CROCKPOT CHICKEN AND STUFFING

Of course! Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is the ultimate comfort food dinner that requires minimal effort. It’s creamy, savory, and incredibly easy to make.

Here are two popular versions: a classic “dump-and-go” method and a slightly more decadent option.


Version 1: Classic & Easy “Dump-and-Go” Method

This is the simplest way to make it, with ingredients layered right in the crockpot.

Ingredients

· Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
· Stuffing Mix: 1 (6 oz) box of dry stuffing mix (like Kraft or Stove Top – Savory Herb or Chicken flavor work well)
· Soup: 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom/celery)
· Sour Cream: 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)
· Liquid: ½ cup chicken broth
· Vegetables: 1 cup frozen green beans, mixed vegetables, or chopped celery (optional, for added nutrition)
· Seasoning: ½ tsp poultry seasoning, black pepper, or dried thyme (optional, as the stuffing mix is already seasoned)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot.
  2. Layer Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with a little pepper if desired.
  3. Add Veggies: If using, scatter the frozen vegetables over the chicken.
  4. Mix Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the dry stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until just combined. It will be thick.
  5. Assemble: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
  6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
  7. Serve: Gently stir the casserole to fluff the stuffing and mix the creamy sauce with the chicken. Serve immediately.

Version 2: Decadent “Thanksgiving Style” with Gravy

This version creates a more distinct stuffing layer and a rich gravy, mimicking Thanksgiving flavors.

Ingredients

· Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
· Stuffing Mix: 1 (6 oz) box dry stuffing mix (Herb or Cornbread flavor)
· Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
· Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5 oz) can
· Chicken Broth: ½ cup
· French Fried Onions: 1 (2.8 oz) can (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Grease the crockpot. Place chicken in the bottom and season with pepper.
  2. Make Stuffing: In a bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken.
  3. Make Gravy: In the same bowl (no need to wash!), whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth. Carefully pour this over the stuffing layer. DO NOT STIR.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  5. Crispy Topping (Optional): In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the French fried onions over the top, re-cover, and let them heat through.
  6. Serve: Scoop down to the bottom to get layers of chicken, stuffing, and gravy.

Success Tips & Variations

· Don’t Overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long. If using breasts, check them at the 6-hour mark on low. Thighs are more forgiving and will stay juicier longer.
· Check for Doneness: Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
· Add Cheese: Sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese over the chicken before adding the stuffing layer for a cheesy twist.
· Cranberry Twist: Serve with a side of canned or homemade cranberry sauce for a true Thanksgiving-in-a-bowl experience.
· Vegetable Power: Feel free to add other veggies like sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or chopped carrots along with the chicken.
· Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

This dish is the definition of easy comfort food. Enjoy your meal

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