There are some meals that just wrap you in a warm, comforting embrace, and for us, that’s often a hearty bowl of **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy**. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, creamy, savory gravy, slow-cooked to perfection until it’s falling apart and bursting with flavor. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, a promise of warmth on a chilly evening, and a foolproof way to get a delicious, hearty meal on the table with minimal effort. This **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** recipe is designed for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or any time you crave a dish that feeds the soul as much as it fills the stomach. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers maximum flavor with hardly any fuss. Get ready to transform humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe
This **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** isn’t just another dinner; it’s an experience. First and foremost, let’s talk about the taste. The combination of savory chicken, deeply flavorful brown gravy, and the creamy richness from the condensed soups creates a symphony of flavors that is truly irresistible. Each bite offers tender, moist chicken that has absorbed all the aromatic goodness of the gravy, ensuring not a single piece is dry or bland. The onion and garlic powders, simple as they are, elevate the entire dish, adding a subtle depth that makes the gravy incredibly complex and inviting. It’s the kind of flavor profile that reminds you of homemade cooking, a comforting hug in a bowl that satisfies every craving for warmth and satiety.
Beyond the incredible taste, the texture of this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** is pure perfection. The chicken, whether you choose breasts or thighs, cooks down until it’s unbelievably tender – so much so that it practically shreds itself with just two forks. This creates a delightful contrast with the thick, velvety smooth gravy. After the cornstarch slurry works its magic, the gravy transforms into a luxurious, clingy sauce that coats every piece of chicken and whatever starchy side you choose to serve it with. It’s never watery or thin; it’s consistently rich and luscious, exactly what you want in a classic gravy.
Moreover, the aroma that fills your home as this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** simmers away is a meal in itself. It’s the scent of comfort, of a home-cooked dinner without the usual fuss. That enticing fragrance builds anticipation for the delicious meal to come, making the wait almost as enjoyable as the eating itself. This dish evokes a sense of nostalgia for many, reminiscent of grandmas’ kitchens and cozy family dinners. It’s a dish that genuinely makes people feel good, from the first intoxicating smell to the last satisfying spoonful. It’s incredibly versatile too, pairing beautifully with so many classic side dishes, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to various tastes and dietary preferences. The consistent rave reviews this recipe receives are a testament to its universal appeal and undeniable deliciousness.
Why You Should Try This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
If you’re on the fence about trying this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** recipe, let us give you several compelling reasons why it should be your next go-to meal. The primary reason is its unparalleled convenience. The “slow cooker” in the name isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the core of its genius. This is the epitome of a “set it and forget it” meal. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning or early afternoon, you can assemble all the ingredients, switch on your slow cooker, and walk away. There’s no constant stirring, no worrying about burning, and no last-minute scrambling. You come home to the delightful aroma of a perfectly cooked, hot meal ready to be enjoyed. This hands-off approach is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when time is scarce, or for relaxed weekends when you’d rather spend time with family than slave over a hot stove.
Another significant benefit is its incredible versatility and adaptability. This **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** serves as an excellent base that can be customized to your family’s preferences. While it shines brightly over creamy mashed potatoes, it’s equally fantastic served with fluffy white rice, hearty egg noodles, or even roasted vegetables. You can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking, add a touch of herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or even toss in some frozen peas or carrots during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal in one pot. This adaptability means it rarely feels like you’re eating the same thing twice, even though the base recipe remains consistent.
Furthermore, this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** is exceptionally budget-friendly. Chicken breasts or thighs are often economical protein sources, and the other ingredients are common pantry staples like condensed soups, gravy mix, and basic spices. There’s no need for expensive cuts of meat or exotic ingredients, making this a fantastic option for feeding a family without breaking the bank. It’s also an excellent meal for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and enjoy leftovers for several days, which tend to taste even better as the flavors meld and deepen over time. This not only saves money but also time during subsequent meals. The minimal cleanup is another hidden gem of this recipe; with only one pot to wash (the slow cooker insert), your post-dinner duties are drastically reduced, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy the evening. It’s a reliable, comforting, and incredibly practical dish that truly delivers on its promise of deliciousness and ease.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
To create this delectable **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy**, you’ll need a simple array of ingredients, most of which are likely already in your pantry. The beauty of this dish lies in its use of readily available items to produce an extraordinary flavor.
