Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this country gravy chicken will become a family favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Chicken, gravy mix, soup, water.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Built-in gravy. Rich, creamy, and peppery.
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Crowd-pleasing. Tender chicken and savory gravy.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken and pantry staples are inexpensive.
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Versatile. Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Servings: 4 to 6
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 packet country gravy mix
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
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1 cup water
Ingredient Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use 4 chicken breasts of similar size so they cook evenly. If your chicken breasts are very thick, cut them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier result.
Country gravy mix: One standard packet of country gravy mix. Country gravy is typically white, creamy, and peppery. Do not use brown gravy mix, which has a different flavor.
Condensed cream of chicken soup: Use the standard 10.5-ounce can. Do not add water. The condensed soup is meant to be used as is. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be substituted.
Water: Just 1 cup of water. This thins the gravy mixture and creates the cooking liquid.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly coat the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the country gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and water until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Gravy
Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. The chicken is ready when it is fully cooked and very tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the chicken hot with plenty of gravy spooned over the top.
How to Serve Country Gravy Chicken
This creamy, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy is perfect over mashed potatoes.
Over Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the gravy beautifully.
Over Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles catch the gravy perfectly.
With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and balance.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up extra gravy.
Variations & Tips
Make It With Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier.
Make It With Mushroom Soup: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
Make It With Celery Soup: Use cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
Make It With Onion: Add 1 sliced onion to the slow cooker.
Make It With Garlic: Add 3 to 4 cloves of minced garlic.
Make It With Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms.
Make It With Herbs: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or parsley.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free country gravy mix and gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Make It in the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not add extra liquid. The chicken releases moisture as it cooks. Adding more liquid will thin the gravy.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. Each time you remove the lid, heat escapes and you add 15 to 20 minutes to the cook time.
Check the chicken temperature. Chicken breasts can go from perfectly cooked to dry in minutes. Use a meat thermometer.
Shred the chicken for a different texture. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
Thicken the gravy if needed. Remove the lid and cook on HIGH for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes. Add 1 to 2 hours to the cook time on LOW. Do not thaw first.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes. Bone-in chicken breasts or thighs work well. Add 30 to 60 minutes to the cook time.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes. Cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. However, LOW is preferred for more tender chicken.
Can I double this recipe?
Only if your slow cooker is at least 7 quarts. Do not fill more than two-thirds full.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Place the chicken and gravy in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my gravy too thin?
The chicken released more moisture than expected. Let the dish rest for 10 to 15 minutes. The gravy will thicken as it cools. You can also stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water.
Why is my gravy too thick?
Stir in warm chicken broth or water, one tablespoon at a time.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes. Add sliced mushrooms, onions, or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
Can I use a different gravy mix?
Country gravy mix is recommended. Brown gravy mix will have a different flavor.
The Beauty of Simple Gravy
There is something deeply comforting about a dish with a rich, creamy gravy. It is the kind of food that feels like a hug. It is the kind of food that makes you want to sit down and savor every bite.
This country gravy chicken is a perfect example. The chicken becomes tender. The gravy is thick and peppery. The whole thing comes together with almost no effort.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep gravy mix and soup in your pantry. Keep water in your tap. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 2 1/2–3 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
Yield: 4 to 6 servings