Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a cozy meal that’s super easy to make. You simply combine chicken with tasty stuffing and let it cook slowly to get all the flavors mingling together!
This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate, and the best part? It’s a one-pot wonder! I love coming home to the smell of dinner ready to go—talk about a time-saver!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using chicken thighs for more flavor or even turkey breasts for a holiday twist!
Stuffing Mix: I love using herb-flavored stuffing mix for that extra taste. However, you can opt for a lower-sodium version, or even make your own stuffing mix using cubed bread, sautéed onions, celery, and your favorite herbs if you have some extra time.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient adds creaminess and flavor, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-fat cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. A can of cream of mushroom soup can work too and gives a different flavor.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth adds depth of flavor, but vegetable broth or even water can substitute if you don’t have broth on hand, although the taste may be milder.
Thyme: Dried thyme is perfect for this recipe, but feel free to switch it up with rosemary or parsley for a different taste profile. For fresh herbs, add them right at the end to keep the flavor vibrant!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken tender and flavorful, follow these tips:
- Season the chicken well before adding the stuffing on top. This helps infuse flavor directly into the meat.
- Keep the crock pot covered while cooking. This traps steam and moisture, which helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; every peek lets valuable heat escape, prolonging cooking time.
- If using frozen chicken, extend the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked properly.
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute for ultimate tenderness!
Delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Stuffing Mixture:
- 1 box (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Optional: cooked green beans or other green vegetable
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time. You then let it cook in your crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. After that, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Make the Stuffing Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, water, melted butter, and dried thyme. Stir until everything is well combined and looks nice and creamy.
3. Spread the Stuffing Over the Chicken:
Gently pour the stuffing mixture over the chicken breasts in the crock pot, making sure to spread it out evenly. This lets all those yummy flavors soak into the chicken.
4. Cook the Mixture:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook. If you’re running short on time, select the ‘high’ setting and let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. For a longer, slow-cooked meal, set it to ‘low’ for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the stuffing will be set and slightly golden on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully place a chicken breast on each plate, and top it with a generous portion of the stuffing. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh thyme. On the side, you can add cooked green beans or any of your favorite veggies to make the meal complete.
This slow cooker recipe is not just easy but also brings the delightful flavors of home-cooked comfort food, perfect for busy days when you want to come home to aromas of a hearty dinner! Enjoy your Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to extend the cooking time. It may take an extra hour on low or 1 to 2 hours on high for the chicken to cook through completely. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
No problem! You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and broth. For a lighter option, try a mixture of plain yogurt and broth or a low-fat cream soup.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it until it’s steaming hot throughout.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken and stuffing mixture in the crock pot insert ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking it, or adjust the cooking time if it goes in cold.
