Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners. These tender, juicy chicken chops are coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that melts in your mouth — all effortlessly made in your slow cooker.
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving that Southern-style chicken dinner, but without the fuss. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to make chicken, this Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops recipe will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from choosing the best ingredients to tips for serving. We’ll also cover troubleshooting common mistakes to help you perfect this dish every time.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting with crockpot chicken recipes, you’ll find all the steps you need to make your Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops a hit!
What Are Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops?
What Makes Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops Special?
When you hear the term Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops, your mind probably drifts to the idea of a rich, hearty sauce enveloping tender chicken, right? But when it’s cooked in a Crock Pot, it’s taken to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops slow-cooked to perfection, marinated in a savory blend of spices, broth, and cream, creating an irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The beauty of using a Crock Pot is that it allows all the flavors to meld together, making the chicken more tender and juicy than any stovetop method could ever manage. These Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops are the ultimate comfort food, making your meal an unforgettable experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First of all, it’s crazy easy! You just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and forget it. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze. No need to slave over the stove all day — let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you go about your day. The result? A comforting, homestyle dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Check out other slow cooker recipes like Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Spaghetti, where tender chicken melds with alfredo and garlic for another no-fuss, flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients & Prep
Core Ingredients for Smothered Chicken Chops in a Crock Pot
Before you dive into this delicious dish, it’s crucial to gather the right ingredients. The beauty of Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops lies in its simplicity — you don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients to make it extraordinary. Here’s a basic shopping list:
Chicken Chops – While you can use any cut of chicken, bone-in chicken chops work best for this dish. The bone keeps the chicken moist and adds extra flavor. If you prefer boneless, that works too!
Cream of Mushroom Soup – This is the base of your sauce. It adds a creamy richness and flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. You could also use cream of chicken or even cream of celery for variation. For more tips on using different kinds of canned soups, check out this article on Campbell’s Classic Chicken Noodle Soup link to Campbell’s Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe.
Chicken Broth – This adds a savory depth to the sauce and ensures the chicken stays juicy as it cooks.
Onion and Garlic – Aromatic flavors that’ll elevate the sauce. Sautéing them before adding to the crockpot can bring out even more flavor, but this is optional.
Spices and Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. These are the essential players for bringing the dish to life.
Heavy Cream or Sour Cream – If you like your sauce extra creamy, a splash of heavy cream or sour cream will give it that indulgent texture.
Optional Add-ins for Custom Flavor
Feel free to get creative with your Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops recipe! Here are a few fun ingredients to add, based on your taste preferences:
Mushrooms – Fresh or canned mushrooms work beautifully in this dish. They add texture and depth to the sauce.
Cheese – A bit of shredded cheddar or parmesan stirred into the sauce can make the dish even more decadent.
Bell Peppers – For a slight sweetness and color contrast, bell peppers are a great choice.
How to Choose the Best Chicken Chops for the Crock Pot
When selecting chicken chops, keep in mind that bone-in cuts work better for slow cooking. The bones not only add flavor but help keep the meat tender as it cooks. Chicken breasts can dry out, so stick to thighs or chops for juicier results.
To elevate your flavor game, opt for fresh chicken chops whenever possible. Fresh cuts retain more moisture than frozen ones, ensuring your dish remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Before you throw everything into the crockpot, it’s important to prep your ingredients to ensure the best results. Start by gathering everything you’ll need and set it out for easy access. This is what we’ll do next:
Chop your onions and garlic for more cooking tips on aromatics, check out this recipe and learn how to layer flavors with minimal effort. If you want to enhance the flavor even further, sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil until they’re golden brown before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelizes the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Trim your chicken chops. Remove any excess fat or skin, but leave the bone-in for that added richness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear if you’re browning them before slow cooking.
Layering for Maximum Flavor
Once your chicken is prepped, it’s time to layer the ingredients in the crockpot. Here’s the secret to getting that perfect flavor:
Place the chicken chops at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay them in a single layer so they cook evenly. If you’re using a smaller crockpot, you may need to layer the chicken slightly.
Add the aromatics (onions and garlic) on top of the chicken. These ingredients will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.
Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the chicken, followed by the chicken broth. This forms the base of your sauce, and it’ll simmer into the chicken, keeping everything tender and juicy.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. This is your chance to customize the flavor. Don’t shy away from extra garlic powder or paprika if you love bold flavors.
Cooking Time and Temperature Settings
Once everything is layered and seasoned, it’s time to set the crockpot. You’ll want to cook the smothered chicken chops on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can cook them on high for about 2 to 3 hours, but low and slow will always yield the most tender, flavorful results.
Keep in mind, you don’t want to cook the chicken too long as it could dry out. The beauty of the crockpot is that it does the work for you — the longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Tips for Preventing Dry Chicken
To prevent your chicken from drying out, be sure to:
Use bone-in chicken. This helps retain moisture and infuses the meat with flavor.
Don’t overcook. Check your chicken near the end of the recommended cooking time to ensure it’s still juicy.
