Craving a warm, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This crockpot chicken and stuffing recipe combines tender chicken thighs with savory stuffing, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that will fill your home with delightful aromas and leave your family asking for seconds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 box of stuffing mix (12 oz)
– 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of chopped celery
– 1/2 cup of chopped onion
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 6-8 hours on low heat.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with stuffing) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by preparing the stuffing mix according to the package instructions.
2. In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth.
3. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken.
6. Pour the soup and broth mixture over the stuffing.
7. Add chopped celery and onion on top.
8. Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat.
9. Cook for 6-8 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
10. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option and add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with cranberry sauce or a tangy vinaigrette.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances flavor.
– Ensure to layer the stuffing properly for even cooking.
– Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
– Make sure to cover the crockpot tightly to retain moisture.
– Avoid using frozen chicken; it may not cook evenly.
– Stirring the mixture too much can lead to mushy stuffing.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
– For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme.
– Consider using day-old bread for the stuffing for better texture.
– If you want a crispy top, you can broil it for a few minutes after cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken as it may not cook evenly in the crockpot. Thawing it beforehand will yield better results.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts, whole grain stuffing, and low-sodium soup and broth options.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and start cooking in the morning!
What if I don’t have stuffing mix?
You can make your own stuffing using stale bread, broth, and your choice of herbs and seasonings.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Conclusion
Crockpot chicken and stuffing is a deliciously easy meal that brings comfort to your table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy days or family gatherings. Enjoy the warm, savory goodness that will make your kitchen the heart of your home!
Crockpot Chicken And Stuffing
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box of stuffing mix 12 oz
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of chopped celery
- 1/2 cup of chopped onion
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions.
- Combine cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth in a bowl.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Spread prepared stuffing over the chicken.
- Pour soup and broth mixture over the stuffing.
- Add chopped celery and onion on top.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat.
- Cook for 6-8 hours until chicken is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.