This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Creamy Gravy is a cozy dish that will warm your heart! Imagine tender chicken simmered in a creamy gravy that’s irresistible.
You can set it and forget it, making dinner prep a breeze. I love serving it over mashed potatoes or rice, and trust me, everyone keeps asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they remain juicy and shred easily. If you’re looking for a change, you could use thighs for extra flavor or even rotisserie chicken to save time!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is a base for the creamy gravy. If you prefer a healthier or homemade option, you can use a homemade white sauce instead. For a vegetarian version, look for a cream of mushroom soup.
Chicken Broth: It adds flavor and moisture. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish. If you’re low on broth, water will work too, though it may have less flavor.
Dry Ranch Seasoning: This gives a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, you can mix together herbs like dill, parsley, and chives for a similar taste. Homemade ranch spices are also a great option!
How Do I Get the Chicken Tender and Shreddable?
Getting the chicken just right is critical to this recipe. Cooking in a slow cooker is fantastic because it makes the meat tender. Here’s how to ensure perfect chicken:
- Put the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
- Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2.5 to 3 hours. Keep an eye on it near the end to prevent overcooking.
- When it’s done, let the chicken rest slightly before shredding so you don’t burn your fingers!
- Use two forks to shred the chicken gently, then stir it back into the gravy—this blends the flavors well.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by slow cooking for 5 to 6 hours on low or 2.5 to 3 hours on high. So, just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and become tender.
2. Mix the Gravy:
In a medium bowl, grab your whisk and mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Mixture to the Chicken:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. This will give the chicken a wonderful flavor while it cooks!
4. Cook it Up:
Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to low for about 5 to 6 hours or high for 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and shreddable.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and then return it to the slow cooker. This lets the chicken soak up all that tasty gravy!
6. Add the Final Touch:
Stir in the sour cream until it’s well mixed with the gravy, making it extra creamy and delicious.
7. Thicken (Optional):
If you like your gravy a bit thicker, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker and stir. Let it cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens up.
8. Serve it Up:
Serve your creamy chicken and gravy over a bed of warm, cooked white rice for a comforting meal.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite of your comforting, creamy slow cooker chicken with gravy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time and keep the slow cooker covered to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure the cream of chicken soup and ranch seasoning you use are labeled gluten-free. You can also make your own ranch seasoning using gluten-free herbs and spices!
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Do I Reheat Them?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
What Can I Serve with This Dish Besides Rice?
This creamy chicken gravy pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad are also great sides to round out the meal!
