recipe for crock pot chicken and stuffing
The Best recipe for crock pot chicken and stuffing
Oh, this Crock Pot chicken and stuffing recipe is one of those things that just feels like home—like the kind of meal that makes everything else seem a little less complicated. I’ve been making it for years, mostly because it’s so easy to throw together, and yet it still tastes like I put in real effort. The chicken cooks slowly in the pot, tender and juicy, and the stuffing gets all soft and fluffy without having to babysit it on the stove. It’s the kind of dish that feels special for holidays, but it’s also just as good for regular weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying without the fuss.
My kids—well, they’ll eat anything when it’s actually good, but this stuffing? They’ll go for seconds. It’s got a mix of herbs and breadcrumbs that make it taste like something you’d find in a cozy little diner, and the chicken absorbs all those flavors so well. My husband will always say it’s the only thing that makes the leftovers taste even better the next day. And honestly, it’s not just about the taste—it’s about how simple it is to make. You can prep the stuffing ahead of time, toss the chicken in the pot, and let it do all the work while you’re doing other things. Plus, since it’s slow-cooked, the meat stays moist and the stuffing stays tender, which is a win for anyone who doesn’t love overcooked chicken.
I love this recipe because it’s flexible—you can adjust the herbs or the breadcrumbs to suit whatever you have on hand, and it’s perfect for big gatherings or just a quiet family dinner. It’s got a little bit of everything: protein, fiber from the stuffing, and all the vitamins and minerals from the herbs and vegetables. My kids might not always eat their veggies, but this stuffing sneaks them in without them even noticing. And for me, it’s a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated—just something that’s made with love and a little bit of patience. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your family, even if it’s just a simple weeknight meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and savory stuffing, perfect for a cozy dinner. The dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup 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 shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (from the chicken breasts)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- ½ cup milk or cream
- ½ cup diced mushrooms
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Prep the chicken: Season chicken breasts with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker.
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2 Prepare the stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, chicken broth, celery, onion, green onions, carrots, shredded chicken, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well. If using, add the egg for binding.
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3 Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove chicken, shred, and set aside.
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4 Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk/cream. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in mushrooms and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
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5 Assemble the dish: Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish (if using). Pour the sauce over the stuffing. Place shredded chicken on top of the stuffing. Cover and bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Baking dish (optional, for stuffing)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Works
This crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe is always a go-to for my family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead without losing flavor, yet still feels special when served. It holds up well during the week and reheats perfectly, so you’re not stuck scrambling last-minute on holidays or busy weekends. Plus, the tender chicken and hearty stuffing make it the perfect centerpiece for any meal—whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight dinner with the kids.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
What is the best way to prepare crock pot chicken for stuffing?
To prepare crock pot chicken for stuffing, you can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred or chop it finely for easy mixing into the stuffing.
How do I make the perfect crock pot stuffing?
For a classic crock pot stuffing, combine 4 cups of cooked and chopped crock pot chicken, 4 cups of cooked and chopped bread cubes (like crusty bread or dinner rolls), 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of butter, 1/2 cup of diced celery, 1/2 cup of diced onion, 1/4 cup of dried parsley, 1/4 cup of dried thyme, 1/4 cup of dried rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir everything together in the crock pot on low for 1-2 hours until well combined and heated through.
Can I use any type of bread for crock pot stuffing?
Yes, you can use various types of bread for crock pot stuffing, such as: – Dinner rolls – Sourdough bread – Cornbread – Ciabatta or other Italian bread – Any leftover bread from the day before
Just ensure the bread is cut into bite-sized cubes and cooked thoroughly to avoid a soggy stuffing. You can also use a bread mixture like biscuit dough or cornbread mix for added flavor.
What are some great flavor enhancers for crock pot stuffing?
To elevate the flavor of your crock pot stuffing, consider adding these ingredients: – Fresh herbs: chopped fresh parsley, chives, or thyme – Seasonings: paprika, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce – Cheese: shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère – Vegetables: diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition – Garlic: minced fresh garlic or garlic powder – Spices: smoked paprika, Italian seasoning blend, or a pinch of cayenne for a little kick
How do you ensure the stuffing stays moist and flavorful?
To keep your crock pot stuffing moist and flavorful: – Use a sufficient amount of liquid, such as broth, milk, or a combination of both. – Add wet ingredients like butter, cheese, or sautéed vegetables before combining with dry bread cubes. – Avoid overmixing the stuffing to maintain a light and airy texture. – If the stuffing appears too dry, add a splash of broth or milk while reheating. – For extra moisture, incorporate cooked and chopped vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans into the stuffing.
Can I make this crock pot chicken and stuffing ahead of time and reheat?
Yes, you can prepare the crock pot chicken and stuffing ahead of time and reheat them separately before combining. Store the cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. The stuffing can be made a day ahead, cooled, and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, combine the chicken and stuffing in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them separately and mix them together in a large pot on the stovetop.