Essential Ingredients:
* **2-3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs:** This is the star of our **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy**. Boneless and skinless options are preferred for their lean protein content and ease of shredding. Breasts will yield leaner, white meat, while thighs will offer a richer, more tender dark meat. Choose what your family prefers, or even a mix for variety. This amount is ideal for feeding 4-6 people generously.
* **1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup:** This soup forms the creamy, savory foundation of our gravy. It provides a rich umami base and contributes significantly to the overall smooth texture. Make sure it’s condensed, not ready-to-serve.
* **1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (optional, but adds depth):** While optional, we highly recommend including this! The mushroom soup adds an incredible layer of earthy, savory depth that truly elevates the gravy, making your **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** even more robust and flavorful. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit it or use another can of cream of chicken soup for a slightly milder flavor profile.
* **1 packet (0.87 ounce) brown gravy mix (dry powder):** This is the secret weapon for quick and easy gravy. It provides that classic, rich brown gravy flavor without needing to make a roux from scratch. Look for common brands in the gravy or seasoning aisle.
* **1 cup chicken broth or water:** This liquid helps to thin out the condensed soups and gravy mix to the perfect consistency for slow cooking, ensuring the chicken is adequately submerged and cooks evenly. Chicken broth will add more flavor than water.
* **1 teaspoon onion powder:** A pantry staple that provides a subtle, sweet onion flavor without the texture of fresh onion pieces. It blends seamlessly into the gravy.
* **½ teaspoon garlic powder:** Another essential aromatic that complements the onion powder beautifully, adding a foundational savory note.
* **½ teaspoon black pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper is always best for a more pungent flavor, but pre-ground works perfectly fine to add a touch of spice and warmth.
* **¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste):** Start with this amount and adjust at the end. Remember that condensed soups and gravy mixes often contain sodium, so it’s always better to add less and adjust later.
* **2 tablespoons cornstarch:** This is crucial for thickening the gravy at the end of the cooking process, giving it that luxurious, clingy consistency.
* **¼ cup cold water (for cornstarch slurry):** Cold water is essential for mixing with cornstarch to create a smooth, lump-free slurry. Using hot water will cause the cornstarch to clump.
* **Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional):** A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness, making your **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** more appealing, especially for serving guests.
Necessary Utensils for Slow Cooker Success:
* **Slow Cooker (Crockpot):** This is, quite obviously, the star appliance for our **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy**. A 6-quart oval slow cooker is ideal for the amount of chicken and liquid specified, allowing the chicken to lie in a single layer. Make sure your slow cooker is clean and in good working order.
* **Medium Mixing Bowl:** You’ll need this to whisk together the creamy soup and gravy mixture before pouring it over the chicken. A bowl with a good pouring lip is a bonus.
* **Whisk:** Essential for thoroughly combining the condensed soups, gravy mix, and seasonings, ensuring a smooth, lump-free sauce base. A good whisk also comes in handy for making the cornstarch slurry.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** Accurate measurements are key to consistent results, especially for the spices and the cornstarch slurry.
* **Tongs or Slotted Spoon:** Useful for carefully removing the cooked chicken from the hot liquid in the slow cooker.
* **Cutting Board:** A clean cutting board is necessary for transferring the cooked chicken and shredding it. Choose one that’s easy to clean.
* **Two Forks:** The simplest and most effective tool for shredding tender, slow-cooked chicken. You’ll be amazed at how easily it pulls apart.
