Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting and fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish delivers tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious, savory gravy that’s both creamy and full of rich onion flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe combines simple ingredients and slow-cooking magic to create a truly irresistible dinner. Whether served over fluffy mashed potatoes or warm biscuits, this recipe never fails to bring smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe means gathering a handful of everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to build layers of flavor and a silky texture. Each component is essential to the final dish’s comforting taste and satisfying richness.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for more moisture and flavor, or breasts for a leaner option.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This serves as the flavorful base of your gravy, keeping the chicken juicy throughout the cooking process.
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix: Adds a robust onion and herb punch that forms the heart of the gravy’s savory profile.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Provides a creamy texture and depth, but you can easily make a homemade substitute for a fresher touch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savoriness and complements the onion flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Balances the richness with just the right amount of warmth.
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky note and a delicate red hue.
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional): Stirring this in at the end boosts creaminess and adds a slight tang, perfect if you want a richer gravy.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by placing your choice of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs directly into the bottom of your crockpot. This layering is key to ensuring the chicken cooks evenly while soaking up all the incredible flavors from the gravy mixture you’ll add next.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional paprika until smooth. This blend is the magic sauce for the dish, melding bright oniony notes with creamy, savory goodness.
Step 3: Pour and Cook
Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover and set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours if you’re in a bit more of a hurry. As the chicken cooks slowly, it becomes tender and infused with the wonderful gravy flavors.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. This step is what transforms the dish from simple chicken breasts or thighs into a saucy, hearty meal. Mix the shredded chicken thoroughly with the gravy for maximum flavor distribution.
Step 5: Optional Creamy Finish
For an extra indulgent touch, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream into the shredded chicken and gravy. This addition not only thickens the sauce but also adds a gentle tanginess that complements the deep onion flavors wonderfully.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a subtle freshness that perfectly balances the rich and creamy gravy.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs amazingly with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or warm buttermilk biscuits. These sides absorb the luscious gravy, making every bite a satisfying, hearty experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your shredded chicken and creamy onion gravy over buttered egg noodles or inside warm crescent rolls as a savory filling. You can even spoon it over roasted vegetables for a lighter but equally tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, sometimes tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully if you want to stash some away for a quick meal later. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep the gravy silky and avoid separation. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them an excellent choice for this recipe. They also stay tender with long cooking times in the crockpot.
Is it possible to make a homemade substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can easily make a homemade version with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth for a fresher and less processed option without sacrificing creaminess.
What if I don’t have an onion soup mix on hand?
You can substitute with a blend of finely chopped onions, dried onion flakes, onion powder, and herbs like thyme and parsley for a similar flavor profile.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, then refrigerate and start cooking in the morning. Just be sure to bring the mixture to room temperature before cooking for even results.
How thick should the gravy be?
The gravy should be creamy and moderately thick, coating the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by stirring in a cornstarch slurry and cooking on high for a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe that makes it a beloved staple for any home cook. It’s simple, hearty, and endlessly comforting, perfect for gathering loved ones around the table. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to meals for cozy nights in.
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Crockpot Chicken and Creamy Onion Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a comforting and easy slow-cooked dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts or thighs simmered in a flavorful homemade gravy made with chicken broth, onion soup mix, and cream of chicken soup. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it requires minimal preparation and cooks gently in a crockpot, resulting in juicy, shred-able chicken bathed in rich, savory gravy. Optional additions like paprika and sour cream enrich the flavor and texture, making it an ideal dish to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Gravy
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Optional
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for creamier gravy)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Ensure your crockpot is clean and ready to use. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot in an even layer.
- Mix the Gravy: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional paprika. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure the chicken is well covered.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable when done.
- Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly inside the crockpot, mixing it thoroughly into the gravy for an even distribution of flavors.
- Optional Creamy Finish: For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream at this stage and mix well until combined.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken and gravy hot, spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade version for a fresher taste and to control ingredients.
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will yield moister, more flavorful results.
- If you prefer thicker gravy, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Adding sour cream is optional but recommended for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
