Looking for a comforting, hands-off meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a hearty, savory dish that’s perfect for busy days or cozy dinners!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Gravy:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, milk, flour, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and combined.
Pour Over the Chicken:
- Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well covered with the gravy.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the gravy in the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6-7 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (1/4 of the recipe per serving)
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like carrots or peas to the slow cooker for a complete meal in one pot.
- Creamy Gravy: For extra creamy gravy, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with additional herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will need to cook for the full 7 hours on low. - Can I make this recipe without flour?
Yes, you can omit the flour, but the gravy will be thinner. You can thicken it with cornstarch as noted in the recipe. - Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor. - What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix?
You can use Italian seasoning or a combination of dried herbs like dill and parsley as a substitute. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. - How can I make the gravy thicker?
Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking. - Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, cook on medium heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and will add extra flavor and moisture. - How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - What can I serve with this dish?
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a perfect solution for a hassle-free, comforting meal. With its rich, savory gravy and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of slow cooking with this delicious recipe that delivers on both flavor and convenience.