Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts With Gravy Recipe

Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy Recipe

A slow cooker chicken breasts with gravy that melts in your mouth and fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Home cooks know the magic of hands-off meal preparation can save precious evening time.

Tender chicken simmering in rich, velvety sauce promises comfort without complex cooking techniques.

Simple ingredients blend together effortlessly, creating a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug.

No complicated steps or fancy equipment stand between you and a delicious dinner.

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary with minimal effort.

Serving up a meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen – but really took just minutes to prepare.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy Is So Juicy and Easy

  • Effortless Comfort Cooking: Transform plain chicken breasts into a melt-in-your-mouth meal with minimal hands-on preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
  • Flavor-Packed Slow Simmering: Infuse chicken with a blend of aromatic spices and create a creamy, rich gravy that elevates the entire dish through slow, gentle cooking.
  • Versatile Serving Sensation: Enjoy the tender chicken sliced or shredded, paired with multiple base options like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making it adaptable to different taste preferences and meal styles.

Everything Needed for Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the chicken.
  • Onion Powder: Provides a mild, sweet onion taste without texture.
  • Paprika: Offers a slightly sweet, peppery warmth and beautiful color.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and helps season the meat.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a mild, sharp spiciness to the dish.
Chicken and Liquid Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and juicy in the slow cooker. Choose boneless, skinless for easy preparation.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid and helps keep the chicken moist.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess and helps thicken the gravy. Look for low-sodium options.
  • Gravy Mix: Provides extra depth of flavor and helps create a rich sauce.
  • Dried Thyme: Introduces an earthy, herbal note to the dish.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creates a creamy, smooth gravy.
  • Fresh Parsley: Brings a bright, fresh garnish and color to the finished dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy Effortlessly

Step 1: Craft Flavor Explosion

Whip up a magical seasoning blend by mixing:
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently massage this delightful spice mix all over the chicken breasts, making sure every inch gets some love.

Step 2: Build Your Creamy Gravy Base

In a bowl, create a silky smooth sauce by whisking together:
  • Chicken broth
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Gravy mix
  • Dried thyme

Blend until the mixture looks perfectly combined and dreamy.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Nestle the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker and pour your luscious gravy mixture over the top. Make sure the chicken is completely bathed in the sauce.

Cover and let the magic happen:
  • Low setting: 4-5 hours
  • High setting: 2-3 hours

Wait until the chicken is super tender and reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Transform Into Creamy Goodness

Carefully transfer the chicken to a serving platter and keep it cozy.

Stir sour cream into the cooking liquid, creating an ultra-rich, velvety gravy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice or shred the chicken according to your mood.

Drizzle the luxurious gravy all over.

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Serve alongside:
  • Fluffy mashed potatoes
  • Steamed rice
  • Soft egg noodles

Bon appétit!

Helpful Cooking Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

  • Boost Seasoning Flavor: Mix spices thoroughly and rub them generously into chicken breasts to ensure deep, even flavor penetration before slow cooking.
  • Prevent Dry Chicken: Keep chicken breasts fully submerged in liquid during cooking to maintain moisture and tenderness, creating a juicy final result.
  • Customize Gravy Consistency: Whisk sour cream slowly into the cooking liquid to create a smooth, creamy gravy without lumps or separation.
  • Meal Prep Magic: This recipe freezes wonderfully – store cooked chicken and gravy in airtight containers for quick future meals up to 3 months.
  • Dietary Adaptations: Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for vegetarian option, or use gluten-free gravy mix to make the dish celiac-friendly.

Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy Easily

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within two hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Carefully transfer chicken and gravy to freezer-safe containers, ensuring minimal air exposure. Frozen chicken maintains quality for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, add a tablespoon of broth, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warm.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Breasts with Gravy

  • Craft Creamy Mashed Potato Companion: Ladle the rich, velvety gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination that melts in your mouth. The tender chicken and smooth sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors that's pure culinary bliss.
  • Pour Crisp Chardonnay Pairing: Select a medium-bodied Chardonnay with subtle oak notes to complement the creamy chicken gravy. Its buttery undertones and slight acidity will beautifully cut through the dish's richness, elevating the entire dining experience.
  • Toss Bright Green Salad Side: Prepare a light, zesty mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty chicken and gravy. Fresh, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy main dish, creating a well-rounded meal that delights the palate.
  • Serve Crusty Herb Bread Accent: Slice a warm, crusty artisan bread with herbs to soak up the delectable gravy. The bread's crisp exterior and soft interior will perfectly capture the sauce's rich flavors, adding an extra layer of comfort to the meal.

Variations for Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

  • Herb-Infused Chicken Delight: Replace dried thyme with fresh rosemary, sage, and chopped basil for a vibrant herb-packed flavor profile. The fresh herbs will elevate the dish with bright, aromatic notes.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken: Add diced green chilies, ground cumin, and a tablespoon of chili powder to create a zesty Mexican-inspired version. Serve with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra tang.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Fusion: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, sliced kalamata olives, and dried oregano into the gravy. Swap cream of chicken soup with greek yogurt for a tangy Mediterranean twist.
  • Mushroom Cream Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker for an earthy, rich dimension. Mix in a splash of white wine to enhance the depth of the gravy's flavor.

Questions Answered About Chicken Breasts with Gravy

  • How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and prevents dry, overcooked meat.

  • Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Just add an extra 1-2 hours to the cooking time and make sure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165F (74C) before serving.

  • What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a simple homemade white sauce using flour, butter, and chicken broth. The goal is to create a creamy, flavorful base for the gravy.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken stays moist and can be easily shredded for multiple meals like sandwiches, salads, or tacos. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts With Gravy Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts With Gravy Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory slow cooker chicken breasts with gravy offer a comforting meal that melts in your mouth. Home cooks will relish this simple, hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds / 907 grams)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Liquid and Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (10.5-ounce / 298 grams) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (0.87-ounce / 25 grams) packet chicken gravy mix
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Craft a robust seasoning blend by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with this aromatic mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
  2. Nestle the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker’s base, creating a single layer. Whisk chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, gravy mix, and dried thyme in a separate bowl until the mixture transforms into a silky, uniform liquid.
  3. Carefully pour the whisked liquid over the chicken, making certain each piece is completely submerged and surrounded by the savory sauce.
  4. Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the chicken to gently simmer. On low setting, cook for 4-5 hours; alternatively, use high setting for 2-3 hours until the meat becomes fork-tender and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F (74C).
  5. Once cooked, delicately transfer the chicken to a serving platter, tenting with foil to preserve warmth. Integrate sour cream into the remaining cooking liquid, stirring until the gravy achieves a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  6. Prepare the chicken for serving by either slicing or shredding according to preference. Lavish the meat with the freshly prepared gravy, and sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
  7. Present the chicken alongside complementary sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered egg noodles, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Customize the seasoning blend by adding smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicier kick that elevates the flavor profile.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-sodium gravy mix to control salt content for health-conscious cooks.
  • Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked sections in the slow cooker.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular gravy mix with cornstarch or a gluten-free alternative to maintain the sauce’s thickness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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