Slow Cooker Bacon and Onion Smothered Chicken Breasts Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan for two minutes on each side before adding them to the slow cooker.

This step is optional but adds a nice color and caramelization that enhances the overall richness of the finished dish. If you choose to do this, ensure the pan is hot and use a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

If you find the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can remove the chicken and stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water, then cook on high for an additional 15 minutes to thicken. This is a great way to adjust the consistency of the gravy to your preference before serving it over your favorite side dishes.

Variations

• Mushroom Smothered Chicken: Add one cup of sliced cremini mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor profile. The mushrooms will release moisture and add a satisfying texture that complements the bacon and gravy perfectly.
• Herb-Infused Chicken: Incorporate a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary when adding the gravy mix. These herbs pair exceptionally well with the savory notes of the brown gravy and the sweetness of the cooked onions.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature, but do not leave them out for longer than two hours. Once cooled, store the chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures the food remains safe and maintains its quality for several days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or quick lunches during the week.

You can prep the ingredients the night before by placing the chicken, onions, and bacon in the slow cooker insert and storing it in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to cook, simply take it out, add the gravy mix and broth, and start the machine. This saves significant time in the morning, allowing you to have a hot dinner ready with minimal effort.

Serving ideas

Serve the smothered chicken hot, spooning a generous amount of the bacon and onion gravy over each breast.

The sauce is the star of the show, so pair it with something that can absorb the flavor, such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or a side of fluffy white rice. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

For a more rustic meal, serve with a side of warm crusty bread or garlic toast. The gravy is perfectly suited to dipping, and the combination of tender chicken with the smoky bacon flavor makes it a hit with family and guests alike.

Plate each serving individually, ensuring each piece of chicken gets a good portion of the onions and bacon from the slow cooker.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Bacon and Onion Smothered Chicken Breasts

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup half-moon onion slices
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the raw boneless skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of the slow cooker, arranging them in an even layer to ensure consistent heat distribution during the cooking process.
2. Top the chicken with the sliced onions and chopped bacon. Evenly sprinkle the brown gravy mix over the top, then pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Once cooked, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

14 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.