Table of Contents
Introduction
There’s something profoundly comforting about walking into a home filled with the mouthwatering aroma of crockpot chicken and gravy simmering away. As a busy mom of three who also juggles work deadlines, I’ve come to rely on my slow cooker like it’s another family member dependable, hardworking, and always delivering when I need it most.
The magic of crockpot chicken and gravy first entered my life during a particularly chaotic season. I was desperately searching for meals that could practically cook themselves while delivering the comforting flavors my family craved. After countless test batches and tweaks (some more successful than others!), I’ve perfected a crockpot chicken and gravy recipe that has become our household’s definition of comfort food.
What makes this dish so special isn’t just its incredible flavor it’s the beautiful simplicity of it. Tender chicken that falls apart at the touch of a fork, swimming in a rich, velvety gravy that tastes like you’ve been standing over the stove all day. But you haven’t. That’s the miracle of it.
In a world of complicated, ingredient heavy recipes, crockpot chicken and gravy stands as a testament to how sometimes the simplest combinations create the most satisfying meals. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’re rewarded with a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for a busy week ahead, or simply craving something deeply satisfying, this crockpot chicken and gravy recipe delivers every single time. And today, I’m sharing not just the basic recipe, but seven incredible ways to elevate this humble dish to new heights.
Why This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe Is a Must Try
• Effortless Preparation: Just 10 minutes of prep before your slow cooker does all the work
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable cuts of chicken that become incredibly tender in the slow cooker
• Family-Approved: Even picky eaters clean their plates when this is served
• Versatile Base: Can be transformed into countless variations (I’ll show you 7 amazing ways!)
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezer meals
• Rich Comfort Food Taste: Creates gravy so good you’ll want to drink it with a straw
• Minimal Ingredients: Most items are likely already in your pantry
• Perfect for Busy Days: Set it in the morning, come home to dinner ready to serve
• No Cream Soups Required: My version uses real ingredients, not processed canned soups
• Impressive Enough for Company: Despite its simplicity, it’s worthy of serving to guests
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions: crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
The Chicken
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- Why It’s Important: Creates tender, lean meat that shreds beautifully
- Substitutions: Boneless chicken thighs work amazingly well and add more flavor (I actually prefer them!)
The Gravy Base
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- Why It’s Important: Forms the foundation of your gravy without making it too salty
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth works in a pinch, or use water + extra bouillon
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder
- Why It’s Important: Adds depth of flavor without chunks that picky eaters might object to
- Substitutions: 1 small diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves if you prefer fresh (add with chicken)
Poultry Seasoning
- Why It’s Important: Provides that classic comfort food flavor profile with one simple ingredient
- Substitutions: Equal parts dried thyme, sage, and rosemary
The Thickener
Cornstarch
- Why It’s Important: Creates silky smooth gravy without lumps
- You can use flour instead, but mix it with cold water first to avoid lumps.
Butter
- Why It’s Important: Adds richness and helps create velvety texture
- Substitutions: Olive oil for a lighter version, or ghee for dairy sensitivities
Optional Flavor Boosters
Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
- Why It’s Important: Intensifies chicken flavor without adding more liquid
- Substitutions: Chicken bouillon cube or additional poultry seasoning
Fresh Herbs
- Why It’s Important: Brightens the dish before serving
- Substitutions: Use any herbs you have on hand – thyme, parsley, or chives all work wonderfully
Step-by-Step Instructions with Expert Tips: crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Arrange chicken breasts (or thighs) in a single layer on the bottom of your slow cooker. *For even cooking, try to choose pieces that are similar in thickness.* Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Pro Tip: Don’t rinse your chicken before cooking! The USDA advises against this as it can spread bacteria around your kitchen.
2. Create Your Flavor Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder until well combined. Pour this mixture over your chicken.
Pro Tip: Adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce at this stage creates amazing depth of flavor without making the dish taste Asian or like steak sauce!
