crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe
The Best crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe
Oh, this Crock Pot chicken and stuffing recipe is one of those things that just feels like home—simple enough to make without stressing over perfect timing, yet packed with flavor that makes everything taste like it was made with love. I started making it years ago when I wanted something easy to pull together for a busy weeknight dinner, and it became a staple in our house. My kids, especially my five-year-old who’s still learning to eat with a fork, love the soft, moist texture of the chicken and the way the stuffing stays perfectly tender when it’s done. It’s not just a meal; it’s something that feels special, even when it’s just sitting in the slow cooker all day. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, and it’s always a hit.
What really makes this recipe special is how it balances hearty flavors with a touch of simplicity. The chicken stays juicy and tender because it’s slow-cooked, and the stuffing gets all the rich, savory notes from buttery breadcrumbs, celery, and onions without being overly heavy. My husband always says it’s the kind of dish that makes him feel like he’s eating something restaurant-quality, but at home. And the health benefits? Well, it’s got lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and a good dose of whole grains from the stuffing. It’s not so bad for you, but it’s still packed with flavor—just the way I like it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover bread or stale rolls, so there’s no waste. My kids don’t even notice the extra veggies mixed in; they just think it’s the best dinner ever.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken slow-cooked in a savory sauce, paired with a flavorful homemade stuffing. Perfect for a cozy meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups bread cubes (white or whole wheat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (if baking stuffing separately). In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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2 While chicken cooks, prepare the stuffing: In a bowl, mix bread cubes, chicken broth, celery, onion, green onions, parsley, butter, sage, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in egg (if using) to bind.
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3 Prepare the sauce: In a pan, sauté carrots and celery until softened. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker with the chicken.
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4 If baking stuffing separately, transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy. If using the slow cooker for stuffing, transfer it to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
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5 Once chicken and stuffing are done, shred the chicken and mix it into the stuffing. Serve hot!
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pan for baking stuffing (optional, if not using crock pot)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Works
This Crock Pot chicken and stuffing combo is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple to make ahead and holds up perfectly during a busy holiday meal. It’s the kind of dish that lets everyone focus on the main event while still feeling like a full, hearty meal—no last-minute stress, just delicious flavors waiting to be served. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy weeknight family dinner, this recipe is reliable, comforting, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
What is the best way to prepare crock pot chicken for stuffing?
The best way to prepare crock pot chicken for stuffing is to use tender chicken thighs or breasts, seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of paprika or thyme. Cook the chicken in the crock pot with a bit of broth or water for about 4-6 hours on low, until fully cooked and shredded. Once cooked, you can shred it or chop it finely to mix into your stuffing.
How do I make the crock pot chicken stuffing taste better?
To enhance the flavor of your crock pot chicken stuffing, consider adding ingredients like diced celery, onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also incorporate herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley. For extra richness, add a bit of butter or olive oil while mixing the stuffing, and consider using a small amount of cream or sour cream for creaminess. Additionally, you can make a homemade chicken broth base for the crock pot chicken to deepen the flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for crock pot stuffing?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for crock pot stuffing. Simply shred or chop the pre-cooked chicken into small pieces and mix it into your stuffing recipe. If you’re using canned chicken, make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly to remove excess salt and broth. Adding a bit of extra liquid, such as broth or water, can help balance the flavors and ensure the stuffing stays moist.
How long should I cook the crock pot stuffing, and what temperature should I set it?
The cooking time and temperature for crock pot stuffing can vary slightly depending on the recipe, but generally, you should cook it on low heat for about 4-6 hours. For high heat, it can take around 2-3 hours. It’s essential to check the stuffing’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. If you’re baking the stuffing separately, you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of the dish.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making crock pot chicken stuffing?
Some common mistakes to avoid when making crock pot chicken stuffing include: 1. Overcrowding the crock pot: Ensure there is enough space for the stuffing to cook evenly without being too packed. 2. Using too much liquid: Excess liquid can cause the stuffing to become soggy. Adjust the amount of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. 3. Skipping the herbs and spices: Adding a variety of herbs and spices can significantly improve the flavor profile of your stuffing. 4. Not checking the temperature: Make sure the stuffing reaches the proper internal temperature to ensure it is safe to eat. 5. Using uncooked or undercooked chicken: Always ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the stuffing mixture.
