This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish, perfect for busy days. Just toss chicken, gravy mix, and your favorite veggies into the slow cooker for a delicious meal!
You won’t believe how simple this is! I love coming home to the smell of tender chicken and yummy gravy, ready to spoon over rice or mashed potatoes. It’s pure comfort food joy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here for their tender texture. If you prefer darker meat, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They’ll add more flavor and stay moist during cooking.
Gravy Mix: A packet of brown gravy mix adds convenience and flavor. If you prefer homemade, you can use a mix of beef or chicken broth with some seasonings instead. Just keep in mind the taste might differ slightly!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic brighten the flavor. You can swap the onion for shallots for a milder taste or use onion powder if you’re in a pinch. Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic if needed.
Mushrooms: These are optional but add a nice earthy flavor. If you don’t have mushrooms, feel free to omit them or substitute with diced bell peppers or celery for added veggies.
How Do I Achieve Tender Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
The key to perfectly tender chicken is to let it cook low and slow. Here’s how:
- Start by placing your chicken breast at the bottom of the slow cooker. It cooks in its own juices this way.
- Layer in the onions and garlic — their flavors will permeate the chicken as they cook.
- Set the cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to keep the heat in.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
For added richness, mixing cornstarch with water about 30 minutes before serving thickens up the gravy perfectly!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) of brown gravy mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker gravy)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is super simple! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep work, and then the slow cooker does the rest. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for a day of relaxing while dinner is cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This way, they will soak up all the delicious flavors!
2. Add Flavorful Veggies
Next, add the thinly sliced onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms (if using) right on top of the chicken. These will make your dish super tasty!
3. Mix Together the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and brown gravy mix. Make sure it’s well combined and smooth, then pour it right over the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker.
4. Season It Up
Sprinkle the dried thyme, parsley, and a little salt and pepper over the top. This will add even more flavor to your dish!
5. Set and Forget
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and fully cooked through!
6. Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and recover, cooking until the gravy thickens up nicely.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked, serve the delicious chicken with gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite noodles. Your meal is ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your warm, hearty slow cooker chicken and gravy! It’s a simple and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for the Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will remain juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the pieces are particularly large, they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I Don’t Have Brown Gravy Mix?
No problem! You can create a homemade version using a combination of beef or chicken broth, a bit of soy sauce, and seasonings like onion powder and black pepper. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it needs moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, peas, or even diced potatoes. Just keep in mind that harder vegetables like carrots may need slightly longer to cook through.
