Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. If you’re using chicken breasts, it’s a good idea to trim any excess fat, but otherwise, no need to worry about cutting the chicken into smaller pieces; it will shred easily once cooked.
2. Make the Gravy Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, onion soup mix, garlic powder, onion powder, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Stir until well combined.
3. Add to the Slow Cooker:
   • Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon to make sure the chicken is evenly covered with the sauce. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, easily shredding with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring to coat it in the creamy gravy.
6. Make it Extra Creamy (Optional):
   • For a richer, more decadent gravy, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of creaminess that makes the dish even more comforting.
7. Serve:
   • Spoon the creamy chicken and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple and Easy: The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can have a meal that tastes like you’ve spent all day cooking.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of ranch seasoning, onion soup mix, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich, velvety gravy that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Versatile: You can serve this dish in so many ways — over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up the gravy. It’s an easy meal to pair with any side dishes you love.
• Great for Meal Prep: This is an ideal recipe for meal prepping. The leftovers are just as delicious and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a future meal.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy:

• Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer, more flavorful dish, use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. They have more fat and flavor than chicken breasts, which makes the gravy even more delicious.
• Add Veggies: If you want to sneak in some vegetables, consider adding some carrots, onions, or peas to the slow cooker along with the chicken and gravy mixture. They’ll cook perfectly in the slow heat and add extra nutrients to the meal.
• Adjust Consistency: If you like a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of chicken broth, or let the soup cook for a bit longer with the lid off to thicken naturally. If it’s too thick, add more chicken broth or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Spice it Up: For a little extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture. It’ll add a subtle heat that balances the richness of the sauce.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Gravy is a comforting, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you need to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Tender chicken, a creamy, flavorful gravy, and endless serving options make this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping a meal for a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and let the slow cooker do the work for you — all you need to do is enjoy!