Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food Guide

There’s nothing more satisfying than a cozy bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, savory gravy. It’s a classic dump-and-go comfort food that tastes like it took hours, because it did, but you didn’t have to babysit it!

Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for the family, this recipe pairs beautifully with hearty sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. It’s a weeknight dinner you’ll make on repeat.

For more one-pot style chicken dishes, check out this flavorful creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet or the super satisfying crockpot chicken pot roast.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy isn’t just another slow cooker meal, it’s the kind of dish that keeps making its way back into your weekly rotation. Here’s why:

  • Effortless prep: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away, perfect for busy days or when you just need a break from the kitchen.
  • Tender, juicy chicken: The slow cooking method guarantees moist, flavorful chicken that falls apart with a fork.
  • Versatile serving options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits, whatever comfort looks like for you.
  • Pantry-friendly ingredients: No fancy groceries needed. This recipe relies on everyday staples you likely already have.
  • Meal-prep & freezer friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for easy future meals.
  • Family-approved: Even picky eaters love this rich, creamy chicken. It’s kid-friendly and cozy.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this is one of the most loved slow cooker recipes on the internet, and soon, in your home too.

Ingredients Needed For Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need to make a basic version of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy:

  • 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or use chicken thighs for more flavor)
  • 1 packet of chicken gravy mix (or homemade – see below)
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper

Substitutions:

  • Use cream of mushroom for an earthy twist.
  • Prefer homemade sauces? Learn how to make a base similar to what you’d use in a chicken pot pie with crescent rolls.
  • Add veggies like carrots or peas to bulk it up.

How To Make this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, water, and spices.
  2. Add to crockpot: Place raw chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
  3. Set it and forget it:
    • Low for 6–7 hours
    • High for 3–4 hours
  4. Shred or slice chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the gravy.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess
  • Sautéed mushrooms or onions
  • A pinch of poultry seasoning or dried thyme

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Juicy slow-cooked chicken topped with creamy gravy and sautéed mushrooms, garnished with parsley in a rustic dish

This dish pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Mashed potatoes (the most popular option)
  • Steamed white rice or brown rice
  • Egg noodles or buttered pasta
  • Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread
  • With sides like creamy potato salad or roasted green beans

Nutritional Info & Health Tips

A typical serving of Crockpot Chicken and Gravy (about 1 cup) includes:

  • Calories: ~180–220
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Fat: ~6–8g
  • Carbs: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~900–1100mg

Make It Healthier:

  • Use low-fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup
  • Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
  • Choose low-sodium gravy packets and broth
  • Serve over cauliflower mash instead of potatoes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using frozen chicken: It’s not safe for crockpots. Always thaw first.
  • Overcooking: Leads to dry, stringy meat.
  • Not seasoning enough: Add extra herbs or spices to taste.
  • Lumpy gravy: Mix the sauce thoroughly before pouring over the chicken.

Recipe Variations

Spice things up with these tasty twists:

  • Ranch Chicken and Gravy: Add a packet of ranch dressing mix.
  • Spicy Version: Mix in hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
  • Cream Cheese Version: Stir in cream cheese 30 minutes before serving.
  • Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add a can of mushrooms or fresh slices halfway through cooking.
  • Comfort fusion: Layer it inside puff pastry like in a Pillsbury chicken pot pie.

Storage, Meal Prep & Freezing

Storing:

Freezing:

  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave

Meal Prep Tip:

  • Make a double batch and freeze half for busy weeks!

How to Adjust the Gravy

Sometimes you need to tweak the texture. Here’s how:

To Thicken:

  • Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, stirred in 20 minutes before serving)

To Thin:

  • Add extra chicken broth or water a little at a time

Bonus tip: Avoid adding thickening agents at the beginning, they work best at the end when the mixture is hot.

Crockpot vs. Instant Pot vs. Stovetop

FeatureCrockpotInstant PotStovetop
EaseSet and forgetQuick, but less hands-offHands-on monitoring
TextureMoist, tender chickenSimilar but slightly firmerCustomizable
Time6–8 hours30–40 minutes30 minutes (active)

All methods work, but the crockpot is best for hands-free, set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

Top Tips from Real Users

Here’s what home cooks recommend based on reviews from top recipe blogs:

  • Add cream cheese for a richer flavor
  • Use chicken thighs for more juicy meat
  • Add veggies like frozen peas in the last hour
  • Stir in shredded cheddar at the end for a cheesy twist
  • Serve over buttery biscuits for true Southern comfort

FAQs About Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

What is the best chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving.

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s not recommended for slow cookers due to food safety concerns. Always thaw chicken first.

How do I keep chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use enough gravy to keep it moist. Cooking on low gives the best texture.

Can I make gravy from scratch?

Yes! Use butter, flour, broth, and seasonings.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Try mushrooms, carrots, peas, or green beans during the last hour of cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free meal, Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is it. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and loved by adults and kids alike. With simple pantry staples and minimal effort, you get a dish that’s hearty, creamy, and satisfying every single time.

Whether you’re enjoying it over mashed potatoes or biscuits, this recipe brings all the comfort food vibes without the hassle. Happy slow cooking!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Tender crockpot chicken and gravy served with a rich mushroom cream sauce and fresh herbs in a white bowl.

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food Guide


  • Author: MERIEM
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A comforting slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, savory gravy made with pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.


Ingredients

Scale

23 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 packet chicken gravy mix
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

Whisk together the gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, water or broth, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and thyme in a bowl until smooth
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot
Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks or slice and stir back into the gravy
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired

Notes

For added richness, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking
Do not use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot—thaw first for food safety
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 3 months
To thicken the gravy, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water) during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking
Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra flavor and nutrients

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: crockpot chicken and gravy, slow cooker chicken and gravy, creamy chicken crockpot dinner, dump and go chicken recipe, chicken comfort food

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating