This easy slow cooker chicken breasts recipe is a lifesaver for busy days! The chicken cooks tender and juicy, while a rich homemade gravy makes it even more delicious.
I love letting my slow cooker do the work. Just toss the chicken in, add some seasoning, and let it simmer. Dinner is ready when you are! Plus, who doesn’t love a good gravy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are super convenient for this recipe. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can use thighs, which are a bit richer in flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Chicken Broth: I love using low-sodium chicken broth for better flavor control. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to swap in vegetable broth or water with a bit of seasoning.
Heavy Cream: This is optional for a creamier gravy. If you want to lighten it up, swap it with milk or a plant-based cream. Coconut milk is a fun alternative for a different twist!
Herbs: Dried thyme is great, but you can use Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs if you have them. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor! Use three times the amount as dried.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender in the Slow Cooker?
To keep your chicken juicy, cooking it on low is key. High heat cooks it faster but can dry it out, especially with breasts. Here are some tips:
- Season the chicken well to enhance flavor.
- If you brown the chicken before, it adds to both flavor and the tender texture.
- Don’t lift the lid frequently while cooking; this releases heat and can affect cooking time.
Just be patient, and you’ll have perfectly tender chicken every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Rich Homemade Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning chicken)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes of prep time and then you can let your slow cooker do the work! Cooking time is about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, depending on your slow cooker. So, get it started, and enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This will ensure every bite of chicken is full of flavor!
2. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
If you have a bit of extra time, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden. This step adds some delicious flavor but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry.
3. Arrange in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, then pour the chicken broth over the top. This broth will infuse moisture into the chicken as it cooks.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
5. Make the Gravy:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and keep it warm on a plate. Pour the cooking liquid (broth and juices) into a saucepan over medium heat, and melt the butter.
6. Thicken It Up:
Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then, slowly pour in the cooking liquid while stirring until the gravy thickens, around 3-5 minutes.
7. Add Cream for Extra Richness:
If you’d like an enriched gravy, stir in the heavy cream or milk and cook for another minute. This makes the gravy extra creamy and delicious.
8. Coat the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the gravy and coat them well before serving. This will ensure every piece is flavorful and moist!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your tender slow-cooked chicken breasts with rich, homemade gravy! It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30 minutes on high. There’s no need to thaw them first, but always check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep the chicken and gravy together for the best flavor. To reheat, just warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if the gravy thickens too much during storage.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa to soak up that rich gravy. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cook it in advance, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat and make the gravy whenever you’re ready to enjoy it. The flavors often deepen deliciously after sitting for a day!
