chicken and stuffing crock pot recipe
The Best chicken and stuffing crock pot recipe
I’ve been making this chicken and stuffing crock pot recipe almost every Thanksgiving since my kids were little. It’s a simple dish that never disappoints, and honestly, it’s one of those things that feels like a total game-changer for busy weeknights too. The slow cooking means the chicken stays tender and juicy, and the stuffing gets perfectly moist without any of the drying out that happens when you overbake it. My family—especially my kids—love it because it’s comforting, not too heavy, and it’s always a hit at the dinner table. I’ll admit, I used to think stuffing was a bit of a hassle, but this method makes it so easy. You can prep everything ahead of time, and by the time you’re ready to eat, it’s just sitting there, waiting to be served. It’s that kind of recipe that feels special for holidays, but it’s also something we’ll pull out for regular meals when we need something hearty and satisfying without all the fuss.
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it with or without breadcrumbs, swap out the herbs for whatever you have, or even use a mix of stuffing ingredients to keep it interesting. My kids have always been picky eaters, but they’ll usually try a bite of this because it’s not too sweet or greasy—just plain, wholesome, and full of flavor. Plus, the health benefits are pretty nice too. The chicken is lean protein, and the stuffing is packed with veggies like celery and onions, which add fiber and vitamins. I always tell my family that it’s a way to eat something filling without feeling like you’ve overdone it. It’s the kind of meal that’s easy to customize, so whether you’re feeding a crowd for a big occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe works every time. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can spend your time with your loved ones instead of stressing over the stove.
Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
A comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and flavorful stuffing, perfect for a cozy dinner. The dish is easy to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup bread cubes (white or whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, melted butter, chicken broth, celery, onion, parsley, thyme, rosemary, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
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2 In a separate bowl, combine chicken, chicken broth, celery, onion, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, olive oil, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix gently.
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3 Transfer the stuffing mixture to the bottom of the crock pot. Pour the chicken mixture over the stuffing.
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4 Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden and fluffy.
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5 Remove the crock pot from heat, let it rest for 10 minutes, then serve hot in a baking dish if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Baking dish (optional, for serving)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing Works
This chicken and stuffing crock pot recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s hands-off, hearty, and leaves little to no cleanup. The tender chicken and fluffy stuffing come together seamlessly, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want a meal that feels special. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to scale up for bigger crowds and always tastes even better the next day, so it’s a reliable pick for holidays, game days, or just regular family dinners.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
1. What are the main ingredients typically used in a classic chicken and stuffing crock pot recipe?
The main ingredients usually include boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, a mix of bread cubes (like white or sourdough), celery, onions, garlic, butter, chicken broth, herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or sage), and sometimes diced apples or cranberries for added flavor. Optional ingredients may include mushrooms, bacon, and fresh herbs.
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2. How long should the chicken and stuffing mixture cook in the crock pot, and what temperature should it be set to?
Most recipes recommend cooking on Low setting for 6–7 hours or High setting for 3–4 hours, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. For best results, set the crock pot to 250–300°F (120–149°C). Always check the chicken’s internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuffing mixture in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and then cook on Low for 4–6 hours or High for 2–3 hours, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying.
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4. What substitutions can I make if I don’t have certain ingredients, like bread cubes or celery?
– Bread cubes? Use crushed crackers, panko, or even cooked and chopped white rice or quinoa. – Celery? Skip it or replace with extra onions, mushrooms, or a dash of celery seed powder. – Butter? Substitute with olive oil or a mix of melted butter and a little broth to keep moisture. – Herbs? Fresh thyme or rosemary work well; dried herbs can be used at half the amount. – Chicken broth? Water or low-sodium vegetable broth can work, but broth adds better flavor.
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