Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing: The Busy Mom’s Sanity-Saver
Okay, let’s talk Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing, fellow busy moms! I know, I know…another recipe. But trust me on this one. This isn’t just any dish; it’s a sanity-saver that brings comfort and nutrition to your table with minimal effort. Forget complicated recipes and endless prep – this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is about giving yourself a break without sacrificing a wholesome meal for your family.
Are you looking for an easy crockpot chicken recipe? You’re in the right place!
I remember the first time I made Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing. My youngest was teething, my oldest had a mountain of homework, and I was staring into the fridge, completely uninspired. I needed something comforting, something nutritious, and something… well, something I could practically set and forget. That’s when the idea hit me. I had a box of stuffing mix, some chicken breasts, and a can of cream of chicken soup. Could I actually make a decent meal in the crockpot with that? The answer, thankfully, was a resounding YES!
That first Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing was a revelation. The chicken was tender, the stuffing was flavorful, and the whole house smelled amazing. Even better, everyone ate it without complaint (a rare dinnertime victory in my house!). It became a regular in our rotation because it’s a complete meal that requires so little hands-on time. This Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a nutrition win because it combines protein, carbs, and you can easily add veggies on the side for a well-rounded meal!
I call this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing a dinnertime win!
What I love most about this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is how adaptable it is. You can use different types of stuffing, add veggies directly into the crockpot, or even swap out the cream of chicken soup for a healthier alternative. It’s all about making it work for your family and your preferences.
If you’re seeking a simple, nourishing way to feed your family without the dinnertime drama, then join me! Let’s dive into this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe together. I promise, it’s easier than you think, and your family will thank you for it. Let’s get started!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Trust me, this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (6 ounce) package of stuffing mix
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
No worries if you don’t have cream of chicken soup – I sometimes use a homemade version or even a can of cream of mushroom for a slightly different flavor profile in my Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. I often stock up on stuffing mix when it’s on sale, so I always have it on hand for this easy meal.
Here’s a Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I add a handful of chopped celery and onion to the bottom of the crockpot before adding the chicken. It adds extra veggies and flavor!
This Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. Chicken breasts are often on sale, and stuffing mix is very budget-friendly. For an even healthier twist, use whole-wheat stuffing mix.
For ingredient prep shortcuts, I sometimes buy pre-chopped celery and onions to save even more time. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a sprinkle of dried sage to the stuffing mix – it complements the thyme beautifully and adds a boost of antioxidants. It’s also amazing as a Thanksgiving crockpot recipe if you need to save oven space.
Remember, this easy crockpot chicken recipe is all about making it work for you. Don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. The goal is simple nutrition and happy bellies!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing – learn from my experience! Follow these steps to deliciousness:
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This prevents the chicken and stuffing from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing usually takes about 6-8 hours on low, so plan accordingly.
- Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Don’t worry if your Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing looks a little plain at this point – the magic is about to happen!
- Mix the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, melted butter, and chicken broth. Mix well until the stuffing is moistened. I like to use my hands to make sure everything is evenly combined.
- Add the Stuffing: Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Gently press down to ensure the stuffing is in contact with the chicken. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! While your Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
- Pour the Soup: Spread the cream of chicken soup evenly over the stuffing. This helps to keep the stuffing moist and adds a creamy, comforting flavor. Your Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing should smell nourishing by now – that’s your cue that deliciousness is on its way!
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the stuffing should be tender. To be sure, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Shred and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks directly in the crockpot. This helps to distribute the chicken throughout the stuffing.
- Serve with Love: Serve hot and enjoy!
Here’s a nutrition shortcut: I often double the recipe and freeze half for another busy weeknight. It’s a sanity-saver!
Remember, the beauty of this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is its simplicity. Don’t stress about making it perfect – just follow the steps and enjoy the process. And most importantly, enjoy feeding your family a nourishing and delicious meal!
Quick Tip: I sometimes add a splash of milk or cream to the cream of chicken soup for extra creaminess.
How We Love to Eat This!
The kids devour this nutritious Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing when I serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad. My husband loves it with a dollop of cranberry sauce, especially around the holidays.
This Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I often make it on Sundays, so we have a comforting and easy meal ready for Monday.
For presentation, I like to sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top of the Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness. To ensure it is an easy crockpot chicken recipe I can follow.
Leftovers are fantastic! I use them to make chicken salad sandwiches or add them to a soup for extra flavor and protein. To reheat leftovers, I add a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist.
During the fall, I sometimes add chopped apples and cranberries to the stuffing mix for a seasonal twist. The kids love the added sweetness!
When friends come over for dinner, they always rave about this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and easy to make.
Here are a few kid-approved healthy side dishes that work well with this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing:
- Steamed broccoli with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
- Baby carrots with hummus.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
These sides are quick, easy, and add extra nutrients to the meal. My kids especially love the steamed broccoli with parmesan cheese – it’s a great way to get them to eat their greens!
Remember, making healthy food appealing to families is all about presentation and flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sides and garnishes to find what your family loves. The goal is to make mealtimes enjoyable and nourishing for everyone.
This nutritious Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing reminds me of another family-healthy favorite – turkey crockpot stuffing! It’s great for the holidays or any time you have leftover turkey.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you have questions, fellow moms, and I’m here to answer them! Here are some common concerns I’ve heard about Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing:
Q: Is this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing really nutritious enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for growth and development. You can also add extra veggies to the crockpot for added nutrients. My kids love it when I add chopped carrots and celery!
Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing?
A: Start by offering a small portion alongside something they already enjoy. You can also try pureeing some veggies into the cream of chicken soup for added nutrients without them even knowing! It is a comfort food slow cooker your family will love!
Q: Can I meal prep this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! You can assemble the crockpot the night before and store it in the fridge. Just take it out in the morning and turn on the slow cooker. It’s a huge time-saver!
Q: Can I use different types of stuffing mix?
A: Of course! I’ve used everything from traditional bread stuffing to cornbread stuffing. Experiment and find your family’s favorite!
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for best results, you can use frozen chicken breasts in a pinch. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time and make sure the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I make this without cream of chicken soup?
A: Yes! You can make your own cream sauce using chicken broth, milk, and a little cornstarch. Or, you can use a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the stuffing from getting soggy?
A: Make sure you don’t add too much chicken broth to the stuffing mix. It should be moist but not soupy. Also, avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking, as this can release moisture.
Remember, this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is all about making it work for your family. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your tastes and preferences. And most importantly, have fun! If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for crockpot stuffing!
Final Thoughts:
This Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing has become a staple in our house because it’s a simple, delicious, and nourishing meal that everyone enjoys. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
This chicken and dressing crockpot is a staple in our house!
Here are a few My Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing Nutrition Hacks:
- Add extra veggies: I always sneak in some chopped celery, carrots, and onions for added nutrients.
- Use whole-wheat stuffing mix: This adds extra fiber to the meal.
- Make your own cream sauce: This allows you to control the ingredients and avoid processed foods.
Here are a few family-tested healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing variations:
- Cranberry Chicken and Stuffing: Add chopped cranberries and a splash of orange juice to the stuffing mix for a festive twist.
- Mushroom Chicken and Stuffing: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup and add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot.
- Spicy Chicken and Stuffing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mix for a little kick.
My husband loves the mushroom version, while the kids prefer the classic Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing with extra veggies. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and find the variations that your family loves best.
I hope this recipe helps you bring a little more simplicity and nourishment to your family’s table. Remember, you don’t have to be a perfect cook to create delicious and healthy meals. It’s all about finding what works for you and your family and enjoying the process.
For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out turmeric chicken soup! It’s another comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
So go ahead, give this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing a try. I have a feeling it will become a new family favorite! You’ve got this, mama! 💖
Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Enjoy a comforting and easy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a flavorful and hearty meal with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (6 ounce) package stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 can (10.75 ounce) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped celery
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped onion
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chicken broth, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, thyme, pepper, celery, and onion (if using). Mix well.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is heated through.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Serve with cranberry sauce and a side of green beans for a complete meal.