Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. With tender chicken simmered in a rich gravy, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a busy weeknight, this recipe offers warmth and satisfaction with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy soup creates a savory gravy that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making it suitable for various palates.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead for busy days; simply reheat and serve!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow-cooking the chicken, allowing it to become tender and flavorful.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before pouring them over the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps ensure a smooth mixture without lumps in your gravy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

For the Gravy

• 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)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Place the Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Put the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Ensure they are spread out evenly.

Step 3: Mix the 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 Everything

Pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred easily.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. If you choose to add sour cream for extra creaminess, stir it in now.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the rich gravy, creating a comforting combination that is hard to resist.

With Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles provide a delightful chewiness and soak up the sauce, enhancing each bite with flavor.

On Rice

• Serving this dish over rice makes for an easy and filling meal; the grains soak up all the delicious gravy.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing with steamed vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the richness of the gravy.

In a Sandwich

• Use leftover chicken and gravy in a sandwich for a hearty lunch option. Add lettuce or sliced tomatoes for freshness.

As a Casserole Layer

• Incorporate this dish into a casserole by layering with cooked pasta and cheese, then baking until bubbly for a new twist.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

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

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness and flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, toss in chopped carrots or celery at the beginning of cooking.
• Thicken Gravy: If you prefer thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s presentation when served.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Complementing your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy with the right sides can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that absorbs all the delicious gravy.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every bit of sauce; its buttery flavor complements the dish well.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy addition that brightens your plate while providing crunch and nutrients.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add depth and a pop of color alongside your main dish.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs gives an aromatic base that pairs nicely with chicken and gravy.
6. Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw balances out the richness of the creamy chicken, offering a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland gravy. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too much chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Not properly shredding the chicken: Failing to shred the chicken well can result in uneven texture. Use two forks to shred thoroughly while it’s still hot.
• Ignoring cook times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken, while low for too short might leave it tough. Follow the recommended cook times closely.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or broth may impact cooking time. Let them come to room temperature for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker. Just be aware that it may increase cooking time by an hour or so.

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

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and reducing the amount of sour cream or omitting it altogether.

Can I add vegetables to Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?

Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans can be added during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is not just a comforting dish; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different seasonings or vegetables based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try!