This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a cozy one-pot meal! Tender chicken, tasty stuffing, and a little bit of seasoning come together for a simple dinner everyone will love.
The best part? You just toss everything in the Crock Pot and let it do the work while you relax! I like to serve it with some green beans for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they stay moist during cooking. If you’re short on chicken, thighs are also a delicious alternative, adding a bit more flavor.
Stuffing Mix: I use an herb-flavored stuffing mix, but you can get creative here! Try cornbread stuffing or even a gluten-free version if needed. Just make sure to adjust the liquid amounts if the mix requires it.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: This helps create a creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use a low-fat version, or substitute with homemade cream sauce if you have extra time.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. My personal favorite is low-sodium broth, so I can control the saltiness of the dish better.
Onion and Celery: These add a nice flavor base. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them, or try using dry onion flakes instead.
How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right in a Crock Pot?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is all about timing and moisture. Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out tender and juicy:
- Layer the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot, where it’s hottest.
- Make sure to season them well; this enhances the flavor as they cook.
- Cook on low heat for longer periods for the best results. 4 to 6 hours is ideal; at high for 2 to 3 hours, keep an eye on it.
Using a meat thermometer can help too; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe cooking. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (herb-flavored or your favorite kind)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 tsp dried sage (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Prepared gravy (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in the Crock Pot for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you don’t have much time to cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your Crock Pot with butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Layer the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot. Season them with salt, pepper, and the dried sage if you’re using it. This will add extra flavor to the chicken!
3. Mix the Stuffing:
In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chopped onion, chopped celery, and melted butter. Make sure everything is mixed well so the flavors blend together nicely.
4. Combine the Soup and Broth:
In another bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until the mixture is nice and smooth. Pour this soup mixture evenly over the chicken in the Crock Pot.
5. Add the Stuffing Mixture:
Finally, sprinkle the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and soup layer. This will create a delicious topping as it cooks!
6. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the stuffing will be tender. You can check if the chicken is done by making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, serve with warmed prepared gravy drizzled over the top. Garnish your dish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, flavorful one-pot meal!
This recipe yields tender chicken baked right into the savory stuffing, creating a cozy dinner that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that it may take longer to cook. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. If you’re in a hurry, consider thawing it overnight in the refrigerator or using the microwave’s defrost setting first.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and keep them in the fridge. In the morning, just layer everything in the Crock Pot and set it to cook while you’re at work. It’s perfect for busy days!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you want a healthier or different option, you can use a homemade cream sauce made from flour, butter, and milk or substitute it with a can of cream of mushroom soup. Both choices will give you a rich flavor!
