This easy Crock-Pot chicken cooks slowly to become super tender, all while soaking up a rich and creamy gravy. Perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss!
You can serve this delicious chicken over rice or mashed potatoes, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! I love how it makes my kitchen smell amazing while it cooks! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a classic choice for this dish. If you’re looking for something different, try thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds a creamy texture. If you prefer a healthier option, look for a low-fat version or use a homemade cream sauce instead!
Sour Cream: It gives a nice tang to the gravy. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great alternative.
Chicken Broth: You can substitute vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but broth adds much more flavor.
Onion Soup Mix: This seasoning mix adds depth. If you don’t have it, try combining onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
How Can I Make the Chicken Extra Flavorful?
Browning the chicken breasts in a skillet first is a fantastic step that enhances the flavor. Just heat your olive oil or butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This locks in moisture and adds a nice golden color!
- Season with salt and pepper before browning.
- Use medium-high heat to ensure good browning.
Remember to stir the creamy gravy mixture well before pouring it over the chicken in the Crock-Pot. This helps combine all those lovely flavors! Lastly, fresh parsley not only garnishes your meal but also adds a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your meal with minimal effort and lots of taste!
Easy Crock-Pot Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Gravy:
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the Crock-Pot. You can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, take your chicken breasts and lightly season them with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden color. This step is optional, but it does add extra flavor to the chicken.
3. Add to the Crock-Pot:
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the Crock-Pot. If you skipped browning, just place the seasoned chicken right into the pot.
4. Make the Creamy Gravy:
In a bowl, whisk together the dry onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, and dried thyme (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour Over Chicken:
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken in the Crock-Pot. This will keep the chicken moist and provide lots of flavor!
6. Cook:
Cover the Crock-Pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
7. Stir Before Serving:
Once done, give the gravy a stir to mix everything together. This ensures that every bite is delicious!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy chicken gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting meal.
Enjoy this delightful, hassle-free Crock-Pot chicken, perfect for any day of the week! 😋
FAQ about Easy Crock-Pot Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. It’s best to thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method—submerge sealed chicken in cold water, changing it every 30 minutes until thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream?
No worries! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use cream cheese for a richer flavor. Just remember to soften it before mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or peas to the Crock-Pot in the last 2 hours of cooking. This will make your meal even heartier and nutritious!
