This Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a cozy meal you can set and forget! Juicy chicken meets fluffy stuffing for a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love.
Honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a one-pot wonder? I throw everything in, and a few hours later, my kitchen smells amazing! Perfect for those busy days when cooking feels like a chore!
And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! I can sit back and enjoy my favorite show while dinner cooks itself—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, thighs are just as tasty and stay tender in the crock pot.
Stuffing Mix: Stovetop stuffing is super convenient. Feel free to use any flavor you like! If you want to keep it homemade, try making your own stuffing from day-old bread mixed with herbs and broth.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re avoiding canned soups, use a homemade white sauce as a substitute for a fresher take.
Chicken Broth: It adds flavor. Swap it for vegetable broth for a lighter dish, or use low-sodium broth if watching your salt intake. Stock from cooked chicken works great too!
Butters and Olive Oil: I love using melted butter for flavor, but olive oil can work just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Chicken?
To make sure your chicken stays juicy and tender, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the crock pot. This allows the juices from the stuffing to flow down over the chicken.
- Season well! A good amount of salt, pepper, and herbs boosts the flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
- Avoid lifting the lid while cooking. Each time you do, you let the heat escape, which can lead to dry chicken. Trust the process!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) stovetop stuffing mix (any flavor, typically herb)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook in the crock pot for 4 to 6 hours on low. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Season them with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. This helps flavor the chicken beautifully as it cooks.
2. Mix the Base:
In a good-sized mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, melted butter, and water. Stir it all together until it’s nicely blended. This forms the rich and creamy base for your stuffing.
3. Add the Stuffing:
Now, add the stuffing mix into your soup mixture. If you’re including celery and onion for more flavor, toss them in too! Stir everything together so that all the stuffing is coated in that creamy sauce.
4. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Carefully pour the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is covered well—you want that flavor to meld together!
5. Cook It Up:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. This slow-cooking method ensures that the chicken stays juicy and the stuffing becomes soft and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, gently remove the chicken from the pot and slice or shred it as you like. Serve the chicken atop the fluffy stuffing. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your comforting and easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing! It’s a heartwarming dish that everyone will love.
FAQ About Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw your chicken in the fridge overnight or in cold water for quicker results. Frozen chicken may require additional cooking time, so keep an eye on it!
What Can I Use as a Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a quick homemade version by mixing together equal parts of chicken broth and milk with a bit of flour to thicken. You can also use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce if you’d like a fresh alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the stuffing moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the stuffing mix, and they’ll cook down nicely in the crock pot.