Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal that practically makes itself, this Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. Tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a luscious creamy gravy marry flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or just want to come home to a meal that’s both effortless and satisfying, this recipe has you covered. It transforms simple ingredients into a soul-soothing dish that’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding its unique touch to the overall flavor and texture. From the creamy base to the savory seasoning, every element plays a part in crafting that perfect comfort food experience.

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and easy to shred once cooked.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds that rich, creamy texture without any fuss.
  • 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix: Brings a burst of savory flavor with herbs and spices.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and enhances the savory goodness.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream: Stirred in at the end for that extra creamy, tangy richness.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil: Optional but perfect for searing the chicken to boost flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that make all the difference.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch when serving.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

First things first, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts evenly. This little step is key to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and ensure every bite is well-seasoned.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

If you have a few extra minutes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side. This step adds a beautiful golden crust and deepens the flavor, but don’t stress if you’re short on time — the crockpot does all the magic either way!

Step 3: Set Up The Crockpot

Place the seasoned or seared chicken breasts into the crockpot. This simple placement is the start of what will soon become a creamy, tasty dish perfect for any night of the week.

Step 4: Mix the Gravy Ingredients

In a bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, dry ranch seasoning, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This mixture will infuse the chicken with lots of flavor while keeping it moist and tender.

Step 5: Combine in the Crockpot

Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure every piece gets a generous coating. This ensures the chicken will be soaked in that dreamy gravy throughout the cooking process.

Step 6: Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will cook slowly, becoming fork-tender and soaking up all the flavors from the creamy gravy. You’ll know it’s ready when it can be shredded easily.

Step 7: Add the Creaminess

About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the sour cream. This final addition makes the gravy incredibly silky and rich, elevating the dish to pure comfort food bliss.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out the chicken with plenty of creamy gravy spooned over the top. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley as a pretty, fresh garnish. This meal pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.

How to Serve Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe

Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a touch of bright flavor that balances the richness of the creamy gravy perfectly. You could also try a light dusting of paprika if you want a little smoky warmth.

Side Dishes

This versatile dish invites many delicious sides. Classic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta are the ultimate partners, soaking up all that luscious gravy. Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp side salad add a fresh contrast and round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, shred the chicken and serve over buttery egg noodles, or pile it onto warm biscuits for a comforting chicken biscuit sandwich. Another idea is to layer it in a casserole with some cooked rice and cheese, then bake until bubbly. The Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe is as flexible as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and creamy gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water helps loosen the gravy if it thickens too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more juiciness and flavor to this recipe, and they cook wonderfully slow and low in the crockpot.

Do I have to sear the chicken first?

Nope! Searing is optional but it does add a richer flavor and attractive color. If you’re short on time, just skip this step and let the slow cooker do all the work.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, just substitute the cream of chicken soup for a dairy-free version, and swap sour cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

If your gravy seems a little runny, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or simmer the gravy on the stove to reduce it slightly.

Can I prepare this recipe in the morning and cook it while I’m away?

Definitely! That’s the beauty of crockpot cooking. Prep everything in the morning, set it on low, and when you return home from your busy day, a delicious meal will be waiting for you.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe is a dream come true for anyone who loves comforting, home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and flexible enough for busy weeknights or leisurely gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how effortless delicious can be!

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Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe

This Easy Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Gravy Recipe is a comforting and flavorful slow-cooked meal that requires minimal prep and delivers tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy ranch-infused gravy. Perfect for busy days, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, providing a hearty and satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)

Gravy

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Begin by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor as they cook in the crockpot.
  2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): If you have time, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds an extra layer of flavor, but you can skip it to save time.
  3. Set Up The Crockpot: Place the seasoned or seared chicken breasts in the crockpot, arranging them evenly to cook uniformly.
  4. Mix the Gravy Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, dry ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will be your delicious creamy gravy base.
  5. Combine in the Crockpot: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to coat them thoroughly with the creamy gravy.
  6. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  7. Add the Creaminess: About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the sour cream to enrich the gravy, making it smooth and creamy without curdling.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is fully cooked and the gravy is creamy, serve the chicken with generous spoonfuls of the gravy on top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, searing the chicken before slow cooking is recommended but optional for convenience.
  • Make sure to add sour cream towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
  • You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade version for a fresher taste and less sodium.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make great meal prep.
  • Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper before serving if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with gravy (approx. 1/4 recipe)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, crockpot chicken, creamy chicken gravy, easy chicken dinner, ranch chicken recipe

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