Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with deliciously comforting flavors. The chicken becomes tender and juicy as it cooks, absorbing the savory notes of ranch seasoning and cream of chicken soup. The gravy that forms is thick, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Plus, with the option to add butter for extra richness, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a one-pot meal that doesn’t require much effort, making it ideal for anyone looking for a hassle-free dinner that tastes like it took hours to make.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Combine the Sauce:
   In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and optional butter until well combined.
3. Slow Cook the Chicken:
   Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
   Once the chicken is cooked, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir the chicken into the gravy to combine.
6. Serve:
   Serve the shredded chicken with the gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-7 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
• Total Time: 3-7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For added flavor and nutrition, you can toss in some vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or even mushrooms. They’ll cook along with the chicken, making the dish even heartier.
• Spicy variation: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Use different soups: You can experiment with different types of soup for the base, like cream of mushroom or cream of celery, to change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage:
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to store the chicken and gravy separately for the best texture upon reheating.
• Reheating:
  To reheat, warm the chicken and gravy on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened too much, you can add a bit of chicken broth to thin it out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

2. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Bone-in chicken will work, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. Is it necessary to add butter to the gravy?

No, the butter is optional. It adds richness to the gravy, but the recipe will still turn out flavorful without it.

4. Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade ranch seasoning, use 1-2 tablespoons of your own mix.

5. How do I thicken the gravy?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

6. Can I use other types of broth, such as vegetable or beef?

Chicken broth is recommended for this recipe, but you can substitute with vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lighter option.

7. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this in an Instant Pot. Set it to the “Poultry” setting for 20-25 minutes on high pressure, then use the quick release. Shred the chicken and mix with the gravy before serving.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Since you’re slow cooking the chicken, it will stay moist. Just be sure not to overcook it by checking the internal temperature to ensure it doesn’t exceed 165°F.

9. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and season the chicken the night before. Just place everything in the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook.

10. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. It’s also delicious with biscuits or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy is an easy, comforting dish that is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal with minimal effort. Tender chicken, creamy gravy, and endless side dish possibilities make this a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience.