Classic Chicken and Gravy (Slow Cooked)

If you’re craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, Classic Chicken and Gravy is a simple, flavorful recipe that hits all the right notes. Tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy, savory gravy make this slow-cooker dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. The best part? It’s effortless to prepare—just combine a few pantry staples, let your slow cooker do the work, and come back to a rich, satisfying dinner.

Personal Story

I first tried this slow-cooked chicken recipe during a hectic week when I had almost no time to cook. I tossed the chicken and a few simple ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and by evening, the house smelled like a comforting restaurant. The chicken was tender, the gravy creamy, and the flavors perfectly blended. Since then, this dish has become my go-to when I need a warm, fuss-free meal that everyone enjoys. Even picky eaters couldn’t resist the creamy sauce over mashed potatoes.

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Preparing the Base

Creating the Perfect Gravy

The foundation of this recipe is the creamy, savory gravy. Start by whisking together two cans of cream of chicken soup, two packets of chicken gravy mix, and two cups of water or chicken broth. Add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a teaspoon of onion powder for depth of flavor. Whisk until smooth to avoid lumps. Using broth instead of water adds extra richness, but water works in a pinch. This base will coat your chicken beautifully and thicken into a luxurious sauce as it cooks.

Slow Cooker Tips

Using a slow cooker ensures your chicken stays juicy while the flavors meld perfectly. Make sure to spray or lightly grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared gravy into the slow cooker first before adding the chicken, so each piece is evenly coated. Stirring the chicken in the gravy ensures the seasoning and flavors penetrate the meat for a consistent taste throughout.

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Cooking the Chicken

Low vs. High Heat

Cooking on LOW for 8 hours produces tender, fall-apart chicken with deep flavors, ideal if you have the whole day to let it simmer. If time is limited, cooking on HIGH for 4 hours works as well, though the flavors won’t be as deeply developed. Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Overcooking can dry out the meat, but the gravy usually helps keep it moist.

Adding Flavor Boosters

For extra flavor, consider a splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter stirred into the gravy at the end. This enriches the sauce, giving it a restaurant-quality finish. You can also adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper once the chicken is cooked. These small tweaks elevate a simple slow-cooked dish to something truly comforting and memorable.

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Serving Suggestions

Over Starches

Classic Chicken and Gravy is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pour the tender chicken and creamy gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or pasta. Each option soaks up the sauce differently, providing a unique taste experience. Mashed potatoes are a traditional favorite, while rice or pasta makes it a quick and easy weeknight option.

Adding Vegetables

For added color and nutrition, stir in quick-cooking vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans during the last hour of cooking. This ensures they remain crisp-tender and don’t overcook. Vegetables not only add texture but also make the dish feel heartier and more balanced, turning it into a complete one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.

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Tips and Tricks for Perfection

Adjusting Gravy Thickness

Sometimes the gravy may be thinner than desired. To thicken, leave the slow cooker uncovered for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, whisk in a small cornstarch slurry made of one tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon of water. Stir continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much. For freezing, portion the chicken and gravy into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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FAQ

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. They are slightly more flavorful and forgiving, remaining tender even if cooked slightly longer.

2. Is it necessary to use both cream of chicken soup and gravy mix?
Yes, the soup adds creaminess while the gravy mix provides savory depth and thickening. Together, they create the classic flavor profile.

3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Use the sauté function to mix the gravy ingredients, then cook on high pressure for 10–12 minutes, followed by a natural release.

4. How can I make the gravy richer?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end of cooking for a richer, silkier texture.

5. Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken and gravy in the slow cooker, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving; the flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

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Conclusion

Classic Chicken and Gravy is a foolproof slow-cooker recipe that combines simplicity with rich, comforting flavor. With tender chicken, creamy gravy, and the flexibility to serve over your favorite starch, it’s a meal that satisfies every time. By following the tips above, you can make this dish your own—whether adding vegetables, enriching the gravy, or adjusting cooking times. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, proving that classic comfort food never goes out of style.