recipe for chicken and stuffing in crock pot
The Best recipe for chicken and stuffing in crock pot
Oh, this chicken and stuffing in the crock pot recipe is one of those simple, foolproof dishes that just makes everything better. I’ve been making it since before my kids were old enough to remember Thanksgiving, and honestly, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug—warm, comforting, and full of flavor without any fuss. There’s something about slow-cooked chicken that’s so tender, almost like it’s melting in your mouth, and the stuffing gets all airy and golden, perfect for stuffing into the bird or eating on its own. My family loves it because it’s easy to prep ahead, so I can spend more time with them rather than standing over a stove. The kids, especially the picky ones, always ask for seconds because it’s not too heavy—just enough hearty goodness without being overwhelming.
I also love how this recipe can be adjusted to fit different dietary needs. If someone wants a lighter version, I can swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or use whole wheat stuffing mix. And for the health-conscious folks in my family, the chicken is packed with lean protein, and the stuffing can be made with more veggies like carrots and celery to boost the fiber. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but isn’t, which is why it’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, the crock pot does all the work, so I don’t have to stress about timing or temperature—just throw everything in, set it, and let it cook while I handle other things. My kids and I love that it’s a no-stress recipe that still tastes like home.
Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken braised 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
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups bread cubes (white or whole wheat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if using a separate baking dish for stuffing. In a mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, celery, green onions, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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2 In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, butter, and olive oil. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and stir until fully combined. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish.
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3 In a crock pot, combine chicken breasts, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour chicken broth over the chicken. Stir gently and place the crock pot on low.
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4 Cook the chicken for 3 hours on low. Remove chicken from the crock pot and set aside. In the same crock pot, combine tomato sauce, chicken broth, butter, flour, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 15 minutes on low.
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5 Return the chicken to the crock pot with the sauce. Bake the stuffing in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve chicken and stuffing together with the sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing Works
This crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe is always a reliable crowd-pleaser because it’s simple to prepare ahead of time while keeping the flavors rich and tender. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual family get-together, this method ensures everything cooks evenly without fuss, making it perfect for busy hosts who still want a hearty meal that feels special. Plus, the stuffing soaks up all the juices from the chicken, so there’s no wasteful leftovers—just a satisfying, hands-off dinner that leaves everyone happy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing
How do I prepare the chicken for the crock pot to ensure it’s tender and juicy?
To achieve tender and juicy chicken, start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder). Pat them dry and place them in the crock pot, skin-side up if using breasts. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, or a simple lemon-garlic marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.
What type of stuffing should I use in the crock pot, and how do I make it?
You can use a classic bread stuffing recipe or a quick version with store-bought bread cubes. For the crock pot, mix 2 cups of cooked chicken (reserved from earlier) with 1 cup of bread cubes (toasted in a dry skillet for 5 minutes), 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped celery, onions, and herbs (like sage or parsley). For extra richness, add a splash of chicken stock or a bit of cream cheese. Stir well and place the stuffing in the crock pot before adding the chicken.
What’s the best crock pot setting for cooking chicken and stuffing together?
For a slow-cooked, fall-apart chicken and stuffing, use the Low setting for 6–8 hours or the High setting for 4–5 hours, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. If you prefer a more tender texture, Low is ideal, but High works well for slightly quicker cooking. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuffing mixture 1–2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer it to the crock pot and cook on Low for 1–2 hours or High for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re serving it the next day, you can also reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
What are some variations I can try with this crock pot chicken and stuffing recipe?
For a twist, consider adding ingredients like sausage, mushrooms, or dried cranberries to the stuffing for extra depth. You can also experiment with different seasonings—try a Cajun-style with paprika, cayenne, and bell peppers or a herb-roasted version with fresh rosemary and thyme. For a creamy touch, blend a portion of the stuffing with a little cream cheese or sour cream before mixing it back in. Another option is to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness.
