Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 packet of gravy mix

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy recipe is a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:22:15.570Z

This recipe for Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy is a family favorite. The chicken cooks slowly, allowing it to absorb all the flavors of the gravy, resulting in tender, juicy thighs that are perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken thighs that fall off the bone
Rich and savory gravy that enhances the dish
Minimal prep time for maximum flavor

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be a challenge. This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy recipe makes it easy to serve a satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax after a long day.

Chicken thighs are an excellent choice for slow cooking because they remain juicy and tender. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out, thighs absorb the savory gravy and enhance the dish's overall flavor. This means you'll end up with a hearty meal that your family will love.

Easy Preparation and Cleanup

One of the best features of this recipe is the minimal prep time involved. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have everything ready to go in no time. Season the chicken, sear it briefly, and then let the slow cooker do its magic. This makes it ideal not just for busy weeknights but also for meal prepping.

Additionally, using a slow cooker means less cleanup. All you need to do is wash the skillet and the slow cooker pot, making this dish a winner in both taste and convenience. It’s an easy way to enjoy homemade comfort food without the hassle.

Customization Options

While this recipe is delicious as is, it also offers plenty of room for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to the slow cooker for a complete meal in one pot. You can also experiment with different gravy mixes or spices to suit your taste preferences.

For those who prefer a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy. This will elevate the dish and give it an exciting twist. The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to adapt to your family’s tastes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Thighs

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 packet of gravy mix

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious chicken thighs.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the chicken broth with the gravy mix and pour it over the chicken.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Once done, serve the chicken thighs with the gravy over rice or mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy, serve this dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy will soak into the sides, enhancing every bite. For a healthier option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

You may also want to pair this comforting meal with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy. A side of buttery corn or roasted Brussels sprouts can also add a delightful crunch and contrast to the tender chicken.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making the leftovers just as tasty, if not better, than the original dish.

When reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. If the gravy thickens too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts instead of thighs. They will cook similarly and provide a slightly different texture. Alternatively, for a lighter version, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but make sure to reduce the cooking time slightly.

You can also try a different type of gravy mix, such as mushroom or onion gravy, to change the flavor profile. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can provide an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time to 4-5 hours.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How do I make the gravy thicker?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy during the last hour of cooking.