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Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe delivers a comforting, hearty dinner with minimal effort. Slow-cooked boneless, skinless chicken thighs bathe in a rich, flavorful gravy made from simple ingredients, resulting in tender, juicy meat paired perfectly with a smooth, velvety sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or family meals, it’s easy to prepare, versatile, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 46 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs to keep the dish light but flavorful.
  2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): In a hot skillet, melt butter and quickly brown the chicken thighs on each side until golden. This step locks in moisture and adds depth to the gravy.
  3. Layer Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced onions and minced garlic on top. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients to keep everything moist during cooking.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours to meld flavors and ensure the chicken is tender and juicy.
  5. Make the Gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, mix flour (or cornstarch) with heavy cream (or half-and-half) until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crock pot liquid. Cook uncovered to thicken the gravy to a creamy consistency.
  6. Final Seasoning and Serve: Add salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste. Stir gently to combine. Serve warm over your preferred side dishes.

Notes

  • Brown the chicken first for enhanced flavor and appealing texture.
  • Use fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to brighten the dish.
  • Thicken the gravy at the end for a creamy texture.
  • Cook on low heat to preserve tenderness and deepen gravy flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end as slow cooking can mellow flavors.
  • For gluten-free, replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
  • To make dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and butter with oil or dairy-free margarine.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
  • Swap chicken thighs for breasts to make the recipe leaner.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crock pot chicken, chicken and gravy, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, gluten-free chicken recipe, creamy chicken gravy