* **Small Bowl:** Specifically for preparing the cornstarch slurry. Using a separate, small bowl ensures you can whisk the cornstarch and water perfectly before adding it to the main dish.
* **Serving Spoon/Ladle:** For dishing out your delicious **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** over your chosen sides.
Having these ingredients and tools ready will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, leading to a perfect batch of **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** every time.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Crafting this comforting **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** is remarkably straightforward, broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal hands-on time, allowing your slow cooker to do most of the heavy lifting.
1. **Prepare the Chicken Base:**
* **Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker pot in a single layer.** Laying them flat ensures even cooking. If you have more chicken than can fit in a single layer, you might need to use a larger slow cooker or layer them slightly, making sure they are still mostly submerged in the sauce later. This initial step is critical for setting up the foundation of your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy`.
2. **Whisk Together the Creamy Gravy Mixture:**
* **In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup (if using), dry brown gravy mix, chicken broth or water, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined and smooth.** Take your time with this step to ensure there are no lumps from the dry gravy mix or clumps from the condensed soups. A smooth mixture will result in a velvety gravy later. This concoction is what gives your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy` its signature flavor.
* *Practical Tip:* If your condensed soups are particularly thick, you might find it easier to initially combine them with a small amount of the chicken broth to loosen them up before adding the dry ingredients.
3. **Combine Chicken and Gravy:**
* **Pour the prepared soup and gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered by the liquid.** This ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the gravy. Don’t worry if a small portion of the chicken isn’t fully submerged; the steam generated during cooking will help cook it.
4. **Slow Cook to Perfection:**
* **Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.** The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model and the thickness of your chicken. Low and slow cooking generally yields more tender results. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety, but the “easily shreds” test is usually sufficient for doneness. This is where the magic truly happens for your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy`, transforming simple ingredients into a tender, flavorful meal.
5. **Shred the Chicken:**
* **Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a clean cutting board.** Use tongs or a slotted spoon to avoid splashing the hot gravy.
* **Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.** It should be incredibly tender and pull apart with very little effort.
* **Alternatively, you can leave the chicken breasts whole if preferred.** This is a great option if you plan to serve the chicken as a whole fillet with gravy poured over, rather than mixed into the sauce.
* **Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.** Stir it gently to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated in the savory gravy.
6. **Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry:**
* **In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and ¼ cup of cold water until a smooth slurry forms, ensuring there are no lumps.** This is a critical step for achieving a thick, luxurious gravy. Using cold water prevents the cornstarch from clumping immediately.
* *Cooking Trick:* Always use cold water for cornstarch slurries. Hot water will cause the starch to gelatinize too quickly, forming undesirable lumps.
7. **Thicken the Gravy:**
* **Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the chicken and gravy mixture.**
* **Stir well to combine.** Make sure the slurry is evenly distributed throughout the gravy.
* **Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.** The gravy will visibly thicken as it heats. Keep an eye on it and stir every 5-10 minutes to ensure even thickening and prevent the bottom from sticking. This step is what turns the liquid into a rich, luscious sauce for your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy`.
8. **Final Seasoning Adjustment:**
* **Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if necessary.** This is your chance to add more salt, pepper, or even a dash more onion or garlic powder if you feel it needs it. Remember, personal preference is key!
9. **Serve and Garnish:**
* **Serve the slow cooker chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables.** The creamy gravy is perfect for soaking into starchy sides.
* **Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.** A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the dish.
Following these detailed steps will ensure you create a fantastic **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your minimal effort!
Tips and Variations for Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
This **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile, offering plenty of room for customization and adaptation. Here are some tips to enhance your experience and variations to keep things interesting:
Ingredient Alternatives and Swaps:
* **Chicken Options:** While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are recommended for their ease, you can certainly use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for richer flavor. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding. Turkey breast can also be a wonderful substitute, especially around holidays. For an even heartier meal, consider adding cubed pork loin alongside the chicken.
