Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
This Crockpot Chicken and Gravy recipe offers a warm and comforting meal featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked slowly in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for cozy family dinners or easy weeknight meals, it combines simple ingredients with hands-off slow cooking for a hearty, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken and Aromatics
- 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Base for Gravy
- 2 to 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
Seasonings and Herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or dried)
- Prepare the chicken and aromatics: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Chop the onions and mince the garlic to build the flavor base.
- Layer ingredients in the crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot first, then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Slow cook for tender perfection: Cover and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and has absorbed flavorful aromas.
- Make the gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in some of the crockpot liquid to blend smoothly and thicken the gravy.
- Combine and finish: Pour the thickened gravy back into the crockpot. Stir in a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess. Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to allow the gravy to thicken further and the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Brown the chicken in a hot pan before slow cooking for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Always make the roux separately to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for brighter aroma and taste.
- Adjust the amount of broth or cook uncovered longer for a thicker gravy.
- Add vegetables such as carrots or celery early in the cooking process for added flavor depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken, chicken and gravy, slow cooker chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, creamy gravy, slow cooker recipe