Hearty Slow-Cooked Chicken and Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

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A soul-warming, homestyle dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying! Tender chicken slow-cooked in a rich, creamy gravy—perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. This cozy meal tastes like a Sunday dinner but takes almost no effort thanks to your slow cooker.

Description

This Hearty Slow-Cooked Chicken and Gravy recipe is all about comfort. Juicy chicken breasts (or thighs) simmer all day in a flavorful blend of cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and savory seasonings. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth chicken smothered in thick, golden gravy. It’s a family favorite—simple, hearty, and full of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients For Hearty Slow-Cooked Chicken and Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra tenderness)

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 packet chicken gravy mix (or brown gravy mix)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and gravy mix until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

  2. Layer in slow cooker: Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top.

  3. Cook:

    • On Low for 6–7 hours, or

    • On High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

  4. Shred or serve whole: Once cooked, shred the chicken in the gravy or leave it whole. Stir to combine.

  5. Serve hot: Spoon over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a deeper, earthy flavor.

  • Chicken thighs give a juicier texture than breasts.

  • Add sliced mushrooms or onions for extra depth.

  • For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Tips

  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

  • Add a splash of milk or cream at the end for a silkier gravy.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—it tastes even better the next day!

  • Freeze in portions for quick comfort meals later.

Servings

Serves 4–6 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sodium: 640mg

  • Sugar: 2g

Health Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle repair and energy.

  • Comforting yet balanced when paired with vegetables or whole grains.

  • Low in added sugar and adaptable for low-carb diets.

  • Slow-cooking helps retain nutrients and deepens flavor without extra fat.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this with frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours on low. Always ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or mushrooms cook beautifully in the gravy. Add them during the last 2 hours.

Q: What’s the best side dish?
A: Mashed potatoes, white rice, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy biscuits complement it perfectly.

Q: Can I make this without canned soup?
A: Yes! Replace with 1 cup homemade white sauce (1 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp flour + 1 cup chicken broth + a splash of milk).

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