* **Condensed Soups:** If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can simply use two cans of cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, for a slightly different flavor profile, try cream of celery soup or even a “healthy request” version of the cream soups for a lower sodium option. Just be mindful of sodium content if using multiple cans.
* **Gravy Mix:** Beyond brown gravy, you could experiment with a roasted chicken gravy mix or even a beef gravy mix for a deeper, richer taste in your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy`.
* **Broth Flavor:** Instead of plain chicken broth, consider using vegetable broth or even beef broth to alter the underlying flavor notes of your gravy.
* **Adding Vegetables:** For a more complete one-pot meal, stir in some frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots during the last hour of cooking. Diced potatoes or sweet potatoes can also be added at the beginning, ensuring they cook down and absorb the delicious gravy.
* **Herbs and Spices:** Enhance the flavor of your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy` by adding a pinch of dried thyme, rosemary, or sage along with the onion and garlic powder. A bay leaf could also be added during the long cooking process and removed before serving. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add an extra layer of umami.
Dietary Adaptations:
* **Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy:** Ensure your brown gravy mix is gluten-free (many brands offer this option). For thickening, use gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Always double-check the labels on condensed soups, as some may contain gluten-containing thickeners.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** This recipe relies heavily on condensed cream soups. To make it dairy-free, you would need to use dairy-free condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup alternatives, which are becoming more widely available. You might also need to use a plant-based milk (like unsweetened almond or soy milk) mixed with vegetable broth if adapting the sauce from scratch. This would significantly change the core recipe.
* **Lower Sodium:** Opt for low-sodium condensed soups and low-sodium chicken broth. Reduce or omit the added salt, and taste at the end to adjust. The gravy mix itself contains sodium, so this will be the primary challenge.
Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes:
* **Gravy Too Thin?** If, after the initial 15-30 minutes with the cornstarch slurry, your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can create a second, smaller cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it in. Cook for another 10-15 minutes on high, stirring occasionally, until desired thickness is reached.
* **Gravy Too Thick?** If your gravy ends up too thick, simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency.
* **Lumpy Gravy:** The key to avoiding lumps is ensuring your cornstarch slurry is perfectly smooth *before* adding it to the slow cooker. Also, stir the gravy thoroughly once the slurry is added to distribute it evenly and prevent starch from clumping at the bottom.
* **Dry Chicken:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can sometimes dry out if overcooked. If you’re concerned, use bone-in, skin-on chicken (which stays moister) or opt for chicken thighs. Ensure your slow cooker isn’t running too hot. The gravy mixture helps keep the chicken moist, so ensure it’s mostly submerged.
* **Enhancing Flavor:** Don’t skip the onion and garlic powder; they truly make a difference. For a deeper, richer flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts lightly in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker (though this defeats the “minimal effort” aspect slightly). A dash of dried herbs or a pinch of smoked paprika can also add complexity to your `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy`.
By keeping these tips and variations in mind, you can customize your **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** to perfectly suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it an even more versatile and beloved dish in your cooking repertoire.
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
While it’s difficult to provide exact nutritional values without a precise recipe calculation based on specific brands and serving sizes, we can discuss the general nutritional profile and benefits of a typical serving of **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy**. This dish is undeniably a comfort food, often associated with hearty, satisfying meals.
General Nutritional Overview (Estimates per Serving):
* **Calories:** A serving of **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** will typically range from 350-550 calories, depending on the portion size, whether chicken breasts or thighs are used (thighs are higher in fat), and what it’s served with (mashed potatoes, rice, etc., will add significantly to the calorie count).
* **Protein:** This dish is an excellent source of protein, primarily from the chicken. A single serving could provide anywhere from 30-45 grams of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily function.
* **Fats:** The fat content will vary. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs contribute more fat. The condensed soups also contribute fats. Expect anywhere from 15-30 grams of fat per serving, with saturated fats being a portion of this due to the creamy nature of the dish. Choosing low-fat or “healthy request” soups can reduce this.
