Name: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488736H24M18S
Total time: PT-488736H24M18S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning chicken); 1 ounce ranch dressing mix (1 packet); 1 ounce brown gravy mix (1 packet); 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can); 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Cooked rice or mashed potatoes as needed

Jump to Recipe

If you love comfort food that wraps you in cozy, creamy goodness, then you are going to adore this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe. It’s a simple, fuss-free dish that transforms tender chicken breasts into a luscious, savory masterpiece, perfect for any day of the week. The magic lies in that rich, smooth gravy flavored with ranch and brown gravy mixes, along with classic seasonings, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting a casual dinner, this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is how straightforward and essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role, from building flavor to creating that silky texture that makes you want seconds. Here’s what you’ll gather before you start:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base, perfect for shredding into the gravy.
1 ounce ranch dressing mix (1 packet): Adds a herby, tangy punch that brightens the dish.
1 ounce brown gravy mix (1 packet): Provides that classic savory backbone and helps thicken the sauce.
10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can): Creates the creamy, velvety texture that makes this recipe feel indulgent.
1 cup chicken broth: Offers moisture and deepens the overall flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that subtle savory warmth in the background.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory layers with gentle sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the creaminess.
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): For browning the chicken, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Cooked rice or mashed potatoes: The perfect base to soak up all that delicious Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Brown the Chicken (Optional but Worth It)

Heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, you’ll sear the chicken breasts just until they develop a light golden crust, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This step isn’t mandatory, but it adds a wonderful layer of flavor that makes the end result even more irresistible.

Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot

Place your browned or raw chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. This simple move gets your main ingredient ready to soak up all the wonderful flavors you’re about to add.

Step 3: Whisk Your Flavorful Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and perfectly blended. This rich mixture is going to become the luxurious gravy that makes the dish sing.

Step 4: Pour and Coat

Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, making sure every piece is generously covered. This helps the chicken absorb all those tasty seasonings and ensures your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is flavorful in every bite.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook the chicken on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender enough to shred easily with two forks — that’s the soft, comforting texture you’re after with Crockpot Chicken and Gravy.

Step 6: Shred and Stir

Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot and stir it into the gravy. This step melds the chicken and sauce together so every forkful is packed with creamy, savory goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy hot, ladled generously over fluffy cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The starch of your choice will soak up all that flavorful sauce, making every meal feel like a warm hug.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives on top gives this dish a pop of color and a fresh herbal bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy gravy. A little cracked black pepper on top also enhances the rustic look and flavor.

Side Dishes

Classic sides like steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad bring brightness and texture to the table, balancing out the hearty richness of the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy. These simple veggies make the meal feel complete and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy over buttery biscuits or inside puff pastry shells to turn it into a comforting pot pie-style dish. You could also spoon it over buttered egg noodles or even creamy polenta for a unique flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Crockpot Chicken and Gravy into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy its comforting flavors again.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully! Place cooled Crockpot Chicken and Gravy in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious taste or texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth. If thawed from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then reheat thoroughly. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive the creamy sauce if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, which can make your Crockpot Chicken and Gravy even more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?

Browning is optional but highly recommended. It adds a richer flavor and improves the texture of the chicken, making your final dish even more delicious.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version and ensure any broth or seasoning mixes are free from dairy. This way, you still get that creamy consistency without dairy ingredients.

What can I do if the gravy is too thick or too thin?

If the gravy is too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and add it gradually to the crockpot while cooking on high, stirring until it thickens.

Can I prepare this dish in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes with a natural pressure release. This cuts down cooking time but still delivers that comforting Crockpot Chicken and Gravy taste.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is one of those treasured dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Its ease and incredible flavor make it a go-to for busy days and cozy nights alike. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again — so go ahead and give it a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you!

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 25 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (on high) to 6 hours 10 minutes (on low)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This comforting Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy ranch-infused gravy. Easy to prepare and perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes, it’s a delicious and hearty meal that requires minimal effort.

Instructions

Sear the Chicken (Optional): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned to enhance flavor.
Place Chicken in Crockpot: Arrange the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot evenly.
Prepare Gravy Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour Gravy Over Chicken: Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are well coated.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the gravy until well combined.
Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and gravy over warm cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Notes

For added flavor, searing the chicken before slow cooking is recommended but optional.
Adjust seasoning in the gravy according to your taste preference.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This recipe can be doubled to feed a larger crowd using a suitably sized crockpot.
For a thicker gravy, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking on high.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-6 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American