Introduction and Origin
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is a beloved slow-cooker meal known for its tender, flavorful chicken and rich, creamy gravy. This dish exemplifies the convenience and satisfaction of slow cooking, bringing together simple pantry ingredients to create a hearty, home-style meal. It has roots in traditional American comfort food and is cherished for its ease and warmth.
Cultural Significance
Slow-cooked meals like Chicken and Gravy have long been associated with comfort, family dinners, and southern-inspired cooking. The use of cream soups and gravy packets became widespread in mid-20th-century American kitchens, symbolizing an era of quick, reliable, and budget-conscious meals that didn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients Quantity
3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
2 packets chicken gravy mix (0.87 oz each)
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1 can chicken broth (14.5 oz)
Optional Additions
½ teaspoon onion powder or a small diced onion for extra flavor
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning for a tangy twist
A splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer texture
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or over biscuits
Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
Place the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
Mix the gravy packets, soup, and broth before pouring over the chicken to ensure a smooth sauce.
Cook on low for tender, pull-apart chicken.
Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot for easier serving and more flavor distribution.
Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Instructions
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy packets, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir well to coat with gravy.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or your choice of side.
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy is the definition of comfort food. The chicken turns fall-apart tender after slow cooking, and the savory, creamy gravy clings to every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and requires minimal effort—perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 280
Protein: 30g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy delivers maximum comfort with minimal ingredients and effort. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that fits beautifully into any weeknight rotation or cold-weather menu.
Recommendation
Serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or warm biscuits for a full, satisfying meal. Add steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to balance the richness and complete the plate.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish lighter, consider using reduced-sodium broth and soup, or substituting Greek yogurt for part of the soup. You’ll retain the creamy comfort while easing up on sodium and fat—showing that indulgent doesn’t have to mean unhealthy.