Introduction
What if you could create a complete, comforting holiday-style dinner using just one appliance? While many believe a flavorful meal requires hours of stove-top attention, this easy Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe delivers incredible depth of flavor with minimal hands-on effort.
This dish perfectly combines tender chicken with savory herb stuffing and creamy soup for a satisfying, all-in-one meal. It’s the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight or a stress-free potluck contribution, proving that your slow cooker is capable of far more than just soups and stews.
Ingredients
This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting, savory meal with tender chicken and a flavorful, herbed topping.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, can be omitted)
- 1 (6 oz) box dry stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
Timing
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 4 hours on Low |
Total Time | 4 hours 15 minutes |
Context: This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes that require oven baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. This step ensures a flavorful base for your Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing.
Step 2 — Layer the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the pot.
Step 3 — Combine the Stuffing Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with one can of cream of chicken soup and one cup of chicken broth. Stir until the ingredients are just moistened. For a richer flavor, you can use a cream of mushroom or celery soup instead.
Step 4 — Add the Stuffing Topping
Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crock pot. Do not stir. Spread it into an even layer to ensure it cooks uniformly.
Step 5 — Cook on Low Heat
Place the lid securely on the crock pot and cook the Chicken and Stuffing on the LOW setting for 4-6 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with a fork.
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can significantly increase the cooking time.
Step 6 — Check for Doneness
After 4 hours, carefully check the internal temperature of the largest chicken breast with a meat thermometer. If it hasn’t reached 165°F, continue cooking, checking every 30 minutes.
Step 7 — Let it Rest and Serve
Once cooked, turn off the crock pot and let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes with the lid on. This allows the stuffing to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories | 420 |
Protein | 28g |
Carbohydrates | 35g |
Fat | 18g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sodium | 980mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.
Healthier Alternatives
- Turkey Breast — A leaner protein alternative that pairs wonderfully with the savory stuffing, offering a lighter version of this Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing.
- Cauliflower Rice Stuffing — For a lower-carb option, replace traditional bread cubes with riced cauliflower for a flavorful, grain-free base.
- Dairy-Free Cream Soup — Use a creamy mushroom or celery soup made with coconut milk or almond milk to create a rich, dairy-free Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing.
- Gluten-Free Bread Cubes — Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free bread to make the stuffing component safe for those with sensitivities.
- Low-Sodium Broth & Seasonings — Control the salt content by using a low-sodium or no-salt-added chicken broth and fresh herbs instead of pre-mixed seasoning packets.
- Plant-Based Chicken — Use a high-quality meatless chicken alternative to create a vegetarian version of this comforting dish.
- Quinoa Stuffing — Incorporate cooked quinoa into or in place of the bread for added protein and a nutritious, whole-grain twist.
- Extra Vegetables — Boost the fiber and nutrients by adding more chopped celery, carrots, onions, or mushrooms directly into the Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing mix.
Serving Suggestions
- For a classic comfort meal, serve this Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing alongside steamed green beans or roasted carrots.
- Pair it with a simple cranberry sauce or a tangy apple salad to cut through the richness.
- This dish is perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner or a hassle-free holiday potluck.
- Elevate your plating by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
- Serve the Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
- For a lighter option, accompany it with a crisp garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- This recipe is an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights, as the flavors meld beautifully when reheated.
This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a versatile centerpiece that makes any meal feel special with minimal effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using dry, unseasoned stuffing mix straight from the box. Fix: Moisten the stuffing mix with broth or melted butter before adding it to ensure a flavorful, moist result.
- Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, leading to a dry, stringy texture. Fix: Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Mistake: Adding the cream of chicken soup undiluted, which can make the dish too thick. Fix: Whisk the condensed soup with a little milk or broth to create a smooth, saucy base.
- Mistake: Layering ingredients incorrectly, causing the stuffing to become soggy. Fix: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and layer the stuffing mix on top.
- Mistake: Forgetting to season the chicken directly, relying only on the other ingredients for flavor. Fix: Generously season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs like sage or thyme before adding it to the pot.
- Mistake: Lifting the lid frequently to check on the dish, which releases heat and increases cooking time. Fix: Trust the process and only remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to check for doneness.
- Mistake: Not letting the Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing rest before serving. Fix: Let it sit for 10-15 minutes with the power off to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Mistake: Using frozen chicken breasts, which can lead to uneven cooking and food safety risks. Fix: Always thaw chicken completely in the refrigerator before starting the recipe.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store your Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat portions in the microwave, covered, until steaming hot, or in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Always ensure your Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing has cooled to room temperature before storing to maintain food safety and quality.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s a perfect family dinner that practically cooks itself. We hope you love it as much as we do! Give this easy recipe a try and be sure to leave a comment with your review. Don’t forget to subscribe for more simple and tasty slow cooker ideas!
PrintCrockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Comfort food made easy in the slow cooker with tender chicken, creamy soup, and flavorful stuffing mix.
- Author: Sophie Lane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Method: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (6 oz) box dry stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the condensed cream of chicken soup over the chicken breasts.
- Add the sour cream and gently swirl together with the soup using a rubber spatula.
- Sprinkle the diced white onion and dried parsley evenly over the cream mixture.
- In a small bowl, toss the dry stuffing mix with melted butter until combined.
- Sprinkle the buttered stuffing mix evenly over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Optional: Uncover the slow cooker for the last 45 minutes to firm up the stuffing topping.
Notes
Using sour cream adds creaminess and tang, but can be omitted if preferred. Uncovering the slow cooker near the end helps the stuffing texture but is not necessary.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing?
It is not recommended to use frozen chicken. For food safety and even cooking, always use thawed chicken breasts. This ensures your Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing cooks thoroughly and the stuffing reaches a safe temperature.
How can I prevent the stuffing from getting mushy?
To avoid mushy stuffing, use dry, seasoned stuffing mix straight from the package. Do not pre-moisten it. The condensed soup and chicken juices will provide enough moisture as the Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing cooks on low.
What are good side dishes to serve with this meal?
This hearty Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter option, serve it with a simple green salad or steamed green beans like haricots verts.