Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its tender shredded chicken enveloped in a rich, savory gravy, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to dish for busy weekdays, while the delightful flavors ensure it’s suitable for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty meal with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a truly comforting experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken broth and cream of chicken soup creates a deliciously creamy gravy.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles for a variety of meal options.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe makes great leftovers that taste even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooking spray or butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while ensuring your chicken becomes tender and flavorful.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: A simple tool that helps blend your ingredients smoothly, avoiding lumps in your gravy.
• Cooking spray or butter: Essential for greasing your slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)

Optional Ingredient

• ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Chicken

Place the boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried parsley until well combined.

Step 4: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. If desired, stir in sour cream for added creaminess.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is all about creating a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish pairs well with many sides, making it versatile for any occasion.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes provide a creamy base that absorbs the rich gravy perfectly.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all the delicious flavors of the gravy.

On Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles add a delightful texture and are excellent for holding onto the sauce.

With Steamed Vegetables

• A side of steamed broccoli or green beans complements the dish’s richness while adding color and nutrition.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create a hearty wrap filled with chicken and gravy, perfect for a quick lunch.

As a Sandwich

• Shred the chicken further and serve it on crusty bread for a warm and satisfying sandwich option.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

To make your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy even better, consider these useful tips:

• Choose the Right Cut of Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture than breasts.

• Enhance Flavor with Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding depth to your dish.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to taste; adding rosemary or thyme can give it an aromatic twist.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots or celery at the beginning for added nutrition and flavor.

• Use Sour Cream Wisely: Stir in sour cream towards the end of cooking for extra creaminess without curdling.

• Shredding Technique: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker to keep all those delicious juices intact.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf slathered in garlic butter complements the creamy gravy beautifully.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the dish’s richness.

3. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy flavors.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory gravy.

5. Cornbread: This classic Southern side adds a slightly sweet flavor that goes hand-in-hand with chicken and gravy.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs can provide a refreshing counterpoint to this hearty meal.

7. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and freshness while being easy to prepare.

8. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s important to avoid common pitfalls when making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using frozen chicken – Frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking. Always use thawed chicken for the best results.
• Not seasoning properly – Skipping or under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Opening the lid too often – Frequent lid lifting releases heat and extends cooking time. Keep the lid closed during cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Monitor the cooking time closely based on your slow cooker settings.
• Neglecting to shred properly – Not shredding the chicken well may lead to large, chewy pieces. Shred thoroughly for even distribution in the gravy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will provide a richer flavor due to their higher fat content.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy?

This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or omit it entirely.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots or peas can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of cooking times.

Is there a way to spice it up?

For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a delightful recipe that offers both comfort and versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Try it today for an effortless meal that warms the soul!