Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker: the ultimate comfort food, made incredibly easy! Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of savory chicken and perfectly seasoned stuffing, all cooked to tender perfection in your slow cooker. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, and I’m so excited to share my foolproof recipe with you.

Stuffing, in its various forms, has been a staple at tables for centuries, evolving from simple herb-filled bread to the complex and flavorful side dish we know and love today. While often associated with Thanksgiving and other holiday feasts, there’s no reason to limit this delicious combination to special occasions. That’s where the magic of the slow cooker comes in!

People adore this dish for so many reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible – the juicy chicken infused with the savory herbs and spices of the stuffing is a match made in culinary heaven. Second, the texture is divine, with the moist and tender chicken complementing the soft and slightly crispy stuffing. But perhaps the biggest draw is the convenience. With this Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker recipe, you can simply toss everything into your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a complete and satisfying meal. No fuss, no stress, just pure comfort food bliss!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 3-4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, and breasts work well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• For the Stuffing:
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/4 tsp dried marjoram
• 8 cups cubed bread (stale bread works best, such as sourdough, French bread, or a combination)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Add-ins:
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up a bit, even in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika. This is your spice rub!
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken pieces, making sure to get under the skin where possible. This will infuse the chicken with flavor.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the chicken pieces in batches until browned on all sides. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds a lot of flavor and helps to render some of the fat from the skin. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches to ensure proper browning. Each batch should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Preparing the Stuffing:

1. Melt the butter in the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it!). The browned bits from the chicken will add extra flavor to the stuffing.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the dried sage, rosemary, and marjoram. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked vegetables, chicken broth, parsley, and egg. Mix well to ensure the bread is evenly moistened.
5. If you’re using any optional add-ins like dried cranberries, pecans, walnuts, or mushrooms, stir them in now.
6. Season the stuffing with salt and pepper to taste. Be generous with the seasoning, as the bread will absorb a lot of it.

Assembling and Cooking in the Slow Cooker:

1. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This will help prevent the stuffing from sticking.
2. Place half of the stuffing mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
3. Arrange the seared chicken pieces on top of the stuffing. Try to avoid overcrowding the slow cooker; you want the chicken to cook evenly.
4. Top the chicken with the remaining stuffing mixture, spreading it out evenly.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is cooked through.
6. If you want the chicken skin to be a bit crispier, you can remove the chicken and stuffing from the slow cooker and place them under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

Tips and Variations:

• Bread Choice: The type of bread you use for the stuffing will affect the texture. Stale bread works best because it absorbs the moisture without becoming mushy. Sourdough, French bread, or a combination are all good choices.
• Broth: You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even turkey broth for the stuffing. If you want a richer flavor, use homemade broth.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stuffing, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or leeks.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of the stuffing. Thyme, savory, and oregano are all good options.
• Meat: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of bone-in, skin-on pieces. However, the bone-in, skin-on pieces will result in a more flavorful and moist dish. You can also use turkey pieces instead of chicken.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serve with cranberry sauce for a classic Thanksgiving-inspired meal.
• Gravy: If you want to make gravy, you can use the drippings from the slow cooker. Skim off any excess fat and thicken the drippings with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the chicken and cook as directed.
• Slow Cooker Size: This recipe is designed for a 6-quart slow cooker. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to reduce the amount of ingredients.
• Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker recipe is a complete meal in itself, but you can also serve it with side dishes such as:

• Mashed potatoes
• Green bean casserole
• Sweet potato casserole
• Corn on the cob
• Dinner rolls

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftover Chicken and Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Why This Recipe Works:

This slow cooker chicken and stuffing recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Ease of Preparation: It’s incredibly easy to throw together. The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing you up to do other things.
• Flavor: The combination of the savory chicken and flavorful stuffing is a classic for a reason. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Moistness: The slow cooker keeps the chicken incredibly moist and tender, preventing it from drying out.
• Complete Meal: It’s a complete meal in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, herbs, or meats.

Troubleshooting:

• Stuffing is too dry: Add a little more chicken broth to the stuffing mixture before cooking.
• Stuffing is too mushy: Use stale bread and don’t over-moisten the stuffing mixture.
• Chicken is not cooked through: Cook the chicken for a longer period of time, or use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Chicken skin is not crispy: Sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, or broil it for a few minutes after cooking.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker recipe! It’s a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Conclusion:

This Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting classic reimagined for the modern, busy cook. I truly believe you’ll find it’s a game-changer for those days when you crave a home-cooked meal but simply don’t have the hours to spend in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor it delivers with minimal effort. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the savory goodness of perfectly cooked stuffing, all thanks to the magic of your slow cooker. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your family asking for seconds, guaranteed!

But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the ease of preparation, it’s the sheer deliciousness that sets it apart. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly moist and flavorful, while the stuffing absorbs all those wonderful chicken juices, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover stuffing after Thanksgiving or Christmas, giving it a delicious new life. It’s also incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your personal preferences and dietary needs.

Speaking of versatility, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations! I love serving this dish with a side of cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the savory flavors. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts also make excellent accompaniments, adding a healthy dose of vegetables to the meal. For a heartier option, consider adding mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole to the mix.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with different variations? Try using different types of stuffing, such as cornbread stuffing or wild rice stuffing, to create unique flavor profiles. You could also add vegetables like chopped celery, carrots, or onions to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken before cooking. If you’re watching your sodium intake, be sure to use low-sodium chicken broth and stuffing mix. You can even use bone-in chicken thighs for an even richer flavor. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Chicken and Stuffing Slow Cooker recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a casual Sunday dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort, leaving you with more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What sides did you serve with it? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover the joy of this simple yet satisfying recipe. Let’s create a community of slow cooker enthusiasts and share our culinary adventures together! So go ahead, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible dish. Happy cooking!