This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy is a true comfort food! Juicy chicken cooks slowly in a flavorful gravy that makes everything so tasty, and it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Frozen chicken can also work, just ensure you adjust the cooking time.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you need a healthier option, try homemade versions or substitutes like cream of mushroom or any other cream soup you like.
Chicken Broth: This enhances the flavor of the gravy. Low-sodium broth is my go-to to control saltiness. If you have homemade stock, that’s even better!
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt, or for a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This adds a unique flavor boost. You can make your own by mixing onion powder, garlic powder, and onion flakes if you can’t find the packet.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot can be easy, but timing is key to keeping it moist. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep the temperature low and avoid opening the lid too often—each time you peek, you lose heat.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
- Remove chicken about 30 minutes before serving to stir in the sour cream. This helps prevent overcooking and keeps it juicy.
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for finishing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it until dinnertime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out for even cooking.
2. Make the Gravy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will become the delicious gravy!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Ensure the chicken is well coated with the gravy.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked, ready to fall apart easily.
5. Final Touch Before Serving:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, carefully remove the chicken breasts and set them aside on a plate. This helps ensure they don’t overcook.
6. Add Creaminess:
Stir the sour cream into the gravy in the crockpot until it’s well combined and creamy. This will give your dish a rich flavor!
7. Enrich the Gravy:
If you like, add the butter and stir until it melts. This makes the gravy extra delicious!
8. Return the Chicken:
Place the chicken back into the crockpot to warm through in the creamy gravy for the final 30 minutes.
9. Serve and Garnish:
When everything is ready, serve the chicken with generous spoonfuls of the creamy gravy over the top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch!
10. Enjoy!
Dig in with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or rice, and savor this comforting meal. Enjoy your Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time to about 7 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthy?
Absolutely! To lighten the dish, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, and opt for low-sodium chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables to the crockpot for added nutrition!
How Can I Thicken the Gravy?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and let it heat until thickened.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
