This Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy is warm, simple, and full of homey flavor. The chicken turns soft and juicy, and the gravy is rich and smooth. It’s true comfort food, great for busy days or a cozy night in. Kids and adults both love it, and it warms the whole house with good smells. You can call it slow cooker chicken or a gravy-topped dinner, it always feels special.
How to prepare Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
- Pat 3 to 4 chicken breasts or thighs dry, salt and pepper both sides.
- Place one chopped onion and two peeled, sliced carrots in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Put the chicken on top, add 2 cups low sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and set aside.
- Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water, stir into the slow cooker liquid to thicken the gravy. Cook on high for 10 minutes until it thickens.
- Return the shredded chicken to the gravy, stir, and serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or with biscuits.
Tips for success
- Use chicken thighs if you want more flavor and less chance of drying out.
- Do not lift the lid while cooking, it lets heat escape and adds time.
- Use low sodium broth so you can control salt.
- If the gravy is too thin, add a little more cornstarch mix and cook a few minutes more.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamier gravy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
- Spoon over rice or egg noodles for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Split biscuits and pour the chicken and gravy inside for a hearty sandwich.
- Add a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad to balance the meal.
This recipe for Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy feels like a warm hug. It is easy to make and fills the kitchen with rich, savory aroma. The chicken comes out tender, and the gravy tastes like it simmered all day. It’s a real crowd-pleaser for family dinners or when friends drop by. If you like slow cooker comfort food, try a related dish like crock pot chicken pot pie. Trust me, you will want to make this again and again.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in the crock pot?
A: You can, but it takes longer and may cook unevenly. Thaw first if you can.
Q: How do I make the gravy smooth?
A: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding, then stir well as it cooks to avoid lumps.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, breasts work fine. Watch time closely, they can dry out if overcooked.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Pat chicken breasts or thighs dry, salt and pepper both sides.
- Place chopped onion and sliced carrots in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Put the chicken on top, then add chicken broth, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and set aside.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water, stir into the slow cooker liquid to thicken the gravy.
- Cook on high for 10 minutes until it thickens.
- Return shredded chicken to the gravy, stir, and serve hot.