- Add a splash of cream towards the end of cooking if you want an extra creamy sauce that coats the chicken.
Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Comfort Food
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners. These tender, juicy chicken chops are coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that melts in your mouth — all effortlessly made in your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving that Southern-style chicken dinner, but without the fuss. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to make chicken, this Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops recipe will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
4 Bone-in chicken chops
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
Place the chicken chops in the crockpot.
Top with chopped onions, garlic, and seasonings.
Pour the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, add heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serve with mashed potatoes or rice, and enjoy!
Notes
Use bone-in chicken for maximum flavor and moisture.
If the sauce is too thin, thicken with cornstarch or flour slurry.
For extra flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the crockpot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops, Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Southern Chicken, Crockpot Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner
Sauce and Gravy Perfection
What Makes the “Smothered” Sauce So Special?
The magic of Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops isn’t just in the chicken itself, but in the sauce. The word “smothered” conjures up visions of a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce that makes every bite of Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops a decadent experience. The cream of mushroom soup is the backbone of this sauce, but it’s the additional ingredients and seasonings that truly elevate the flavor of Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops.
As the chicken chops cook, the broth, cream of mushroom soup, and spices come together to create a velvety sauce that soaks into the meat, ensuring that every bite of Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops is infused with flavor. The sauce coats the chicken beautifully, keeping it juicy while adding layers of richness, making this dish a perfect comfort food for any meal.
Best Thickening Agents: Flour vs. Cornstarch
While the sauce will thicken naturally as it cooks, some people like it a little thicker. You can achieve the perfect gravy-like consistency with either flour or cornstarch.
Flour – If you use flour, make a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and water. Add this slurry to the crockpot about 30 minutes before finishing the cook time. This will help thicken the sauce without making it clumpy.
Cornstarch – Alternatively, you can use cornstarch. Just mix 1-2 tablespoons with water and stir it into the sauce about 20 minutes before the end of cooking. Cornstarch gives the sauce a smoother texture and is typically quicker.
Flavor Boosters: Garlic, Onion, and Cream Options
For an even more flavorful sauce, here are a few simple tweaks:
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder adds a deep, savory punch to the sauce. The more garlic, the better, in my opinion!
Onion – Sautéed onions can add sweetness, but you can also experiment with onion powder if you want a smoother texture.
Heavy cream or Sour cream – If you love a rich, velvety sauce, adding a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream at the end of cooking will take the sauce to the next level. It adds that extra creamy richness that feels luxurious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Smothered Chicken Chops
Smothered chicken chops are already packed with flavor, so the key to serving them is finding side dishes that complement without overshadowing the dish. Here are a few great options:
Mashed Potatoes – This classic side is the perfect vehicle for soaking up that rich, creamy sauce. The smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken and thick gravy.
Rice – White rice or even brown rice will do a great job of soaking up all the delicious sauce. If you’re looking to jazz things up, consider a seasoned rice like garlic rice or pilaf.
Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts offer a healthy, vibrant contrast to the creamy chicken. Plus, the caramelized edges of the veggies add extra flavor and texture to the meal.
Cornbread – If you’re going for a Southern-inspired meal, cornbread is a must. It’s light, fluffy, and perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
Family-Friendly Meal Ideas
This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or a busy family, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of other dishes. Here are some ideas for rounding out the meal:
Simple Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the chicken. Add a few toppings like avocado or cucumber for an extra crunch.
Mac and Cheese – If you’re feeding kids (or just adults who love comfort food), mac and cheese makes for a delicious side. The creamy cheese and pasta combine perfectly with the savory chicken and gravy.
Southern-Style Dinner Combinations
To make the meal even more indulgent, you could turn it into a full Southern feast. Serve your smothered chicken chops alongside:
Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy, tangy, and delicious.
Collard Greens – Slow-cooked greens bring a slightly bitter balance to the rich, creamy chicken.
Biscuits – Soft, buttery biscuits are another Southern classic that works beautifully here, allowing guests to scoop up the sauce.
Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips
How to Store Leftovers Properly
One of the best things about Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops is that it makes for amazing leftovers! Here’s how to store them for maximum freshness:
Cool down the dish before storing. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Store in an airtight container. Place the chicken chops and sauce in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent any contamination.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to eat your leftovers within this time frame to ensure they stay fresh and safe to consume.
Reheating Without Drying Out
Reheating smothered chicken chops can sometimes lead to dry chicken, but don’t worry! Here’s how to keep the chicken moist when reheating:
Use a microwave-safe container and cover the chicken with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to keep the moisture in.
Reheat in intervals: Microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even reheating.
Stovetop method: For an even juicier result, place the chicken and sauce in a pan over low heat. Add a small splash of chicken broth or water if necessary to keep it from drying out.
Freezer-Friendly Instructions
If you want to freeze the Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops for later:
Portion it out: Divide the chicken into meal-sized portions before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags: Make sure the container is tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Freezing tip: Label the containers with the date, so you know when to use them up.
