This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a real lifesaver! Juicy chicken simmers in a rich, comforting gravy, making dinner a breeze on busy days.
You can throw in some veggies too, because who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? I often serve it over mashed potatoes for a warm, happy plate that feels like a hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. However, you can also use thighs for a richer flavor, or even frozen chicken if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time if using frozen!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient adds creaminess and a ton of flavor. If you want a healthier option, you could use a homemade cream of chicken mix or even cream of mushroom soup for a different twist.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: Ranch seasoning gives a great flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can create a homemade blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, or simply use Italian seasoning instead.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth enhances the gravy’s flavor. If you’re low on broth, water works in a pinch, but you might want to add a bit of extra seasoning.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Thickness for the Gravy?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, using cornstarch is the way to go. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Once your chicken is cooked, take it out of the slow cooker and keep it warm.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create what’s called a slurry. This prevents lumps in your gravy.
- Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker, then cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
- Return that flavorful chicken back into the pot, and coat it well with the gravy before serving.
This method is simple and gives you control over the gravy’s consistency. Enjoy your perfect comfort meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, with cooking times of about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day; you can set it and forget it until it’s time to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts right at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps them cook perfectly as the juices from the gravy will soak into them.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and onion powder. Stir until everything is smoothly combined and looks nice and creamy.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Ensure they are all evenly covered. Then, cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This allows the chicken to become tender and soak up all those flavors.
4. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you like your gravy a bit thicker, remove the chicken breasts after cooking and keep them warm. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the gravy in the slow cooker and then cook it on high for another 10-15 minutes. This will make it deliciously thick!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Return the chicken to the slow cooker to coat it in that wonderful gravy. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve this hearty dish over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it lighter, you can use low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduce the amount of ranch seasoning. Additionally, swap out the chicken broth for low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on sodium content!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, green beans, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them on top of the chicken before pouring in the sauce. They should cook nicely in the same timeframe!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist and flavorful!
