfort food.
If you love casseroles, check out my Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole or my Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
There you have it, my friend! My foolproof recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy. I know you can do it! This recipe is so simple and straightforward, even a beginner cook can achieve amazing results. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Add your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or spices to create a dish that’s perfect for your taste buds. Most importantly, have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating a delicious, comforting meal for yourself and your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this slow cooker recipe?
Yes, you can! While the recipe suggests boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean nature, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and will give you an even richer flavor.
How do I prevent the gravy from being too thick or too thin?
If the gravy is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the gravy. Cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
How long should I cook the chicken on low versus high in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
What are some serving suggestions for this slow cooker chicken and gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Ultimate Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and onion soup mix.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add a bay leaf, if desired.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is easily shredded with a fork.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the slow cooker.
- Whisk the cream cheese into the gravy until it is completely melted and smooth. For an even smoother gravy, use an immersion blender or transfer the gravy to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful not to scratch the slow cooker.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the creamy gravy.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
