Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. This easy crockpot recipe delivers tender chicken and a creamy, savory gravy that perfectly complements any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. The simplicity of preparation combined with the rich flavors makes it a standout choice for anyone craving delicious home-cooked goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of chicken broth, gravy mix, and sour cream creates a creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Meal: This recipe pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Comforting Dish: It’s the ideal meal for chilly evenings or when you want something warm and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful chicken and gravy combination.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy easier and more efficient. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken that falls apart easily.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly for a creamy gravy without lumps.
• Measuring cups/spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor in every batch you make.

Ingredients

To make Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Chicken and Gravy

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 packets chicken gravy mix
• 1 1/4 cup condensed chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 3 whole chicken breasts, boneless skinless (about a pound)
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This enhances the flavor before cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy Mixture

In the slow cooker:
1. Whisk together the water, gravy packets, condensed chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Gravy

Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the slow cooker:
1. Flip them on both sides to coat well with the gravy mixture.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover the slow cooker:
1. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred or Cut Chicken

When done:
1. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker.
2. Shred or cut it into pieces as desired.

Step 6: Finalize the Gravy

Whisk in sour cream into the gravy mixture in the slow cooker:
1. Ensure it’s smooth for serving over chicken.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy over rice or mashed potatoes for an incredible meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Base: Serve the tender chicken and gravy over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting combination.

In a Sandwich

• Easy Lunch Option: Place the shredded chicken in a soft roll, add extra gravy, and enjoy a delicious sandwich.

With Rice

• Hearty Meal: Spoon the chicken and gravy over white or brown rice for a filling dinner option.

Alongside Green Vegetables

• Fresh Contrast: Pair the dish with steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced plate full of flavors and colors.

In Tacos

• Fun Twist: Use corn tortillas to create unique tacos filled with chicken and topped with your favorite salsa.

With Biscuits

• Southern Charm: Serve the chicken and gravy alongside warm biscuits for a classic comfort food experience.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to add more spices or herbs to enhance flavor. A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can make a big difference.

• Bold cooking time: Cooking on low for 4-5 hours allows the chicken to become tender. Avoid rushing the process by cooking on high.

• Bold creaminess: For an even richer sauce, consider adding an additional half cup of sour cream at the end of cooking.

• Bold consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove some liquid before whisking in sour cream and let it simmer for a few minutes uncovered.

• Bold storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for soaking up gravy.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Fresh and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balance, making it a refreshing side choice.
5. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with savory dishes like chicken and gravy.
6. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots bring an earthy flavor that beautifully contrasts with rich gravy.
7. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with almonds add texture and elegance to your meal.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Nutritious sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using too much water: Adding excessive water can dilute the gravy’s richness. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amount for the best flavor.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Skipping the seasoning on the chicken breasts can lead to bland results. Always season well before cooking for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can make the chicken dry. Follow the recommended cook time of 4-5 hours on low for tender meat.
• Neglecting to whisk the gravy: Failing to mix the gravy ingredients thoroughly can create lumps. Make sure to whisk until smooth before adding the chicken.
• Skipping the sour cream: Omitting sour cream will result in a less creamy gravy. Don’t skip this step if you want that rich, satisfying taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes during cooking for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust spices according to your taste.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is not just a comforting dish; it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delicious flavors!