* **Carbohydrates:** The carbohydrate content comes mainly from the condensed soups, gravy mix, and the cornstarch used for thickening. A typical serving might contain 15-25 grams of carbohydrates. This increases significantly when served over starchy sides like mashed potatoes or noodles.
* **Sodium:** This is a component to be mindful of. Condensed soups and gravy mixes are often high in sodium. A serving can contain 800-1200 mg or more. Using low-sodium versions of soups and broth, and being cautious with added salt, can help manage this.
Benefits of Key Ingredients:
* **Chicken (Breasts/Thighs):**
* **High-Quality Protein:** Chicken is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for the body. This is vital for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function.
* **Lean Source:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are particularly lean, making them a good choice for those monitoring fat intake.
* **Vitamins and Minerals:** Chicken provides essential B vitamins (Niacin, B6, B12), which are important for energy metabolism and brain function. It also offers minerals like phosphorus and selenium.
* **Condensed Soups (Cream of Chicken/Mushroom):** While they contribute to sodium and fat, they offer convenience and a creamy texture. They can also contain small amounts of beneficial nutrients from their base ingredients.
* **Onion and Garlic Powder:** These aren’t just for flavor! Onions and garlic contain compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are excellent ways to add flavor without extra calories or unhealthy fats.
* **Chicken Broth:** If using low-sodium broth, it adds liquid and flavor without significant calories, and can contribute to hydration.
Considerations for a Balanced Diet:
While **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** is a delicious comfort food, it’s beneficial to pair it with nutritious sides to create a well-rounded meal. Serving it with a generous portion of steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, a fresh side salad, or whole-grain rice can balance the meal by adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Opting for homemade mashed potatoes with skim milk instead of butter can also reduce fat content. For those managing sodium intake, low-sodium ingredients are key.
Ultimately, this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** provides a satisfying, protein-rich meal. Enjoyed in moderation and paired with healthy sides, it can certainly fit into a balanced diet, offering a comforting and flavorful option for dinner.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in my Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe?
How can I make my slow cooker chicken and gravy thicker?
What are the best side dishes to serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
Can I prepare Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy ahead of time?
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy?
Is this Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy recipe kid-friendly?
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort with Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
And there you have it! Our journey through the creation of the most comforting, effortless, and utterly delicious **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** has come to an end. We’ve explored why this recipe is not just a meal, but a warm embrace on a plate, delivering incredible flavor, tender chicken, and a rich, velvety gravy that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its unmatched convenience, allowing you to set it and forget it, makes it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, freeing up your time for what truly matters. The versatility of this **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** also means you can easily adapt it to your family’s preferences, making it a recurring favorite without ever feeling repetitive.
Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe for **Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy** is guaranteed to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s proof that you don’t need complex techniques or exotic ingredients to create something truly spectacular and deeply satisfying. This dish brings warmth, flavor, and a sense of effortless comfort to any table.
We sincerely hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the magic of `Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy` for yourself. Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with us! For more delightful and easy recipes, make sure to explore our collection of Ovia Recipes. You might also love our Mediterranean Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Artichokes, and Capers for a different chicken experience, or perhaps our Easy Taco Casserole for another family-friendly dinner. Find more inspiration and connect with us on Pinterest at Ovia Recipes Pinterest. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup 10.5 ounce
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup 10.5 ounce, optional, but adds depth
- 1 packet brown gravy mix 0.87 ounce, dry powder
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
For Thickening
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup cold water
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Preparation & Initial Cooking
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker pot in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup (if using), dry brown gravy mix, chicken broth or water, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the prepared soup and gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Shredding and Thickening
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a clean cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can leave the chicken breasts whole if preferred. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and ¼ cup of cold water until a smooth slurry forms, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the chicken and gravy mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving
- Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the slow cooker chicken and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