3. Set It and (Almost) Forget It
Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Low and slow usually yields more tender results, but both methods work well.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your crockpot runs hot (many newer models do), check for doneness on the earlier side of the time range to prevent dry chicken.
4. Thicken That Glorious Gravy
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken to a plate and shred it using two forks. *The chicken should pull apart easily – if it doesn’t, it needs more time.*
In a small bowl, make a slurry by whisking 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour this into the liquid remaining in the crockpot, stirring well.
Pro Tip: Always use COLD water when making a cornstarch slurry. Hot water will cause the cornstarch to clump immediately, resulting in lumpy gravy.
5. Create That Velvety Finish
Place 4 tablespoons of butter in the slow cooker and stir until melted. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix thoroughly to coat with the thickened gravy. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes until the gravy is thick and silky.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your gravy isn’t thickening enough after 15 minutes, make another small cornstarch slurry and add it gradually while stirring.
6. Final Seasoning Check
Taste your chicken and gravy, adding additional salt and pepper as needed. This is also the time to stir in any fresh herbs if using.
Pro Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (just a teaspoon) brightens all the flavors without making it taste lemony!
7. Serve It Up
Spoon this deliciousness over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich. Garnish with fresh herbs for a color pop and flavor boost.
Make-Ahead Tip: This dish actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld!
Storage, Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
Refrigerator Storage
Leftover crockpot chicken and gravy will keep beautifully in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually continue to develop, making day 2 sometimes even better than day 1!
Freezer Instructions
This dish freezes exceptionally well, perfect for meal prepping or emergency weeknight dinners:
- – Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely
- – Portion into freezer safe containers (I like to use silicone muffin trays for single servings)
- – Label with the date and contents (trust me, frozen mystery food is no fun)
- – Freeze for up to 3 months
Reheating Methods
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through
- Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium low heat, adding a splash of broth if the gravy is too thick
- Oven: Place in an oven safe dish, covered with foil, at 325°F for about 20 minutes
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture results.
Giving Leftovers New Life
- Transform leftovers into a quick pot pie by adding vegetables and topping with refrigerated biscuits
- Make chicken and gravy breakfast bowls with a fried egg on top
- Stuff into baked potatoes with cheese for a hearty lunch
Creative Variations & Serving Ideas: crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
1. Mushroom Lover’s Chicken and Gravy
Add 8oz of sliced mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix) to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. The mushrooms release their earthy flavor into the gravy while maintaining their texture. Finish with a dash of sherry or white wine for restaurant quality flavor.
2. Herb Garden Chicken and Gravy
Transform the basic recipe by adding a robust herb blend. Mix 1 tablespoon each of fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage before serving. The fresh herbs create a beautiful aroma and elevate the dish to Sunday dinner status.
3. French Onion Chicken and Gravy
Sauté 2 large onions until deeply caramelized before adding to your crockpot. Mix in a tablespoon of beef bouillon and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to create flavors similar to French onion soup. Top with Swiss or Gruyere cheese before serving for an incredible fusion dish.
4. Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Gravy
Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This creates a richer, restaurant style dish that’s perfect over fettuccine pasta.
5. Southern-Style Chicken and Gravy
Add ½ teaspoon of poultry seasoning and serve over homemade buttermilk biscuits instead of mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with cracked black pepper and a tiny pinch of cayenne for Southern flair.
6. Loaded Chicken and Gravy Bowls
Create a “loaded” version by serving over mashed potatoes and topping with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions like a savory sundae!
7. Harvest Chicken and Gravy
During fall months, add diced sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of poultry seasoning for a harvest-inspired variation that’s perfect for cozy autumn nights.
