Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. As the aroma of tender chicken mingles with savory stuffing fills your home, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia. This recipe has roots in traditional family gatherings, where hearty meals were a staple, and it continues to be a favorite for busy weeknights and festive occasions alike. People love this dish not only for its rich flavors and satisfying textures but also for its convenience; the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug, making Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing a go-to recipe for many families.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better to the chicken. 2. In a large bowl, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to coat them evenly. I like to use my hands for this part; it helps to really get the spices into the meat. 3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the chicken. 4. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry about cooking it through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.

Preparing the Stuffing Mixture

5. In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is evenly moistened. If you prefer a moister stuffing, you can add a little more broth. 6. Next, add the cream of chicken soup to the stuffing mixture. Mix well until everything is combined. The cream of chicken soup adds a rich creaminess that makes the stuffing irresistible. 7. Fold in the frozen mixed vegetables. This not only adds color but also a nutritious element to the dish. You can use any frozen vegetables you like, but I find that peas and carrots work particularly well.

Assembling the Slow Cooker

8. Now it’s time to assemble everything in the slow cooker. Start by placing the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly. 9. Pour the stuffing mixture over the chicken breasts, spreading it out evenly. It’s okay if some of the stuffing falls to the sides; it will all cook together beautifully. 10. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to low heat and let it cook for 4-6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high heat for 2-3 hours, but I find that low and slow yields the best results.

Cooking Process

11. About halfway through the cooking time, I like to check on the dish. If you notice that the stuffing is getting too dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Just a little will do! 12. When the cooking time is up, check the chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through. 13. Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. I like to use tongs for this part to avoid any splashes of hot liquid.

Serving the Dish

14. Fluff the stuffing with a fork to separate it a bit. This helps to aerate it and makes it more appealing when serving. 15. To serve, place a chicken breast on each plate and spoon a generous amount of stuffing alongside it. If you have any leftover stuffing, feel free to add that to the plates as well. 16. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top. It adds a lovely color contrast and a burst of flavor. 17. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing! This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or even for meal prep for the week. The leftovers are just as delicious, if not better, the next day.

Tips and Variations

18. If you want to add a little more flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions and celery to the stuffing mixture. Just sauté them in the skillet after you sear the chicken, then mix them in with the stuffing. 19. For a twist, you can use different types of stuffing mix, such as

Conclusion:

In summary, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to create a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and aromatic herbs makes for a dish that is not only satisfying but also perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance out the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite ingredients, such as cranberries for a touch of sweetness or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and connecting, and I can’t wait to see how you bring this dish to life in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Print