The Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe is the ultimate comfort meal that brings warmth, ease, and big flavor to your table. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts nestled under a tower of fluffy, savory stuffing, all cooked together slowly in a cozy crockpot, making your kitchen smell like pure homey magic. This recipe combines simple pantry staples into a deliciously hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Once you try this Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe, it’s bound to become your go-to for fuss-free, feel-good dinners that impress without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from the creamy sauce that keeps everything moist to the stuffing that adds a crispy, seasoned touch on top.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that cooks up tender and juicy.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix: Adds the perfect savory and herbaceous crumbly topping.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Brings rich creaminess to the sauce layer.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smooth texture to enhance the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (optional): Boosts color, nutrition, and a fresh bite – think green beans or mixed veggies.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors alive.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step makes a huge difference in flavor, ensuring the chicken is tasty through and through. Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker – this allows it to slowly absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth. If you’re adding frozen vegetables, fold them into this mixture now. This blend will become the fluffy, flavorful topping that pairs beautifully with the moist chicken beneath.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Next, stir together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth. This creamy sauce is the secret to tying the whole dish together with richness and moisture, preventing the stuffing from drying out during cooking.
Step 4: Layer and Assemble
Spread the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Then, drizzle the creamy soup and sour cream mixture evenly across the top of the stuffing layer for a perfect finish before cooking.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This slow, steady cooking ensures the chicken becomes irresistibly tender and fully infused with the flavors of the stuffing and creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork to achieve a light, crumbly texture. Serve warm and revel in the cozy flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe. It’s straightforward but endlessly satisfying.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add a pop of color and a fresh herbal brightness that perfectly complements the creamy, hearty dish. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper over the top right before serving can also add a subtle spice hit.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots add a light, crunchy contrast that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties. You can also layer it in a casserole dish, broiling the top for a few minutes after slow cooking to create a crispy, browned crust that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stew-like dish keeps its flavor and texture well, making it easy to enjoy as a quick weekday lunch or dinner the following day.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it, so you remember this delicious meal is waiting for you!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to keep the chicken moist and the stuffing fluffy. Add a splash of chicken broth if the dish seems dry, stirring occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making them a great alternative for this Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe. Just adjust cooking time if your thighs are bone-in.
What kind of stuffing mix works best?
Any boxed stuffing mix will do, but herb-seasoned mixes bring extra flavor. If you prefer, you can even use homemade stuffing for a personalized touch.
Do I have to add vegetables?
Vegetables are optional but highly recommended. They not only add nutrition and color but also contribute to a more balanced and hearty meal.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead?
While designed for a slow cooker, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot using the slow cook function or pressure cooking with adjusted times, but the traditional slow cooker method really enhances the flavors over time.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They should be tender and no longer pink in the center, which the prescribed cooking times in the recipe ensure when followed.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how effortless and satisfying this Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe is. It’s perfect for those days when you want a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try soon, and get ready for a new family favorite that delivers warmth and smiles on every plate.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (LOW) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (HIGH)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Tender boneless chicken breasts are layered with a savory stuffing mixture and a creamy chicken soup sauce, then slow-cooked to perfection. Optional frozen vegetables add a nutritious touch, making this dish hearty and flavorful without any fuss.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing Mixture
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (optional; green beans, mixed veggies)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Mix the stuffing: In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth. If using, add the frozen vegetables and stir to distribute them evenly within the stuffing.
- Layer stuffing mixture: Spread the stuffing and vegetable mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, covering them completely.
- Create the sauce: In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with the sour cream until smooth and well combined. Spread this sauce evenly over the stuffing layer.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, tender, and the stuffing moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork to separate it. Serve warm with optional sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stuffing mix.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- If you prefer, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Frozen vegetables can be omitted or replaced based on availability and preference.
- This dish can be doubled for larger gatherings, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
