This easy slow cooker chicken and gravy is a comforting meal that cooks all day while you relax. Tender chicken slowly simmers in a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect over rice or mashed potatoes!
I love how simple it is—just throw everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Plus, coming home to a warm meal makes the day so much better! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for tenderness. If you’re looking for a substitute, boneless thighs add a richer flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Condensed Soups: The cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups create a great base for the gravy. If you’re avoiding these, use homemade white sauce or a dairy-free version if needed.
Ranch Dressing Mix: The seasoning mix adds lovely flavors. You can try a homemade blend or Italian seasoning if ranch isn’t available or if you want a different taste.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over salt levels. Vegetable broth works well too for a lighter flavor.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Tender?
To keep your chicken tender in the slow cooker, follow these tips:
- Cook it on low for the best results. It may take longer, but the chicken will stay juicy.
- Avoid lifting the lid while cooking. Steam escapes, which can lead to longer cooking times.
- When shredding, don’t overdo it. Just enough to mix with the gravy is perfect.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker chicken and gravy takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) to cook. Just set it in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer so they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Soup Base:
In a separate bowl, mix together the canned cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dry ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is combined and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour this creamy soup mixture generously over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is completely covered in the sauce for the best flavor.
4. Set the Cooker:
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when done.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once fully cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker using tongs or a fork. Shred the chicken with two forks until it’s in bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir to mix with the gravy.
6. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you like a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker, then cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
7. Serve It Up:
Serve the delicious chicken and gravy over warm, cooked white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness!
Enjoy your comforting, easy slow cooker chicken and gravy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water (in a sealed bag) for a quicker option. Just increase the cooking time slightly if using frozen.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use a homemade white sauce or substitute with an equal amount of cream of celery soup. Dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut cream work well too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen the gravy if it thickens while stored.
Can I Add Veggies to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add chopped carrots, celery, or peas to the slow cooker when you first add the chicken and soup mixture. This will enhance flavors and add a nutritious boost!
