Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is just what you need when you want a comforting, homey meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken slowly cooked in the crockpot so it’s juicy and full of flavor, all swimming in a rich, creamy gravy that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love how simple this recipe is to put together. You just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. It’s one of those meals that sounds fancy but is actually super easy, which I always appreciate when I’m busy or just don’t feel like fussing.
My favorite way to enjoy this is spooned over mashed potatoes or fluffy rice—it soaks up the gravy perfectly. It’s also great with some steamed veggies on the side for an easy, cozy dinner that everyone at the table will love. I always look forward to coming home to this kind of slow-cooked warmth at the end of the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless for easy shredding and quick cooking. You can use thighs if you want juicier meat—they stay moist even longer in the crockpot.
Onion soup mix: This adds great flavor without extra work. If you don’t have it, try a mix of dried onion powder, garlic powder, and a little beef or chicken bouillon.
Cream of chicken soup: This is key for the creamy gravy texture. For a healthier option, use low-fat cream of chicken, or make a homemade white sauce with milk and flour.
Chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth if you want to control salt. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a different flavor twist.
Cornstarch slurry: This thickens the gravy perfectly without clumps. If you’re out of cornstarch, arrowroot powder or flour mixed with water will work too.
How Do You Get Thick, Smooth Gravy in a Crockpot?
Getting gravy thick and smooth can be tricky since slow cookers hold a lot of moisture. Here’s how I make it fail-proof:
- After cooking, remove the chicken to avoid overcooking.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water first—never add cornstarch directly or it will clump.
- Stir the slurry into the hot liquid and turn the crockpot to high.
- Give it 10-15 minutes to thicken, stirring often to keep it smooth.
- If gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
This step makes all the difference, turning a simple slow cooker sauce into a rich, velvety gravy that’s perfect poured on rice or mashed potatoes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – This is the star of the show! It cooks the chicken low and slow, so it’s tender and juicy without any fuss.
- Mixing bowl – Handy for whisking together the soup mix, broth, and seasonings before pouring them into the crockpot.
- Whisk or fork – Makes it easy to mix the gravy ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups & spoons – Precise measurements help get the gravy thickness just right.
- Small bowl – Perfect for mixing the cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy.
- Serving spoon – For scooping the chicken and plenty of gravy over your rice or mashed potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat that stays tender even longer.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for a subtle earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy gravy.
- Mix in a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for a fragrant herb boost that complements the chicken well.
- Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese near the end of cooking for a richer, slightly cheesy gravy twist.
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Gravy:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 envelope (about 1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or mashed potatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in your crockpot. Prep is quick—just 10 minutes to mix and get everything going—then just let the slow cooker do its magic. Finish with a few minutes thickening the gravy before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
2. Make the Gravy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, dried parsley, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Remove the cooked chicken breasts and place them on a plate. Shred with two forks, or leave whole if you prefer.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry. Stir this into the gravy left in the crockpot. Turn the heat to high and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
6. Finish and Serve:
Return the shredded or whole chicken to the crockpot for a few minutes to heat through. Serve the chicken and plenty of that creamy gravy over cooked white rice or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in the Crockpot?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before adding them to the crockpot.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the crockpot mixture in advance and refrigerate it overnight, then cook the next day. Just be sure to add the cornstarch slurry and thicken the gravy right before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Add sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, or carrots to the crockpot at the beginning for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind they may release moisture, so adjust cooking time or liquid amounts accordingly.
