This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing dish is a comfort food classic! Juicy chicken meets soft, flavorful stuffing, all cooked together to perfection in a handy slow cooker.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love tossing the ingredients in and letting the Crock Pot do its magic. A perfect weeknight meal that makes cleanup a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best for this dish as they stay tender and juicy in the slow cooker. If you need a substitute, chicken thighs work well too. They add a richer flavor.
Stuffing Mix: I like using traditional stuffing mix for its classic taste, but you can try different flavors. Cornbread stuffing or wild rice stuffing can add unique twists!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess to the dish. You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile, or use a homemade white sauce if you prefer to avoid canned soups.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you need a lighter option, especially for a healthier take.
Spices: Dried sage and thyme give this dish its comforting flavor. Feel free to swap them for Italian herbs or poultry seasoning if that’s what you have on hand!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken in a Crock Pot?
Cooking chicken in a Crock Pot requires some attention for perfect results. Here’s how to ensure your chicken stays moist and flavorful:
- Use fresh or thawed chicken. Skip the frozen chicken as it can cook unevenly.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper! This simple step makes a huge difference.
- Cover the chicken completely with the stuffing mixture. This helps to lock in moisture.
- Cooking on low is recommended for tender chicken. If you’re short on time, high heat works, but keep an eye on it.
Remember to check that your chicken is cooked through before serving—an internal temperature of 165°F is safe!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix (traditional or herb-flavored)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- Mashed potatoes (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep time, plus cooking time of 4 to 6 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH. You’ll have a fantastic, hearty meal ready with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker (Crock Pot) lightly with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the Crock Pot. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried sage, and dried thyme. Seasoning adds great flavor, so don’t skip this step!
3. Mix the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, and melted butter. Stir well until everything is mixed together evenly. This mixture will create a delicious layer of flavor!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Now, spoon the stuffing mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure to cover them completely. This will help keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully lift the chicken and stuffing out of the Crock Pot and plate it up. The stuffing will be moist and packed with flavor, soaking up all the delicious juices.
7. Garnish and Add Sides:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation. Serve hot alongside mashed potatoes or your favorite veggie for a truly comforting meal!
This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a fantastic combination of convenience and flavor. Enjoy your warm, hearty dish!
FAQ about Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, it’s recommended to cook on HIGH for about 4 to 5 hours, but keep in mind that the texture might not be as tender.
What Can I Substitute for the Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with homemade white sauce or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Just ensure it’s a similar consistency for best results!
How Do I 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 stovetop to maintain the texture of the stuffing and chicken.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! You can add some chopped carrots, celery, or even green beans to the slow cooker. Just toss them in with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition!
