This Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing dish is comfort food at its best! Tender chicken cooks slowly with yummy stuffing, making every bite full of flavor.
I love how easy it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly and remain tender. If you need a substitute, consider using thighs for a juicier option or even a plant-based chicken substitute for a vegetarian version.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, a homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup works well. You can even use a dairy-free variant!
Stuffing Mix: The stuffing mix is a star player here. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free stuffing mix or even cooked rice or quinoa for a unique twist. I like to choose a savory blend for depth of flavor.
Onion and Celery: These give a great base flavor. If you’re short on time, you can opt for pre-diced veggies. You can also swap in shallots for a sweeter taste or add bell peppers for a crunch.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and garlic powder add warmth. You might also enjoy using rosemary or Italian seasoning if you want to mix things up a bit!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Moist and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken in this recipe is the slow cooking process. The combination of the soup, broth, and the cooking method keep the chicken perfectly tender.
- Season the chicken well before adding the soup mixture—this enhances flavor.
- Don’t skip the step of mixing the soup and broth until smooth; this prevents clumps and ensures even coating.
- Cook on low for the best results; this method tenderizes the meat without drying it out.
- Make sure to fluff the stuffing gently at the end to keep it light and airy.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. A perfect meal to prepare ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the tasty sauce for your chicken. Set it aside for now.
2. Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme over them. This will infuse the chicken with delicious flavors as it cooks!
3. Add the Soup Mixture:
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. This will keep them moist and flavorful during cooking.
4. Mix the Stuffing:
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the diced onion and celery. Stir it all together so the onions and celery are well distributed. Then, pour this mixture over the chicken and soup in the crockpot, spreading it out evenly.
5. Cook it Up:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the chicken and stuffing on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the stuffing looks golden and fluffy.
6. Fluff and Garnish:
Once everything is cooked, take a fork and gently fluff the stuffing to make it nice and airy. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to add an additional hour of cooking time on low, or an extra 30 minutes on high. It’s important that the chicken cooks thoroughly, so check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Additionally, you can mix 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and a splash of heavy cream to create a simple creamy base.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if the stuffing seems dry. For best results, reheat in small batches to ensure even warming.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or even chopped bell peppers to the stuffing mixture. Just be mindful of the moisture they may add, as it could make the stuffing a bit denser. Adding them enhances flavor and nutrients!
