This Super Easy Chicken Gravy Crockpot recipe is a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s an affordable, flavorful, and family-friendly dish that is simple to prepare but tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. The tender chicken is drenched in a creamy, savory gravy, making it the perfect meal to serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for an easy dinner, this recipe is a winner every time!
Ingredients
- 3-4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
(If you prefer thighs, they work well too. Boneless, skinless chicken is the easiest for this recipe.) - 3 Cans of Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz each)
This creates a rich base for the gravy. You can also use a mix of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a more robust flavor. - 2 Cups of Water
To thin out the soup and create the perfect consistency for the gravy. You can also use chicken broth for extra flavor. - 1 Packet of Chicken Gravy Mix
This adds depth and seasoning to the dish. You can use a regular or low-sodium packet depending on your preference. - Cooked Rice, Egg Noodles, or Mashed Potatoes
For serving. These starches perfectly soak up the delicious gravy and create a satisfying meal.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crockpot
Start by spraying your crockpot insert with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with a crockpot liner for easier cleanup. Set the crockpot to low heat.
2. Add Chicken to the Crockpot
Place your uncooked chicken breasts (or thighs) directly into the crockpot. There’s no need to trim or season them at this point—let the soup and gravy mix do the flavoring for you.
3. Mix the Gravy Base
In a separate bowl, combine:
- 3 cans of cream of chicken soup,
- 2 cups of water,
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix. Stir well to ensure the gravy mix is fully dissolved and the ingredients are smooth.
4. Pour the Gravy Over the Chicken
Pour the soup and gravy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. The liquid should cover the chicken, which will keep it moist while it cooks.
5. Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours. After this time, your chicken will be very tender and easy to shred. Be sure to check your chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Shred or Dice the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, or use a knife to dice it into chunks. Return the shredded or diced chicken back into the crockpot and stir it into the gravy to absorb all those flavors.
7. Serve Over Your Favorite Base
This dish is excellent over a variety of sides. Serve it over cooked rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes. The rich gravy pairs perfectly with any of these options, creating a comforting, filling meal.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Veggies: Add some frozen vegetables to make the dish even heartier. Frozen peas, carrots, corn, or green beans all work well. Just toss them in the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.
- Seasonings: If you like a little more flavor, feel free to add some garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or even a pinch of thyme to the gravy base before cooking. You can also add a splash of chicken broth for a deeper flavor.
- Creamier Gravy: Replace one of the cans of cream of chicken soup with a can of cream of celery soup or cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: If your family enjoys a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or stir in a small amount of hot sauce into the gravy mixture before cooking.
Storage and Leftovers
- Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra water or broth if the gravy thickens too much.
- Freezing: This recipe also freezes very well. If you’d like to make it ahead for future meals, transfer the cooled chicken and gravy mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the crockpot or on the stove. Serve over freshly cooked rice, noodles, or potatoes.
Why This Recipe is Perfect
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and creamy texture, this dish is ideal for picky eaters. It’s simple, comforting, and pairs well with the sides kids love, like rice or noodles.
- Minimal Effort: With just a few ingredients and a crockpot, you can set it and forget it. There’s no need to keep an eye on the stovetop or oven—just let the crockpot do the work.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is made with affordable ingredients, especially if you’re using leftover chicken from a rotisserie bird. It’s an economical way to feed the whole family without sacrificing flavor.
- Comforting and Hearty: There’s something about the combination of tender chicken and rich gravy that’s deeply satisfying. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a busy weeknight, this dish is perfect for providing warmth and comfort.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have in your pantry. Add different seasonings, vegetables, or even use a different base like mashed potatoes for variety.
Conclusion
This Super Easy Chicken Gravy Crockpot recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy families. It’s rich, flavorful, and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even serving at family gatherings. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or potatoes, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this delicious, budget-friendly meal that your family will request time and time again!