Recipe Guide:
Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy Recipe – Cozy Comfort in Every Spoonful
Introduction
The kitchen smelled like Sunday — warm, savory, and a little like home. As the slow cooker hummed, I knew this Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy would be ready to wrap us in comfort. I love how the gravy thickens slowly, and then the house fills with that chicken-and-herbs aroma that makes everyone wander toward the kitchen. If you like hearty casseroles, you might also enjoy this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole, which feels just as cozy on the table.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and easy to make, with very little hands-on time.
- Comforting homemade flavor that tastes like slow Sunday dinners.
- Made with simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
- Great for family meals, potlucks, or a quiet weeknight.
- Always a crowd-pleaser — even the picky eaters ask for seconds.
Also, if you want another family favorite, try this chicken and stuffing casserole for a similar warm hug from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 2 lb / 900 g) — use thighs for more juice; breasts are leaner.
- 1 can (10 3/4 oz / 305 g) cream of chicken soup — provides that silky, familiar base.
- 2 packets (about 1 oz / 28 g each) chicken gravy mix — choose low-sodium if possible.
- 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) water — adjust slightly if you want a thinner gravy.
- 1/2 tsp salt (3 g), or to taste — start light, then finish with salt.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (1 g), or to taste — freshly cracked if you can.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (1.5 g) — fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (1.5 g) — adds depth without any chopping.
Chef note: If you prefer, stir in a splash of milk at the end for an extra creamy gravy. Also, this pairs wonderfully with a simple soup like this white bean and chicken soup for a bigger meal.
How to Make It
- First, whisk the cream of chicken soup, both gravy mix packets, and water in the slow cooker bowl until smooth. The mixture should look silky and lump-free.
- Then stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. You’ll smell that warm, savory scent right away.
- Meanwhile, season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Press the seasoning in so it sticks.
- Next, place the chicken on top of the soup mixture. Turn each piece so it’s coated in the gravy mix. The sauce will cling and look glossy.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours. You’ll know it’s tender when the meat pulls apart easily with a fork.
- Finally, stir before serving to mix the gravy evenly. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits for the full cozy effect. For another hearty pairing, try it with beef and barley soup on the side for extra comfort.
You’ll hear subtle bubbles and then a gentle simmer — that’s the sound of flavor melding slowly.
Kitchen Tips
- Time-saver: Trim chicken and season the night before, then pop everything in the slow cooker in the morning.
- Fix for thin gravy: If the sauce is too thin, whisk 1–2 tbsp cornstarch with cold water, stir into the hot gravy, and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes.
- Flavor twist: Stir in a cup of frozen peas and a squeeze of lemon in the last 20 minutes for brightness and color.
Serving Ideas
Serve this Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy steaming over creamy mashed potatoes for pure comfort, or spoon it over rice to soak up every drop. For a Southern-style plate, add warm biscuits and a crisp green salad. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color, and offer hot sauce on the side for anyone who likes a little heat. Perfect for family dinners, a cozy night in, or when you want a low-effort holiday side that still feels special.
Storing & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Leftover idea: Shred the chicken and mix with a little extra gravy, then pile into biscuits or a toasted sandwich for a hearty lunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! It often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to settle.
Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Of course! Use what you have — this Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy recipe is very forgiving. You can swap chicken thighs for breasts, or use a different gravy mix.
Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Serve it hot over mashed potatoes or rice, with buttery biscuits on the side. Fresh herbs brighten every plate.
Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: The chicken should shred easily with a fork and smell rich and savory — golden edges aren’t necessary in a slow cooker, but tenderness is your sign.
Final Thoughts
This recipe has become my go-to when I want food that feels like a hug. It’s simple, forgiving, and fills the house with that slow-simmered aroma that makes everyone pause and come to the table. So next time you need something warm and reliable, give this Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy a try — then make it your own with a little tweak or two.
Conclusion
If you want another slow-cooker take on classic comfort food, check out this detailed Crockpot Chicken & Gravy – Plain Chicken for extra tips. For a slightly different set of measurements and notes, here’s a helpful version on Allrecipes: Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe.

Slow Cooked Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk the cream of chicken soup, both gravy mix packets, and water in the slow cooker bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides and press the seasoning in.
- Place the chicken on top of the soup mixture and turn each piece so it’s coated in the gravy mix.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 hours until tender.
- Stir before serving to mix the gravy evenly.
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