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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Recipe with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

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A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs in savory gravy, served with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of sauce. Perfect for busy days and cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (boneless optional)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. (5 minutes)
  2. Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon butter. Brown chicken thighs skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and sear other side for 2 minutes. (10 minutes)
  3. Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Nestle the chicken thighs on top. Pour chicken broth over everything. (5 minutes)
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, remove chicken and keep warm. Whisk flour with cold water to make slurry. Stir slurry into slow cooker liquid. Add remaining butter and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Whisk in cream if using. Adjust salt and pepper. (20-30 minutes)
  6. While gravy thickens, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  7. Mash potatoes with butter, warmed milk, and sour cream if using. Season with salt and pepper. (25-30 minutes)
  8. Serve mashed potatoes topped with a chicken thigh and ladle warm gravy over all. (5 minutes)

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use coconut milk or oat cream and dairy-free butter substitutes. Searing chicken is optional but adds flavor. Adjust gravy thickness by adding broth or simmering longer. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for brightness. Leftovers keep up to 3 days refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, chicken and gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy dinner, slow cooker recipe, family meal