There is something wonderfully comforting about the aroma of tender chicken and herby stuffing simmering away in the crockpot. It fills the kitchen with a sense of home, drawing everyone closer as dinner time approaches. This recipe captures that feeling in every bite, offering a dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy days or cozy evenings in. With just the right blend of savory seasonings, creamy textures, and wholesome ingredients, Crockpot Chicken Stuffing is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe is inspired by those chilly evenings when the day’s pace slows and a warm, nourishing meal becomes the centerpiece of comfort. I remember my grandmother making stuffing from scratch during the holidays, her hands moving with practiced ease, the scent of sage and butter filling the air. The crockpot version brings that same nostalgia, but with the convenience of modern cooking — so you can have the flavors of a home-cooked feast without spending hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Stuffing has a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome, where it was often used to fill poultry and other meats. Over the centuries, every culture has put its own spin on it, with herbs, bread, and seasonings varying by region. In the United States, stuffing became a holiday staple, often baked inside the turkey. The crockpot adaptation was born from a love of slow cooking and the desire to enjoy those flavors all year round, without waiting for a holiday.
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Crockpot Chicken Stuffing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A comforting and flavorful dish of tender chicken and herby stuffing cooked to perfection in the crockpot, perfect for busy days or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 oz boxed stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 small diced onion
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Set your crockpot to low or high, depending on desired cooking time.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, melted butter, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly grease the crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom, sprinkle diced onion and celery over them, then top with stuffing mix. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Gently fluff the stuffing before serving.
- Spoon onto plates and enjoy.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
- For a crisp topping, broil in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes after cooking.
- Add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for more variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Stuffing
Versatile: Enjoy it as a complete meal or pair it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for variety.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients without compromising taste.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and the crockpot does the work for you.
Customizable: Add extra vegetables or swap seasonings to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its familiar, comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in the morning, and dinner is ready by evening.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
A little insider advice goes a long way in making this dish exceptional.
- Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your stuffing.
- Layer chicken first, then stuffing mix, then soup for even cooking.
- Avoid over-stirring; it keeps the stuffing from becoming mushy.
- If you like a crispy top, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for a few minutes before serving.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Crockpot: The heart of this recipe, slow cooking to tender perfection.
Mixing Bowl: For combining soup, broth, and seasonings.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise ingredient ratios.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For gentle mixing without crushing the stuffing.
Serving Spoon: To dish out generous portions.
Ingredients in Crockpot Chicken Stuffing
The beauty of this recipe lies in the harmony between savory chicken, herbed bread cubes, and creamy broth.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs), provide lean protein and a tender texture.
- Boxed Stuffing Mix: 6 oz, adds seasoned bread cubes that soak up flavors.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 10.5 oz can, creates creaminess and binds the stuffing.
- Chicken Broth: 1 ½ cups, infuses moisture and depth of flavor.
- Celery: 1 cup diced, adds crunch and freshness.
- Onion: 1 small diced, gives sweetness and aromatic flavor.
- Butter: ¼ cup melted, enriches the stuffing and enhances flavor.
- Dried Sage: 1 tsp, deepens the herby aroma.
- Salt: ½ tsp, seasons the dish.
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp, adds subtle heat.
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you need to swap an ingredient without losing the magic.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Boneless chicken thighs.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Cream of mushroom soup.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Dried Sage: Poultry seasoning.
Ingredient Spotlight
Boxed Stuffing Mix: A convenient shortcut that delivers classic flavor in less time.
Dried Sage: This herb is the soul of stuffing, bringing a warm, earthy aroma.
Instructions for Making Crockpot Chicken Stuffing
Bringing this dish together is as easy as layering and letting time do the work.
- Preheat Your Equipment: Set your crockpot to low or high, depending on your desired cooking time.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, melted butter, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease the crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Dish: Place chicken breasts at the bottom, sprinkle diced onion and celery over them, then top with stuffing mix. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Finishing Touches: Gently fluff the stuffing before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon onto plates and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
The chicken becomes fork-tender while the stuffing turns fluffy with pockets of soft bread and bits of vegetables. The broth and soup meld together, soaking into the bread cubes for a rich, herby bite in every forkful.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh celery and onion for the best crunch and flavor.
- For a creamier stuffing, add an extra half can of soup.
- If cooking on high, check the chicken’s doneness at the 3-hour mark.
What to Avoid
- Don’t use too much broth or the stuffing will become soggy.
- Avoid lifting the lid often, as it releases heat and extends cooking time.
- Don’t over-shred the chicken before serving to keep it juicy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 340
Note: These are approximate values.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, place it in the base and start cooking. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to retain moisture.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Stuffing
Pair it with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal. A drizzle of homemade gravy over the top can make it even more indulgent.
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Turn leftovers into a chicken and stuffing casserole with extra cheese.
- Make stuffing-stuffed bell peppers.
- Use in a wrap with cranberry sauce for a holiday-inspired lunch.
Additional Tips
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Make It a Showstopper
Serve it in a large white ceramic dish with a garnish of fresh herbs. Place a serving spoon in the center so guests can help themselves, creating a warm, communal vibe.
Variations to Try
- Add diced mushrooms for an earthy note.
- Mix in dried cranberries for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a Thanksgiving twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking.
2. Can I make this without canned soup?
Yes, use a homemade white sauce instead.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free stuffing mix and soup.
4. Can I cook it on high?
Yes, for 3–4 hours.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely, carrots or peas work well.
6. Will the stuffing get crispy in the crockpot?
Not usually; for crispiness, broil after cooking.
7. Can I prepare it overnight?
It’s best cooked the day you plan to serve it.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure your crockpot is large enough.
9. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and soup alternatives.
10. Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, both cooked and uncooked versions can be frozen.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Stuffing is the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s simple, satisfying, and brimming with flavor, perfect for both busy weekdays and special gatherings. Trust me, you’re going to love this — it’s worth every bite.