Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

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Rich, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make — Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Tender chunks of chicken smothered in a savory, velvety gravy served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or rice — this is pure comfort food done right. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a no-fuss dinner to wind down your day, this dish promises warmth in every bite.

What makes this meal a standout is how effortlessly it comes together with just a few pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker. No standing over a stove, no complicated steps — just toss it in, let it simmer low and slow, and return to a house filled with the irresistible aroma of creamy, herb-infused chicken goodness. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep, weeknights, or cozy weekends in.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• It’s incredibly easy — just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
• The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it perfect for busy days.
• The flavor is rich, savory, and comforting — just like a home-cooked classic should be.
• Great for families, picky eaters, or anyone who loves cozy meals.
• Versatile enough to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or biscuits.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools:

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot): This is the star of the show. It ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to become tender while soaking up all the flavors from the gravy.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing the gravy ingredients smoothly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For trimming the chicken breasts if needed.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To serve the chicken without breaking it apart.
• Serving Bowl or Plate: Perfect for piling on mashed potatoes or rice to hold all that creamy sauce.

These tools help streamline your process and ensure everything cooks evenly, tastes amazing, and is easy to serve.

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Preparation Tips

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs — both work beautifully, but thighs offer a richer flavor. If you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before adding to the slow cooker for food safety. Don’t skip whisking the gravy ingredients together before pouring them over the chicken — this helps eliminate lumps and ensures an even consistency. Let the chicken cook on low for the most tender texture, and avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture. If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry toward the end of the cooking time.

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Ingredients for this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
• 2 packets (1 oz each) chicken gravy mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional for added depth)
• 4 oz cream cheese (for an extra creamy finish, optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for serving

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Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken gravy packets, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Whisk until smooth and fully combined. This mixture forms the base of the gravy that will slowly infuse into the chicken.

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Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer. There’s no need to brown them beforehand — the slow cooking process will make them juicy and tender.

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Step 3: Pour the Gravy Over the Chicken

Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure all pieces are coated with the mixture. This ensures every bite is flavorful and moist.

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Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. For the best texture and flavor, low and slow is recommended. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to retain heat and moisture.

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Step 5: Shred or Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked and fork-tender, use two forks to shred it into chunks or slices inside the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the gravy. If you want a richer texture, this is the point to stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy generously over mashed potatoes, white rice, or egg noodles. Top with freshly chopped parsley or a dash of black pepper if desired.

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Step 7: Optional Thickening

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and let it cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until thickened.

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Notes

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a lifesaver on busy days. You can prep everything in under 10 minutes and let the slow cooker handle the rest. The flavors deepen beautifully the longer it cooks, and it’s perfect for doubling up if you’re feeding a crowd. The gravy thickens more as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks slightly thin when it’s hot — it will settle into a rich, velvety sauce. Using cream cheese at the end is optional but adds a luxurious creaminess that takes it to the next level.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using frozen chicken straight in the slow cooker: Always thaw first to ensure safe and even cooking.
• Overcooking on high: While high setting is faster, it may dry out the chicken. Low and slow brings out the best texture.
• Not whisking the gravy mixture first: This can lead to clumps and uneven flavor distribution.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste before serving and adjust with salt or pepper if needed.
• Opening the lid frequently: Doing this releases heat and can increase cooking time.

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Storage Instructions

Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, or warm over low heat on the stove. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings without sides):

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I leave it in the slow cooker?

You can cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Leaving it beyond that may dry out the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay tender even after long cooking times.

Is cream cheese necessary?

No, it’s optional. But adding it at the end gives the dish an ultra-creamy finish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cream cheese and use a dairy-free condensed soup alternative if needed.

Can I use homemade gravy instead of packets?

Yes! If you have homemade chicken gravy, just use about 2 cups in place of the soup and packets.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave in intervals or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, it freezes very well. Store in airtight containers and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes are a favorite, but rice, noodles, or even biscuits pair perfectly too.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food with the convenience of a hands-off cooking method. It’s flavorful, family-friendly, and flexible enough for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation.

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