There is something special about a home-cooked meal that fills your kitchen with warmth and inviting aromas. Growing up, my family loved hearty, comforting dishes, and one of my mother’s go-to meals was slow-cooked chicken and stuffing. It was easy to prepare, delicious, and always brought everyone to the table with eager anticipation. This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is inspired by that cozy tradition, but with a beginner-friendly twist—it requires minimal prep and simple ingredients while still delivering maximum flavor and comfort.

For busy individuals, parents, or anyone new to cooking, this dish is a lifesaver. It’s a “dump-and-go” meal, meaning you just layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, with the addition of vegetables and a creamy sauce, you get a well-rounded, balanced meal in one pot.

Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing (Also Instant Pot Friendly!) (1)

Why This Recipe is Special

  • Perfect for Beginners: No complicated techniques or special equipment needed. Just layer, set, and let it cook.
  • Time-Saving: A true “set it and forget it” meal, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it simmers to perfection.
  • Comfort Food at Its Best: A creamy, well-seasoned stuffing with tender chicken makes this the ultimate cozy dish.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences with ingredient swaps and additions.

Ingredients and Preparation

This recipe relies on basic pantry staples, making it easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have.

Main Ingredients and Their Roles

  • Chicken Breasts: The protein base of the dish; slow cooking ensures they stay juicy and tender.
  • Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: Simple seasonings that add flavor to the chicken.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a creamy texture and rich taste.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing out the flavors.
  • Stuffing Mix: Acts as the main carb, soaking up the broth and seasonings for a flavorful, hearty bite.
  • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the dish moist and enhances the stuffing’s consistency.
  • Green Beans: Adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the dish.

Optional Add-Ins for Customization

  • Veggies: Try adding carrots, corn, baby potatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Stuffing Mix-Ins: Diced onions, celery, dried cranberries, or cooked sausage can enhance texture and taste.
  • Dairy Substitutes: If you’re out of sour cream, use plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, or a mix of evaporated milk with lemon juice.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Lightly grease the Crock Pot to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the Crock Pot. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.

Step 3: Add the Stuffing

Sprinkle the dry stuffing mix over the top. Pour the remaining broth evenly over the stuffing to help it absorb moisture.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Place green beans (or any chosen vegetables) around the stuffing and chicken, ensuring they get some moisture but remain separate from the stuffing for texture contrast.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set the Crock Pot to high for 4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Adjust the Stuffing Texture

If you prefer firmer stuffing, leave the lid off for the last 30-40 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate. If you want a crispy top, transfer the stuffing to an oven-safe dish and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, serve your chicken and stuffing hot. You can drizzle with gravy for extra flavor or enjoy it as is.

Beginner Tips and Notes

  • How to Tell if Chicken is Done: The chicken should be fork-tender and have an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
  • Avoid Overly Soggy Stuffing: If your stuffing is too wet, uncover the Crock Pot toward the end of cooking, or use slightly less broth next time.
  • Save Time on Prep: Use pre-chopped frozen veggies or pre-seasoned stuffing mix to cut down on preparation time.
  • Make It Healthier: Swap cream of chicken soup for a homemade version or use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Elevate this dish by pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and a quick homemade gravy.
  • With a Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness.
  • As a Casserole: Mix everything together and bake for a golden, crispy finish.

Storage and Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes for best results.

Final Thoughts: Give It a Try!

If you’re looking for an easy, beginner-friendly meal that delivers comfort and satisfaction, this Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a must-try. It requires minimal effort but produces rich, hearty flavors that feel like a homemade classic. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just want a cozy, hassle-free dish, this recipe has you covered.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know your thoughts and any creative variations in the comments! Happy cooking!

FAQ About Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will take slightly longer to cook. If using a Crock Pot, cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 5-6 hours. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with homemade cream of chicken soup, a mixture of Greek yogurt and broth, or evaporated milk with a little flour for a lighter option.

How do I keep the stuffing from getting too soggy?

For firmer stuffing, reduce the broth slightly and leave the Crock Pot lid off for the last 30-40 minutes of cooking. You can also crisp it up by baking it in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes after slow cooking.

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Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing (Also Instant Pot Friendly!) (1)

Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing


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  • Author: Kathryne Taylor
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful stuffing mix, creamy sauce, and veggies. It’s a perfect “dump and go” slow cooker meal for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep while delivering big flavor. Serve it as a casserole-style dish or pair it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a hearty dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1.5 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup (low sodium preferred)
  • 8 oz sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 6 oz box stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh green beans (or frozen)
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • ½ cup diced onions
  • ½ cup diced celery
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup cooked crumbled sausage
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Lightly grease the Crock Pot and place the chicken breasts at the bottom. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to ensure even flavor throughout.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the chicken broth. This creamy mixture adds richness and prevents the chicken from drying out during slow cooking.
  3. Layer the Stuffing: Evenly spread the dry stuffing mix over the chicken. Pour the remaining broth over the stuffing to ensure it absorbs enough moisture while cooking. For extra flavor, toss in optional diced onions, celery, or cooked sausage.
  4. Add the Vegetables: Place green beans around or on top of the stuffing, ensuring they are spread out for even cooking. If using frozen green beans, they may become very soft, so add them in the last hour of cooking for better texture.
  5. Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. If you prefer a firmer stuffing texture, remove the lid for the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to let excess moisture evaporate. For a crispy top, transfer the stuffing to an oven-safe dish and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once fully cooked, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve hot, either as a casserole-style dish or plated with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and a homemade soup substitute.
  • To make it ahead of time, assemble everything in the Crock Pot the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook the next day.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 565
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 1564mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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