Freeze for up to 3 months: While it’s always best to eat within a month, the dish will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating from Freezer
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen smothered chicken chops, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave as directed.
Recipe Variations
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Options
If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can easily modify this Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops recipe to fit your dietary needs:
Use a low-carb thickener: Instead of flour or cornstarch, opt for xanthan gum or guar gum to thicken your sauce without adding unnecessary carbs. Just a small amount goes a long way, so be sure to add gradually.
Substitute the cream of mushroom soup: Most cream of mushroom soups contain flour, but you can swap it out for a low-carb or homemade version. There are plenty of keto-friendly alternatives available, or you can make your own using heavy cream and mushrooms.
Skip the potatoes or rice: If you’re craving that creamy sauce without the carbs, consider serving your chicken chops with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. These options provide a satisfying, healthy alternative.
Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free Modifications
For those who need to avoid dairy or gluten, there are easy fixes that won’t sacrifice flavor:
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream or sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use a dairy-free version of the cream of mushroom soup (many stores now offer options).
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. You can also check if the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free (many brands offer gluten-free versions now). If not, try making your own gluten-free version by mixing gluten-free flour with some chicken broth and mushrooms.
Making It Spicy: Cajun or Chipotle Styles
Want to add a little heat to your Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops? Here are a few fun variations to spice things up:
Cajun Style: Add a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a zesty, bold flavor.
Chipotle Style: For a smoky, spicy twist, add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a few teaspoons of chipotle chili powder.
Nutritional Value and Health Considerations
Macronutrients Breakdown
Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops are a hearty, comforting dish, and understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it guilt-free. Here’s a basic breakdown of what you can expect from a typical serving:
Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving (depending on the specific ingredients and portion size).
Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, with each serving providing about 30-40 grams of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
Fat: The dish can be higher in fat, especially if you use cream or sour cream. Expect around 25-30 grams of fat, depending on how much cream you add to the sauce. Opting for low-fat cream or skipping the cream can help reduce the fat content.
How to Make This Dish Healthier
If you’re looking to lighten up your Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops while still keeping it flavorful, here are a few simple tips:
Use lighter cream: Opt for half-and-half or a low-fat cream instead of heavy cream.
Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of adding extra salt. This keeps the dish heart-healthy.
Add more vegetables: You can easily sneak in some healthy greens or low-calorie vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, into the sauce or as a side dish.
Allergen Information
Dairy: This recipe typically includes cream or sour cream, which are dairy products. If you’re sensitive to dairy, consider using plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Gluten: The sauce may contain gluten if you use flour as a thickener or if the cream of mushroom soup isn’t gluten-free. You can make this dish gluten-free by substituting with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking in the Crock Pot
One of the biggest mistakes when making Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops is overcooking the chicken. While the slow cooker is great for making meat tender, it can easily turn your chicken into a dry, stringy mess if left in for too long. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking times — on low, you should cook the chicken for 4-6 hours. Check for doneness near the end of the cook time to ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Choosing the Wrong Cut of Chicken
Another common mistake is using the wrong cut of chicken. For this recipe, bone-in chicken chops or thighs are ideal because they stay moist and tender during the slow cooking process. If you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you may end up with dry chicken, so stick with cuts that retain moisture during long cooking times.
Skipping the Browning Step (Optional but Recommended)
While this step is optional, browning your Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops before adding them to the crockpot can elevate the flavor. This simple step creates a rich, golden crust on the Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Searing the chicken chops in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker locks in the juices and gives the Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops a deeper flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this, but taking the extra time to sear the Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops is worth it!
FAQs
Can I make Crock Pot Smothered Chicken Chops with boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken in this recipe, but bone-in chicken chops are preferred for slow cooking. Bone-in cuts tend to retain moisture better, resulting in more flavorful and tender meat. If you’re using boneless chicken, just be mindful of the cooking time — it may cook a bit faster, so check around the 3-hour mark if cooking on low.
How long do I cook chicken chops in a slow cooker?
Typically, chicken chops should be cooked on low for about 4 to 6 hours. Cooking on high works too, but it should only take about 2 to 3 hours. Just be sure to check the chicken near the end of the recommended cooking time to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
What’s the best sauce base—cream, broth, or soup?
For the creamiest, richest sauce, a combination of cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth works best. The soup provides a creamy consistency, while the broth adds depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can opt for low-fat cream of mushroom soup or reduce the amount of cream.
Can I use pork chops instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute pork chops in this recipe. Keep in mind that pork chops have a slightly different cooking time than chicken, and they may need to be cooked a little longer for optimal tenderness. Always check the internal temperature to ensure pork is fully cooked.
How do I avoid a watery sauce?
If your sauce turns out too watery, try cooking it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce and thicken. You can also use a thickening agent like flour, cornstarch, or xanthan gum to help the sauce achieve the desired consistency.
Should I sear the chicken before slow cooking?
While it’s not required, searing the chicken chops before slow cooking will enhance the flavor of the dish. The caramelized, golden crust on the chicken adds depth to the sauce and locks in moisture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s highly recommended for extra flavor.