Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is a heartwarming dish that marries tender chicken with savory stuffing, creating a comforting meal perfect for busy nights or special gatherings. This recipe is not only a delightful treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses, with the aroma of thyme and garlic wafting through your kitchen. Imagine the tender pieces of chicken bathed in creamy soup, topped with flavor-packed stuffing, all slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is worth making because it brings the family together around the dinner table, offering comfort, warmth, and a taste of home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is an exciting dish that offers plenty of benefits. First and foremost, its easy prep makes it a go-to recipe for busy weekdays. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have a wholesome meal ready with little effort. It’s also family-friendly, meaning even the pickiest eaters will find joy in its flavorful profile. Whether you prefer a traditional cut of chicken or a more modern twist, this recipe can fit your lifestyle. Additionally, the use of just a few key ingredients ensures that you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
To create this flavor-packed dish, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – juicy and tender, providing the perfect base for this recipe.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, enveloping the chicken beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth – helps keep your dish moist and enhances the savory taste.
- 1 package (12 oz) stuffing mix – elevates the dish with that beloved herb and bread flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped celery – offers a fresh crunch and vibrancy.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion – imparts a subtle sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – provides aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – contributes a fragrant touch to each bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for balancing flavors.
- Optional: 1/2 cup water for added moisture – perfect if you prefer your stuffing on the moister side.
Step-by-Step Directions for Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Follow these clear and easy steps to create your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing:
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme to create a flavorful base.
Mix the Soup and Broth: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Use a whisk to mix until smooth and homogeneous. Pour this creamy concoction over the seasoned chicken in the crockpot, ensuring each piece is coated.
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chopped celery and onion. If you desire a moister stuffing, feel free to add 1/2 cup of water at this stage, mixing it well.
Layer the Stuffing: Carefully spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and soup layer in the crockpot. This will create a delicious topping that absorbs all the flavors as it cooks.
Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is tender and fully cooked, achieving a perfect harmony of textures.
Finish and Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, stirring it into the warm stuffing below for a delightful mix of flavors.
Tips & Tricks
- Chef’s Secrets: To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or sage alongside the thyme. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish, giving it a flavorful lift.
- Optional Extras: You can incorporate other vegetables or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Cooking Hacks: Ensure even cooking by cutting your chicken breasts into smaller pieces. The more uniform the pieces, the better your dish will cook overall.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This mouthwatering Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a fresh contrast. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also enhance the meal. For an added touch, garnish your dish with fresh herbs before serving to elevate its presentation.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing typically contains around 400 calories. This includes a healthy dose of protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the stuffing mix. While this dish is comforting, keep indulgences in check if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Storing Tips & Variations for Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
You can easily store leftovers from this delicious meal. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a saucepan on low heat until heated through. For a healthier twist, consider swapping out the stuffing mix for whole grain or gluten-free options. Additionally, you can add more vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for extra nutritional value.
Conclusion for Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines ease with incredible flavor and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe delivers on every front. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe right away and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your table!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure you adjust the cooking time, as frozen chicken may take longer to cook through.
2. How can I make this dish healthier?
You can switch to lower-sodium soup and broth, use whole grain stuffing mix, and add plenty of vegetables for a nutritional boost.
3. What can I do if the stuffing is too dry?
You can add more broth or water during the cooking process to enhance moisture.
4. Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything in the crockpot insert and store it in the fridge overnight. Just place it in the crockpot the next day to cook.
5. Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian variant.
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using GF stuffing)
Description
A heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken with savory stuffing in a slow cooker, perfect for busy nights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) chicken broth
- 1 package (12 oz) stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup water for added moisture
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Mix the Soup and Broth: In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, and pour it over the seasoned chicken.
- Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: Combine the stuffing mix with the chopped celery and onion. Add water if you prefer moister stuffing.
- Layer the Stuffing: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and soup layer in the crockpot.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Finish and Serve: Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir it into the stuffing before serving.
Notes
To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or sage and consider incorporating other vegetables or dried cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
