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 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 packet of gravy mix; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the comforting flavors of tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich gravy. Perfectly cooked in a slow cooker, this dish is easy to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:16:18.947Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy recipe is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing the savory flavors of the gravy. Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Savory gravy that enhances the chicken's flavor
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Mouthwatering aroma fills your kitchen

      

A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal that warms both the heart and the soul. Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy encapsulates this feeling perfectly. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich gravy creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also evokes a sense of nostalgia. Each bite transports you back to simpler times, making it a wonderful choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in chicken that is moist and infused with the essence of the ingredients. As the chicken thighs cook, they absorb the savory broth and the aromatic garlic and thyme, creating a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. This dish is a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most delightful.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can prepare it in the morning and come home to a deliciously cooked meal, making it ideal for those with hectic schedules. Additionally, this dish is perfect for meal prepping, as the leftovers taste even better the next day. Just store the remaining chicken and gravy in an airtight container for a quick lunch or dinner option.

Hosting a gathering? Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy can easily be scaled to serve a larger crowd. Just double the ingredients, and you’ll have enough to satisfy your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Savory Gravy and Flavorful Chicken

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the gravy. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it elevates the chicken to new heights. The gravy not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also serves as a delicious sauce for your sides. Imagine spooning that rich, savory gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes or a warm bed of rice—comfort food at its finest.

Moreover, the use of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. As the chicken cooks, the skin renders its fat, which helps to create a luscious sauce that clings to every piece of chicken. This perfect balance of flavors and textures makes for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup chicken broth
1 packet of gravy mix
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting the slow cooker.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your slow cooker chicken thighs with gravy:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seasoned chicken thighs on top.

Mix Gravy

In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth and gravy mix until well combined. Pour the mixture over the chicken.

Add Herbs

Sprinkle dried thyme over the top of the chicken for added flavor.

Cook

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

Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken and serve with the gravy over rice or mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked chicken thighs!

Tips for Best Results

To achieve the best results with this recipe, it’s important to choose good-quality chicken thighs. Look for thighs that are plump and have a nice layer of skin, as they will provide the best flavor and moisture during cooking. If you prefer boneless, skinless thighs, they can be used as well, but be mindful that they may require a slightly shorter cooking time.

Don’t hesitate to customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of paprika can give your gravy an added depth of flavor. Additionally, feel free to toss in some vegetables like carrots or potatoes into the slow cooker for a one-pot meal that’s packed with nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy, the possibilities are endless. For a classic approach, serve the dish over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. The gravy will soak into the sides, making each bite a delightful experience. Alternatively, consider pairing it with buttery egg noodles or even quinoa for a healthier twist.

Don't forget about garnishing! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions can add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. This simple addition not only enhances the presentation but also gives a burst of flavor that complements the savory gravy beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Gravy stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the gravy to maintain its smooth texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and gravy. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes for an easy and satisfying meal, ready in minutes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs will work, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.

→ Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Carrots and potatoes make great additions to this dish.

→ Is there a way to thicken the gravy?

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

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.