Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Gravy: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal
This recipe transforms boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a tender, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the hard work, simmering the chicken in a savory gravy for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons better-than-bouillon chicken base (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 packets reduced-sodium chicken gravy mix
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- ½ cup sour cream
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Combine the Slow Cooker Magic: In your slow cooker, whisk together the chicken broth (or water), chicken base (if using), gravy mixes, condensed soup, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
- Nestle the Chicken: Gently add the seasoned chicken breasts to the slow cooker, ensuring they are coated evenly with the flavorful liquid.
- Slow Cooker to the Rescue: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily with a fork.
Tips:
- Kick it Up a Notch: For a richer flavor, brown the chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. This step creates a beautiful golden sear and additional depth of flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add a cup of frozen vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or corn, to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a more complete meal.
- Creamy Dream: For an extra decadent touch, stir in the sour cream after the chicken has cooked through. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thicken Up: If your gravy seems too thin after shredding the chicken, you can whisk together a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) and add it to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
- Flavor Frenzy: Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings! Add a pinch of dried rosemary, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a twist on the classic flavor profile.
- Leftovers Reimagined: Shredded chicken and gravy are incredibly versatile! Use them to make chicken pot pie, creamy chicken and rice casserole, or flavorful chicken salad sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions:
Spoon the shredded chicken and creamy gravy over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor.
This slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table that your whole family will love. So ditch the takeout menus and give this recipe a try!
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