Slow Cooked Chicken & Gravy: Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something irresistibly heartwarming about slow-cooked chicken in rich, savory gravy. The kind of dish that fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and makes everyone gather around the table. Slow cooking not only tenderizes the chicken perfectly but also allows the flavors to meld, creating a luscious gravy that’s nothing short of magical. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this classic comfort food.

Ingredients

For a hearty slow-cooked chicken & gravy for 4–6 people, gather the following:

Chicken

• 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Vegetables (for flavor)

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced

Gravy

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh herbs (optional: thyme, rosemary, parsley)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub this spice blend generously over all sides of the chicken pieces.

Tip: Let the chicken sit with the rub for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Layer the Vegetables

1. Place sliced onions, carrots, and celery at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add minced garlic evenly over the vegetables.
3. Optional: sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the vegetables to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

1. Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables in a single layer if possible.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, followed by Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.
3. Add fresh herbs if using.

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on low heat for 6–7 hours, or high heat for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

Tip: Avoid lifting the lid too often to retain heat and moisture.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

1. Carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the slow cooker and set aside.
2. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan.
3. In a small bowl, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk the roux into the cooking liquid, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate the tender chicken alongside the cooked vegetables.
2. Pour the rich gravy generously over the chicken.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooked Chicken & Gravy

• Bone-in chicken ensures more flavor and juiciness.
• Vegetables at the bottom prevent burning and add natural sweetness to the gravy.
• Make-ahead option: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
• Serving suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttery biscuits for a full comfort meal.

Slow cooking chicken with gravy transforms a simple meal into a soul-soothing dish. Every bite delivers tender, juicy meat paired with a luscious, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With this step-by-step guide, you can create a slow-cooked masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut version for a “one-pot slow cooker meal” that takes even less prep but keeps all the flavor. Do you want me to do that?

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