This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a super tasty dish made with tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a hint of gravy. It cooks all day, filling your home with a yummy smell!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days when you still want a warm, hearty meal with hardly any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they stay tender in the slow cooker. You can use thighs if you prefer darker meat, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they can take a bit longer.
Stuffing Mix: An herb-flavored stuffing mix adds flavor easily. If you don’t have it, make your own using stale bread, herbs, butter, and broth. Gluten-free options are available if needed.
Cream of Chicken & Mushroom Soups: These create a rich, creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version or are avoiding cream soups, use homemade sauces or stock mixed with a bit of flour for thickening.
Poultry Seasoning: This gives traditional flavor. If you lack it on hand, use dried sage or thyme as great substitutes. Go easy with the amount if you’re not sure!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender?
The key to keeping the chicken juicy is cooking it slowly at a low temperature. Here’s how you do it:
- Place chicken in the crock pot first to cook in the moisture.
- Use the recommended cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low. This allows it to break down and stay tender.
- Avoid opening the lid too often, as this lets heat escape and can extend cooking time.
Also, keep in mind that leftover chicken from previous meals is a fantastic option for this recipe!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix (herb-flavored)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning or dried sage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and cooks in the crock pot for 6 to 7 hours on low. Perfect for a busy day when you want a home-cooked meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This helps them soak up the broth and flavors from the soup.
2. Mix the Stuffing Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the stuffing mix, chopped onion, celery, and poultry seasoning. Combine everything well, creating a tasty filling that will top the chicken.
3. Combine the Soups and Broth:
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth until smooth. This mixture will create a delicious sauce over the chicken.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crock pot. Then, sprinkle the stuffing mixture on top, making sure it covers everything nicely.
5. Set and Cook:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and the stuffing is nice and tender.
6. Finish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle fresh thyme on top before serving for a lovely garnish. When you’re ready to eat, serve the chicken with stuffing and spoon some of the creamy sauce over it. Enjoy your hearty meal!
This recipe yields a flavorful, comforting dish with juicy chicken and moist, savory stuffing, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Enjoy!
FAQs About Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time by about an hour. Also, ensure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuffing mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just layer the ingredients in the crock pot before you’re ready to cook!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little chicken broth if needed to moisten the stuffing.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This chicken and stuffing dish pairs beautifully with vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans. You can also serve it with a crisp side salad for a complete meal!
