Best Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a comforting, low-effort crockpot meal that delivers rich flavor and hearty satisfaction. This Best Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly that a simple yet delicious dish made with just a handful of ingredients, perfect for busy families or anyone craving soul-warming comfort food.

Tender chicken breasts simmer slowly in a creamy gravy made with chicken soup, savory gravy mix, and optional broth until fork-tender and infused with flavor. Served over hot steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.

The inspiration behind this recipe is rooted in classic Southern-style chicken and gravy, but thanks to the convenience of the slow cooker, you can enjoy it without spending hours in the kitchen. With only 5 ingredients, this meal is budget-friendly, stress-free, and one you’ll come back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 5 ingredients only – Pantry staples and no complicated prep.
• Dump-and-go convenience – Just layer, stir, and let the crockpot do the work.
• Family-friendly comfort food – Perfect over rice, potatoes, or bread.
• Meal-prep ready – Stores and reheats beautifully for leftovers.
• Rich, savory flavor – Creamy chicken gravy with minimal effort.

FOR MORE RECIPES:

• Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
• Shrimp Caesar Salad
• Cheesy French Onion Meatballs
• Creamy Rotel Pasta & Ground Beef
• Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni
• Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4–6 people and uses easy-to-find ingredients.

Main Ingredients

• 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – Lean, tender protein that becomes incredibly juicy in the crockpot.
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides creaminess and depth; unsalted allows you to control seasoning.
• 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes of chicken gravy mix – The shortcut to rich, savory flavor.
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth (optional) – Helps thin the gravy slightly if you prefer a looser texture.

For Serving

• Hot steamed rice – The perfect base to soak up the luscious gravy. Alternatively, try mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or biscuits.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl and whisk (for dissolving gravy mix, if desired)
• Tongs or forks for shredding chicken
• Serving spoon and ladle

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Crockpot

• Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

2. Make the Gravy Base

• In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, gravy mixes, and water or broth (if using).
• This ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.

3. Add the Chicken

• Place chicken breasts into the crockpot in an even layer.
• Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are fully coated.

4. Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).

5. Shred & Stir

• Remove chicken and shred it with two forks, then return it to the crockpot and stir into the gravy.
• Alternatively, leave breasts whole for serving if you prefer.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Spoon chicken and gravy over hot steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
• Garnish with parsley for freshness if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Richer flavor: Use chicken broth instead of water.
• Add mushrooms: Stir in a can of mushrooms or fresh sautéed mushrooms.
• Creamier texture: Add 2–3 tablespoons of sour cream at the end.
• More savory depth: Stir in a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
• Spicy version: Add cayenne, paprika, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Different protein: Works with boneless thighs for juicier results.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is savory, creamy, and comforting with a silky gravy that clings beautifully to rice or potatoes. The chicken becomes tender enough to shred, soaking up all the flavors.

Drink Pairings

• Wine: A light Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Non-alcoholic: Sweet iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Side Dish Pairings

• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Buttery dinner rolls or biscuits
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette

Nutritional Overview (per serving, 6 servings, over rice)

• Calories: ~310
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ahead: Mix gravy sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
• Freezer prep: Place raw chicken and gravy mix into a freezer bag; thaw overnight and dump into crockpot.
• Reheating: Microwave gently or reheat in a saucepan with a splash of broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but add 1 extra hour of cooking time and ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.

2. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough and extend cooking by 30–45 minutes.

3. Can I make this without gravy mix?
Yes, use homemade gravy seasoning or a roux-based chicken gravy.

4. Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely—boneless, skinless thighs add extra richness.

5. How do I thicken the gravy?
If it’s too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Task	Time
Prep	Mix gravy and prep chicken	5 min
Cook	Crockpot (low or high)	3–7 hrs
Finish	Shred chicken & stir gravy	5 min
Total	Hands-on + cook time	~3–7 hrs

Serving Suggestions

• Family-style over a bed of fluffy rice.
• On toasted sandwich rolls for a chicken-and-gravy sandwich.
• In a bowl with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a “comfort bowl.”

Recipe Variations

• Chicken & Gravy with Biscuits – Serve over warm buttermilk biscuits.
• Loaded Chicken Gravy – Stir in cooked bacon and cheddar cheese.
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken – Add mushrooms and a splash of cream for extra richness.

Ingredient Spotlight: Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. For best results:

• Use fresh or fully thawed chicken.
• Trim excess fat for a leaner texture.
• Cook low and slow to avoid drying out.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcook—chicken breasts dry out if left too long; check at the lower end of cook time.
• Use unsalted soup and broth for better control of saltiness.
• Shred chicken directly in the crockpot for less mess.
• For extra depth, sear chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and gravy in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving, with rice)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
310	28g	12g	15g	1g

Dietary Notes:

• Gluten-free adaptable (use GF gravy mix).
• High-protein, family-friendly.
• Nut-free.

Conclusion

This Best Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is the definition of comfort food made easy. With just five ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dinner the whole family will love. Serve it over rice, potatoes, or noodles, and you’ll see why it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.

It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and hands-off the kind of meal that makes weeknights easier and tastier.