Perfect Pairings
- Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta
- Breads: Buttermilk biscuits, dinner rolls, or thick slices of sourdough bread
- Vegetables: Steamed green beans with almonds, honey glazed carrots, or a simple side salad
- Beverages: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, unsweetened iced tea, or apple cider
Nutrition Value: crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
| | Amount per Serving |
|———-|——————-|
| Calories | 285 |
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| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 14g (5g saturated) |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Vitamin A | 6% DV |
| Potassium | 430mg |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup of chicken with gravy
This crockpot chicken and gravy recipe is naturally:
- Low-carb (without the starchy sides)
- Gluten-free (when using cornstarch instead of flour)
- High in protein
*Nutrition information calculated using the USDA Food Database and standard recipe ingredients. Values may vary based on specific ingredients and portions used.*
When served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, expect to add approximately 150-200 calories and 25-30g carbohydrates per serving.
What I love most about this dish is that it delivers incredible comfort food satisfaction while being relatively lean when prepared with chicken breasts. If you opt for chicken thighs, you’ll increase the fat content slightly but gain additional flavor and moisture.
For those watching sodium, try reducing the salt and using sodium free chicken broth the herbs and spices will still provide plenty of flavor.
Expert Tips for crockpot chicken and gravy recipe
My Top Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
1. Don’t Skip the Searing (Optional but worth it): If you have an extra 5 minutes, searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot creates deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction. Not essential, but a game changer!
2. The Low Setting Is Your Friend: While the high setting works in a pinch, cooking on low results in more tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth.
3. Watch That Chicken Temperature: Chicken breasts are perfectly cooked at 165°F. Beyond that, they can dry out quickly. If you’re home, check with a meat thermometer around the 5-hour mark on low.
4. The Secret to Smooth Gravy: Always mix your cornstarch with cold water before adding it to hot liquid, and be sure to stir well to prevent lumps.
5. Season in Layers: Season the chicken directly before adding the liquid, then taste and adjust seasonings again at the end.
6. Rest Before Shredding: Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before shredding helps retain moisture.
7. Gravy Too Thin? If your gravy isn’t thickening enough, remove the lid of your crockpot for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s technically possible, I don’t recommend it for food safety reasons. Frozen chicken takes too long to reach a safe temperature in a slow cooker, potentially allowing bacteria to multiply. Always thaw your chicken before slow cooking.
How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for naturally moister meat, make sure not to overcook, and keep the lid on your crockpot during cooking to trap moisture.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s technically possible, I don’t recommend it for food safety reasons. Frozen chicken takes too long to reach a safe temperature in a slow cooker, potentially allowing bacteria to multiply. Always thaw your chicken before slow cooking.
How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for naturally moister meat, make sure not to overcook, and keep the lid on your crockpot during cooking to trap moisture.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute. The gravy won’t be quite as rich but will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Make another cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water) and add it to the hot gravy, stirring constantly until thickened.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Yes, but add heartier vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the beginning, and more delicate ones like peas or green beans during the last 30-60 minutes to prevent them from overcooking.
How can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?
Use the sauté function to sear the chicken, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with a 10-minute natural release. Remove the chicken, use the sauté function again to thicken the gravy with your cornstarch slurry.
My gravy turned out lumpy. How can I fix it?
Strain it through a fine mesh sieve, or blend it with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
Is crockpot chicken and gravy keto-friendly?
The basic recipe is relatively low in carbs. To make it fully keto-friendly, substitute xanthan gum (¼ teaspoon at a time) for cornstarch as your thickener.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours and ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate everything without overcrowding.
Conclusion
There you have it everything you need to create the most amazing crockpot chicken and gravy that will have your family or guests asking for seconds (and your secret)! What I love most about this dish is that it proves exceptional cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming.
The beautiful simplicity of crockpot chicken and gravy is that it offers both comfort and versatility. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the seven variations I’ve shared, you’ll end up with a meal that feels like home.
I’d love to know which variation sounds most appealing to you! Are you a mushroom lover or more of a creamy Parmesan type? Drop a comment below sharing how you plan to make this recipe your own.
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Until next time, happy slow cooking!