If there’s one dish that wraps comfort, ease, and deliciousness all into one, it has to be this Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe. Picture tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection under a blanket of savory stuffing and creamy sauce, all melding together effortlessly in your crockpot. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for busy days or those cozy evenings when you want something hearty without the fuss. This recipe truly transforms simple pantry staples into an unforgettable home-cooked classic that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. Each component plays a key role—from juicy chicken breasts that provide a tender base, to the stuffing mix that adds a satisfying, herby bite, to the creamy sauce that brings everything together in delightful harmony.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein center of this recipe that cooks slow and stays juicy.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix: Adds herby, savory texture that crisps up nicely when fluffed.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Provides a rich, creamy sauce that melds flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Ensures the stuffing stays moist and flavorful throughout cooking.
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (optional: green beans, mixed veggies): A great way to sneak in extra nutrition and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the meat is flavorful right from the start. Place the chicken neatly at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a perfect base layer for the stuffing and sauce to come.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth to hydrate it just right. If you’re adding frozen vegetables like green beans or mixed veggies, fold them in now to distribute color and texture through every bite. Spread this savory mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Next up, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This luscious layer will seep downward as it cooks, keeping the stuffing moist and the chicken tender. Carefully spread this sauce over the bed of stuffing, sealing in all those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. During this slow cooking process, the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the stuffing absorbs all the savory juices and creaminess. The aroma alone is enough to make you eager for dinnertime!
Step 5: Finish and Fluff
Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and fluff the stuffing gently with a fork to introduce some lightness to the texture. Your Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe is now ready to serve, offering a beautiful blend of creamy, hearty, and comforting goodness straight from the crockpot.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can make this dish feel even more special. Fresh chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of bright, herby freshness that complements the creamy goodness perfectly. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top also gives an inviting appearance and a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted carrots for extra warmth and texture. Steamed green beans or a crisp side salad can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving it in individual ramekins or mini cocottes, giving everyone their own cozy portion. You can even turn the leftovers into a delicious pot pie by adding some flaky pastry on top and baking it until golden. Presentation can turn this down-home favorite into a delight for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, any leftovers from the Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the cozy comfort of this dish again with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags, labeling with the date. Frozen portions will retain their taste and texture for up to 2 months, giving you a handy homemade meal whenever you need it.
Reheating
When reheating, it’s best to thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight for even warming. Gently reheat in the microwave or stovetop until piping hot, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the stuffing moist. This way, the tender chicken and creamy stuffing maintain their delicious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can! Bone-in chicken may require a bit more cooking time, but it adds extra flavor as it cooks. Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Is it necessary to add sour cream to the sauce?
Sour cream adds a creamy tang and richness to the sauce, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese if you prefer. Each variation will slightly change the flavor profile but still result in a delicious sauce.
Can I add different vegetables to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite frozen or fresh vegetables, such as peas, corn, or mushrooms. Just adjust the quantity so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors and the stuffing remains balanced.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It should be tender and easily shred with a fork. Cooking on low for 6 to 7 hours usually guarantees perfect doneness.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve more people, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume. You may also need to increase the cooking time slightly to make sure everything is heated through properly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how comforting and effortless the Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe comes together. It’s the perfect blend of cozy, hearty, and flavorful that makes it a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe promises a satisfying meal that feels special with so little effort. Give it a try, and I bet it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to slow cooker dishes too!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is an easy, comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked beneath a savory layer of traditional stuffing mix and a creamy chicken sauce, with optional vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish requiring minimal prep and hands-off cooking, ideal for a family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing Mix
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (optional: green beans, mixed veggies)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Place them in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Mix the stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth. If desired, stir in the frozen vegetables to add extra texture and nutrients. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Create the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with the sour cream until smooth and well combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the stuffing layer in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW setting for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the stuffing will have absorbed the flavorful juices.
- Serve: Before serving, fluff the stuffing gently with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the chicken and stuffing warm. For a complete balanced meal, pair it with sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Optional frozen vegetables are a great way to add nutrition and color to the dish without extra prep.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are thawed before cooking for even cooking results.
- You can customize the stuffing mix flavor to your liking, such as herb or savory varieties.
- If you prefer a crustier topping, after slow cooking, transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake uncovered at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
