Hello, my lovely food friends! It’s Chef Caroline here, and today I want to share a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: a busy weekday, the aroma of savory spices wafting through your cozy kitchen, and a delicious meal bubbling away in your trusty Crockpot. That’s the magic of my Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing.
This recipe came to me on one of those days when I needed something easy but oh-so-satisfying to serve my family. I first stumbled upon it during a potluck, where a dear friend melted my heart (and taste buds) with her version. The flavors were so rich, it felt like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a rainy day. Since then, it’s become a beloved staple in our home, and I know it will find a special place in yours, too. I promise, the combination of tender chicken, fluffy stuffing, and the gentle notes of garlic and onion will make your kitchen feel like the haven it truly is.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: Just throw everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work for you!
- Time-Saver: Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends – either way, your dinner will be ready when you are.
- Flavor Packed: The delicious mingling of spices and chicken broth creates a comforting and hearty dish.
- Birthday Suit for the Whole Family: It pleases even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, they won’t be able to resist!
- Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day, making lunch a breeze.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast – Choose boneless for tender bites or bone-in for added flavor.
- 1 can green beans, drained – A simple veggie boost; they add a nice crunch and bright color.
- 1 box stuffing mix – The star of the dish! Feel free to pick your favorite flavor for an even unique twist.
- 1 cup chicken broth – This keeps the chicken moist and infuses the stuffing with flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped – The aromatic base will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – For that delicious garlic punch – who doesn’t love it?
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon pepper – A little spice goes a long way!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Place the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breast in the bottom of your Crockpot. This will be the cozy bed for all that deliciousness to come!
2. Add Aromatics
Sprinkle the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken. As you do this, take a moment to inhale the aromas; they’ll only get better!
3. Pour the Broth
Gently pour the chicken broth over the chicken. You’ll hear a delightful slosh – that’s the sound of comfort cooking.
4. Mix the Stuffing and Beans
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix and green beans. The textures here are a wonderful contrast; it’s already starting to feel like home!
5. Spoon on Top
Spoon the stuffing mixture right on top of the chicken and broth in your Crockpot. It should look like a fluffy cloud of goodness waiting to cook up!
6. Cover and Cook
Cover the Crockpot and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours. You can go about your day while the magic happens!
7. Serve and Enjoy
When it’s done, serve warm and watch everyone gather around the table, wanting to dig in! The smells will draw them like magic!
Pro Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the Crockpot.
- Check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Experiment with different stuffing flavors, from cornbread to herb and garlic, to switch things up!
Flavor Variations
- Seasonal Add-ins: Add diced apples or cranberries for a festive touch.
- Spice it Up: Stir in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Note: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a homemade iced tea can balance the heartiness of the meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the chicken, onions, and spices the night before and store them in the refrigerator. It makes the morning even more accessible! The cooked dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Leftovers
Reimagine those leftovers by shredding the chicken and mixing it with the stuffing for a delightful chicken stuffing casserole. Or use it as a filling for delicious burritos, adding some cheese and hot sauce for an easy lunch!
Freezing
Yes! You can freeze leftovers. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label them. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. When it’s time to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For reheating, the microwave is the quickest method. However, for an even richer texture, heat up the casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just note that you may need to extend the cooking time slightly. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for stuffing mix?
Feel free to use quinoa, rice, or even homemade bread cubes if you prefer a different base.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free stuffing and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Of course! Just trim and chop them, and add them in step 4. Fresh green beans will add a lovely vibrant crunch!
Final Thoughts
Life can get hectic, but cooking doesn’t have to be! I hope this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe fills your home with warmth and joy as you gather with loved ones. It’s more than just a meal; it’s about creating moments that you’ll treasure long after dinner is over. Happy cooking, dear friends! And remember, every good meal starts with a sprinkle of love. Until next time, keep it cozy! ❤️
Full Recipe Card Below
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1 can green beans, drained
- 1 box stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breast in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix and green beans.
- Spoon the stuffing mixture on top of the chicken and broth in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is heated.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless or bone-in Choose boneless for tender bites or bone-in for added flavor.
- 1 can green beans, drained A simple veggie boost; they add a nice crunch and bright color.
- 1 box stuffing mix The star of the dish! Feel free to pick your favorite flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth This keeps the chicken moist and infuses the stuffing with flavor.
- 1 each onion, chopped The aromatic base will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder For that delicious garlic punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon pepper A little spice goes a long way!
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breast in the bottom of your Crockpot.
- Sprinkle the chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Gently pour the chicken broth over the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix and green beans.
- Spoon the stuffing mixture right on top of the chicken and broth in your Crockpot.
- Cover the Crockpot and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!