This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy is a warm hug in a bowl! Just toss chicken, gravy, and a few seasonings into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
The chicken turns out super tender, and the gravy is oh-so-smooth. I love serving it over rice or mashed potatoes. So comforting and easy, you’ll make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their moisture and flavor. If you need a leaner option, use skinless, boneless thighs or chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time since breasts can cook faster.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or use onion powder instead. It won’t have the same texture, but it’ll still add flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works too. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought will do just fine. If you’re looking to lower sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also substitute with vegetable broth if you’re avoiding meat.
Dry Salad Dressing Mix: This adds so much flavor! If you don’t have it, mix dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme together instead. It’s a great homemade version!
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender Chicken?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker makes it really tender, but here are some tips to make it even better:
- Choose bone-in chicken: The bones keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
- Don’t rush it: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is best for tenderness. If you’re short on time, you can go high for 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on it.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in moisture.
These simple tips ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry Italian salad dressing mix or your choice of herbs (like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let your slow cooker do its magic! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal. Perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season them lightly with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds so much flavor!
2. Prepare the Base:
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will infuse the chicken with great flavors as it cooks.
3. Add the Chicken:
Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions and garlic in a single layer. This helps with even cooking.
4. Make the Gravy Mix:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, dry Italian salad dressing mix, dry onion soup mix, and cream of chicken soup until it’s nice and smooth. Pour this delightful mixture over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its thing! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Final Touches:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate. We’ll finish the gravy next!
7. Thicken the Gravy:
Stir the gravy in the slow cooker to combine. If you want it thicker, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the gravy and cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens up.
8. Serve It Up:
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and spoon the gravy over it, or serve the chicken individually topped with the gravy. Oh, and don’t forget the garnish! Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve this beautiful dish hot over fluffy mashed potatoes, warm rice, or buttery egg noodles. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love!
This slow cooker chicken and gravy is a fuss-free, hearty dish with tender chicken thighs smothered in creamy, flavorful gravy—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
FAQ
Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts are great alternatives. Just remember that they may cook faster, so check for doneness at around 3 hours on high or 4 hours on low.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free chicken broth and make sure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well. You can also replace the dry soup mix with your own blend of herbs for flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow thawing overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Chicken and Gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy. Fresh vegetables or a simple salad on the side also make a great addition to the meal!
