Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in the crockpot: Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of the crockpot. You can leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer faster cooking or easier serving.
2. Season the chicken: Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper. This enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Base

1. Combine the ingredients for the gravy: In a separate bowl, mix together the can of cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, onion soup mix (if using), chicken broth, and butter. Stir everything together until smooth. The soup will serve as the base for your gravy, while the ranch dressing mix and onion soup mix provide extra flavor and depth.
2. Pour the gravy over the chicken: Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring that the chicken is fully covered. The gravy will slowly cook down as the chicken simmers, making it even richer and more flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken & Gravy

1. Set the crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken easily shreds with a fork.
2. Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. The chicken should be so tender that it falls apart easily. Stir the shredded chicken back into the gravy, ensuring the meat is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve over your favorite side: This Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is incredibly versatile and can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The creamy, flavorful gravy pairs perfectly with any of these sides, creating a meal that is both filling and comforting.
2. Garnish: For a little freshness and color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. It adds a burst of flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

1. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used, bone-in chicken (such as thighs or drumsticks) will yield even more flavor. The bones contribute to a richer, more flavorful gravy. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.

2. Customize the Gravy

Feel free to tweak the gravy to your liking. If you want a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of chicken broth. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-sodium broth or a fat-free cream of chicken soup.

3. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

If you’d like to add some veggies to the dish, consider throwing in some carrots, potatoes, or peas in the last hour of cooking. They’ll absorb the delicious flavors of the gravy and make the meal even more satisfying.

4. Leftovers Make Great Sandwiches

If you have leftovers, this dish makes for excellent sandwiches the next day. Simply take some of the shredded chicken and gravy, and serve it on a soft roll or between two slices of bread. A sprinkle of cheese or a few pickle slices can add a nice touch!

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

1. Super Easy and Convenient

This recipe is one of the easiest meals you can make. Simply add everything to the crockpot, set it, and forget it. No need to monitor the stove or fuss with complex steps. The slow cooking process does all the work for you.

2. Comfort Food at Its Best

The creamy, savory gravy and tender chicken make this dish a classic comfort food that everyone will love. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a chilly evening.

3. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences. You can switch out the chicken for turkey or add different herbs and spices to change the flavor profile. You can also add vegetables, like peas, carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms, to make it a one-pot meal.

4. Perfect for Busy Nights

This meal is ideal for busy families or anyone who wants to have a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending much time in the kitchen. You can throw everything together in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you.

5. Leftovers Are Delicious

One of the best parts about Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the leftovers. The flavors only deepen and improve the next day, making it the perfect dish for meal prep or a quick lunch the following day. It also freezes well, so you can store extra servings for later.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Crockpot Chicken & Gravy is the epitome of comfort food—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the gravy is rich and satisfying. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces and warmth to your table.

Ready to experience the nostalgic, homestyle flavors of this comforting dish? Grab your crockpot, and whip up Grandma’s Chicken & Gravy today—you’ll have a cozy, flavorful meal with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction!