Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 4–6 hours (low) or 2.5–3.5 hours (high)
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Total Time: About 4.5–6.5 hours
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Difficulty: Very Easy
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Servings: 4
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Course: Main Course
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Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients
Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Gravy:
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or substitute homemade)
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1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
Thickening (Optional):
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2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
Garnish:
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Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
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Cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Paprika adds a touch of smokiness and beautiful color, but it’s optional.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Want to skip canned soup? Use 1 cup of homemade béchamel (butter + flour + broth + cream).
Step 3: Add to Slow Cooker
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Pour a bit of the gravy mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker (just enough to coat).
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Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer.
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Pour the remaining gravy mixture over the chicken.
Step 4: Cook
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On LOW: Cook for 4 to 6 hours
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On HIGH: Cook for 2½ to 3½ hours
The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally and is fork-tender.
Avoid overcooking! Chicken breasts can dry out if left too long, even in a slow cooker.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If the gravy is thinner than you like:
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Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Whisk the cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) into the sauce.
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Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes until thickened.
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Return chicken to the slow cooker or slice/shred and serve with gravy ladled on top.
For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or butter after thickening.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken breasts and gravy are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with all your favorite comfort sides:
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Mashed Potatoes (classic and perfect for gravy)
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Steamed Rice or wild rice pilaf
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Buttered egg noodles or pasta
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Biscuits or crusty bread to sop up every drop of gravy
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Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 670 mg |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
Nutrition will vary depending on brand of soup used and whether the optional thickener or additions like cream are included.