If you are craving a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful blend of tender chicken bathed in a luscious, velvety gravy that has just the right balance of savory flavors and a subtle hint of herbs. Making this dish is effortless, letting your slow cooker do all the work while filling your home with an irresistible aroma. The end result is a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, delivering warmth, richness, and pure satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken breast providing protein and tenderness, to the cream of chicken soup which builds that creamy texture everyone loves. The seasonings add layers of depth, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming the dish’s comforting nature.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Choose thighs if you prefer juicier, richer chicken with more flavor.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and forms the base of the gravy.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: The secret ingredient for creamy, silky consistency and that irresistible homemade taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a mild, sweet undertone that complements the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky depth and a pop of color.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough kick to balance the creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- ½ cup sour cream (optional): Stirred in at the end, it elevates creaminess to a whole new level and adds a slight tang.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This small step ensures the creamy gravy stays smooth and luscious without clinging stubbornly to the sides.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs right at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arranging the chicken in an even layer helps it cook uniformly and soak up all the flavors of the gravy as it simmers.
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried parsley. This mixture packs all the delicious notes your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe is famous for. Getting this sauce right is key to achieving that rich, comforting flavor.
Step 4: Pour Over the Chicken
Pour the creamy, seasoned mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. This step ensures every bite is full of gravy love, ready to meld into tender perfection as it cooks slowly.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Take this time to relax, knowing your chicken is becoming irresistibly tender and infused with the creamy gravy flavors we adore.
Step 6: Shred and Stir
Once your chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred, use two forks to pull it apart directly inside the slow cooker. Stir in the optional sour cream here if you want to add an extra layer of creaminess and tang that makes this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your comforting, creamy chicken and gravy is now ready to be served. Warm, flavorful, and succulent—this dish welcomes a variety of serving options to make mealtime special.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can brighten up this rich dish wonderfully. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that cuts through the creaminess. For a bit of crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions make delightful toppings.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Each side soaks up the delectable gravy perfectly, creating a well-rounded, hearty meal that’s both filling and full of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy chicken and gravy over baked sweet potatoes or creamy polenta. You can also turn it into a comforting pot pie filling topped with flaky puff pastry. Presentation is all about making this familiar dish feel fresh and exciting every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent the gravy from separating. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. Avoid microwave reheating if possible for the best creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are an excellent choice for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful throughout the slow cooking process. If you prefer dark meat, thighs will add a richer taste to your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe.
Is sour cream necessary?
Sour cream is optional but highly recommended if you want extra richness and a slight tang that brightens the dish. If you don’t have it on hand or prefer to avoid dairy, you can skip it and still have a delicious creamy gravy.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
While this recipe is designed for the slow cooker to develop deep flavor and tender chicken, you can adapt it for the stovetop by simmering on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
How thick will the gravy be?
The gravy will be thick and creamy but still pourable, perfect for coating your chicken and spooning over sides like mashed potatoes or rice. If you prefer a thinner consistency, just add a splash of chicken broth before serving.
What’s the best way to shred the chicken?
Using two forks to gently pull apart the cooked chicken right in the slow cooker is the easiest method. This keeps the meat moist and helps it absorb the creamy gravy perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy, homemade hug after a long day. Its ease, flavor, and comforting texture make it a go-to for busy cooks who crave something both simple and truly satisfying. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every creamy, tender bite as much as I do!
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Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make meal featuring tender chicken cooked slowly in a flavorful blend of chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and aromatic seasonings. Finished with optional sour cream for extra creaminess, it’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Sauce
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 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
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease your slow cooker to prevent the chicken from sticking and for easier cleanup later.
- Place the chicken: Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried parsley until fully combined.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated for maximum flavor infusion during cooking.
- Slow cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6-7 hours, or on the high setting for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred and finish: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir in the sour cream if you desire a creamier consistency and richer flavor.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a juicier texture.
- Sour cream is optional but adds extra richness. You can omit it for a lighter dish.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- For thicker gravy, remove the lid near the end of cooking and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
