chicken and gravy recipe crock pot
The Best chicken and gravy recipe crock pot
Oh, I’ll be honest—there’s something about a good chicken and gravy recipe that just makes everything feel cozy and comforting, like a hug in a bowl. I’ve been making this version for years, and it’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition. My kids—especially my little ones—love it because it’s simple, tender, and always hits the spot when they’re growing up and need something easy but satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration even when it’s just a regular day, whether it’s Sunday dinner or a lazy weekend when we’re all just hanging out at home. The creamy, rich gravy coats the chicken perfectly, and the slow cooker makes it so effortless—you just throw everything in, set it, and walk away, and by the time it’s done, it’s fall-apart tender with just the right amount of flavor.
I also love this recipe because it’s surprisingly healthy for what it is. The chicken is lean, and by using a light broth or low-sodium stock, you keep the sodium down without sacrificing taste. The gravy isn’t heavy with butter and flour—just a little cornstarch and a splash of milk or cream to thicken it up right, so it’s still light on the stomach but still indulgent. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep. I’ll make a big batch on Sunday and freeze portions for when I’m short on time or just need something quick. My husband and kids swear by it, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings, too—people don’t even realize how good it is until they try it. It’s that kind of dish that feels special, but it’s also so easy to make that anyone can pull off. No fancy techniques, just good, old-fashioned comfort food that never fails.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy gravy served over buttery biscuits or mashed potatoes. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices of buttery biscuits
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or corn
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if serving with biscuits. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over chicken breasts.
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2 Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth over them to keep them moist.
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3 Cook on LOW for 5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken, shred with forks, and set aside.
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4 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
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5 Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken. Stir in parsley and Dijon mustard. Cook on LOW for 1 more hour if needed, or serve immediately.
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6 Serve shredded chicken in the slow cooker gravy over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or your choice of vegetables.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Works
This chicken and gravy recipe in the crock pot is always a reliable choice for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to prepare ahead of time while still feeling special when served. It’s hearty and comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a dish that won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding kids or adults, and it tastes even better the next day.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
What is the best way to prepare classic chicken and gravy in a crock pot for a hearty meal?
To make the best chicken and gravy in a crock pot, start by browning chicken thighs or drumsticks in a skillet with butter, salt, and pepper. Once browned, transfer them to the crock pot along with chicken broth, a splash of milk or cream, and a bouillon cube. For extra richness, add a bit of flour to thicken the sauce. Stir in a mix of butter, cornstarch, and a splash of milk, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender. Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks for this recipe?
While chicken thighs and drumsticks are ideal for crock pot chicken and gravy due to their flavor and tenderness, you can use breasts—just adjust the cooking time. Boneless, skinless breasts should cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, as they cook faster. To prevent dryness, add a bit more liquid (like chicken broth or water) and a splash of cream or milk to keep it moist. For extra flavor, marinate the breasts in buttermilk or soy sauce before cooking.
How do I make the gravy extra creamy and rich without using a stovetop?
To achieve ultra-creamy crock pot gravy, start by browning chicken pieces in a skillet, then transfer them to the crock pot. Use a roux method by melting butter in the crock pot (or a small bowl inside the pot) with flour, stirring until golden. Add chicken broth, milk, and a bouillon cube, then let it simmer for 15 minutes before blending with an immersion blender for a smooth texture. For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end.
What are some great sides to serve with crock pot chicken and gravy?
Crock pot chicken and gravy pairs perfectly with classic sides like: – Crusty bread (to soak up the gravy) – Mashed potatoes (creamy and buttery) – Roasted or steamed green beans (light contrast) – Cornbread (sweet and tangy) – Jasmine rice (for a lighter option) – Buttered mac and cheese (comforting combo) – Collard greens (for a Southern twist) – Sweet potato mash (adds natural sweetness)
How do I avoid making the chicken and gravy too thick or too runny?
Avoiding consistency issues is key—here’s how: – For thick gravy: Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in a mix of butter, flour, and milk (or cream) at the end. If it’s still too thin, simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. – For runny gravy: Check the liquid level halfway through cooking. If it’s too low, add a splash of broth or water. If it’s too high, let it reduce slightly before serving. – Prevent dryness: Use enough liquid (at least 1 cup) and avoid overcooking. If using chicken breasts, add a little extra broth or cream to keep it moist. – Adjust with cornstarch or arrowroot: If needed, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, stir into the gravy, and let it thicken for 5 minutes before serving.
