There’s something so comforting about Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing, isn’t there? It’s that warm, hearty dish that wraps you in a cozy hug after a long day. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the rich aroma filled the house, and everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. This dish is perfect for family meals, especially during those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender chicken paired with savory stuffing creates a symphony of flavors that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your home, just like it has in mine!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to make your Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing a hit at the dinner table!
4 boneless chicken breasts: Try to choose ones that are about the same size for even cooking.
1 box stuffing mix: Any brand you love will work, but I usually go for something herby for an extra flavor boost.
2 cups chicken broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. It adds moisture and flavor!
1 can cream of mushroom soup: This is my secret weapon for creaminess! You can also use chicken soup if you prefer.
1 cup chopped celery: Adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
1 cup chopped onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness, but use whatever you have on hand!
1 tablespoon dried thyme: This herb brings so much warmth and earthiness. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for bringing all those flavors together!
Make sure you have everything you need before you start cooking—trust me, it makes the process so much smoother!
Getting your Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing ready is super straightforward! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that practically cooks itself. Let’s dive right in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Place the chicken: Start by laying the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re spread out nicely—this helps them cook evenly.
Mix the stuffing: In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, chopped celery, chopped onion, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until everything is well blended. The mixture should be nice and moist!
Top the chicken: Now, spread that savory stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. It should look like a cozy blanket of flavor covering the chicken.
Cook it up: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I recommend low and slow for the best tenderness, but choose what fits your schedule!
Check for doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not there yet, just give it a little more time!
And that’s it! Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll be ready to serve up a hearty meal that everyone will love. Don’t worry if you get a little distracted during cooking; this recipe is forgiving and will still turn out delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it! Perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty and satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and savory stuffing creates a filling meal that warms your soul.
Family-friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings.
Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices, tailoring it to your family’s taste.
Easy cleanup: Cooking in a slow cooker means minimal dishes to wash afterward—yay for that!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing turns out perfectly every time? Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to help you achieve the best results:
Don’t skip the seasoning: Make sure to season the chicken before adding the stuffing. A little salt and pepper can go a long way in enhancing the flavor!
Use chicken thighs: If you want even juicier meat, consider swapping the chicken breasts for thighs. They stay tender and flavorful, especially in a slow cooker.
Add more veggies: Feel free to throw in some carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color. Just chop them up small so they cook evenly!
Check your slow cooker: Every slow cooker is a bit different, so keep an eye on the cooking time. If you notice your cooker runs hot, check the chicken a little earlier.
Rest before serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delicious!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delightful meal that your family will be requesting again and again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of my delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. But this should give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g
With this hearty dish, you’ll get a satisfying mix of protein and flavor while keeping things relatively low in fat. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your tummy!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
You can absolutely use frozen chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that when cooking from frozen, you’ll need to extend the cooking time a bit. If you’re cooking on low, aim for about 8 hours, and if you’re on high, plan for around 4-5 hours. It’s crucial to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety, so check it with a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. Trust me, it’s worth the wait when you taste that tender chicken later!
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing?
This dish really shines on its own, but if you want to add some sides, I have a few favorites! Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans work wonderfully—they add a nice crunch and color. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette can also lighten the meal. And if you’re in the mood for comfort, mashed potatoes or roasted carrots make a lovely addition. Just think about balancing the flavors, and you can’t go wrong!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for lunch the next day or a quick dinner! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to portion it out in freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. Easy-peasy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing is a breeze! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them into an airtight container. This way, you’ll keep all those lovely flavors locked in! It’s best to store it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the leftovers. Portion them out into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags—just make sure to label them with the date so you know when they were made. They should keep well for about 2-3 months, making them perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick meal!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat them is gently. If frozen, thaw the chicken stuffing overnight in the refrigerator. Then, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, do it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. On the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to help keep the moisture and heat it over low until warmed through. This way, you’ll keep that creamy texture and delicious flavor intact!
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