Slow Cooker Sage Gravy Chicken Leg Quarters Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. While this adds an extra step, the Maillard reaction on the surface of the meat provides a more complex savory base to the gravy. Ensure you deglaze the skillet with a little water or broth and add those flavorful browned bits into the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients for the best possible outcome.

If you find that the gravy is too thin after cooking, you can remove the chicken and vegetables and whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) into the hot liquid.

Turn the slow cooker to the high setting for 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This simple adjustment allows you to customize the texture of the gravy without compromising the delicate flavor of the sage and aromatics.

Variations

• Root Vegetable Addition: Add chopped carrots or parsnips during the assembly phase. These root vegetables add a natural sweetness and heartiness that pairs exceptionally well with the savory sage and chicken gravy.
• Garlic Infused: Tuck 3 to 4 cloves of smashed garlic into the slow cooker along with the onions. This adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the gravy that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power or in a saucepan over low heat until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) throughout.

Allow any leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours at room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent bacterial growth. Once cooled, place the container in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to 3 days. When storing, keep the chicken and gravy together to ensure the meat remains moist and does not dry out during the cooling or reheating process.

You can prepare the aromatics and measure the seasonings the night before to save time. However, it is best to assemble the slow cooker just before you are ready to start the cooking process.

Avoid putting raw chicken in the slow cooker and keeping it in the refrigerator overnight, as this can affect the texture of the meat and the safety of the dish. Assemble all components in the morning and start the slow cooker immediately to ensure a safe and delicious dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve the chicken hot, directly from the slow cooker, ensuring each portion gets a generous amount of the sage-infused gravy and the soft vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that can soak up the flavorful sauce, such as creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread.

The simplicity of the chicken allows it to be the star of the plate, while the gravy ties all the components of the meal together into a cohesive and satisfying dining experience.

To elevate the presentation, consider sprinkling a few fresh herbs over the top just before serving, though this is purely optional. The warmth of the slow-braised chicken is comforting, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Because the meat is so tender, it is easy to serve and enjoy, and the savory nature of the gravy ensures that every bite is well-seasoned. Plate the chicken with care, ensuring that the vegetables are arranged alongside for a rustic, home-style appearance.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Sage Gravy Chicken Leg Quarters

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

Ingredients

• 4 count chicken leg quarters, skinless
• 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 2 cups chicken gravy

Instructions

1. Place the skinless chicken leg quarters into the slow cooker insert. Arrange the onion wedges and sliced celery in the gaps between the chicken pieces to ensure even distribution and flavor infusion throughout the cooking process.
2. Sprinkle the dried sage and poultry seasoning evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Pour the chicken gravy over the entire mixture, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender.
3. Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part near the bone. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Carefully remove the chicken and serve with a generous spoonful of the sage-infused gravy and the softened vegetables from the slow cooker.

Contains: celery

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

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