Weeknight dinners just got easier (and tastier!) with this incredibly simple Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe. Forget about slaving over a hot stove – this one-pot wonder lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in a juicy, flavorful chicken and perfectly moist stuffing that will become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal without sacrificing flavor or convenience. It's the epitome of homemade cooking, delivering a warm, comforting dish that's both easy and impressive.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (16 ounce) package stuffing mix (herb or savory)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by chopping the onion and celery. This is a great task to get kids involved in, making cooking a family affair!
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Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the overall dish.
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Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the sautéed onions and celery (if using).
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Add Liquid and Stuffing: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly over the top. Stir in the dried cranberries and parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: 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 tender and moist. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Gently stir the shredded chicken back into the stuffing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the stuffing mix for extra flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to the stuffing for added nutrients and texture.
- Use different stuffing: Experiment with different stuffing mixes, such as cornbread stuffing or wild rice stuffing, to change up the flavor profile.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on stuffing mix and additions)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights or when you're craving a comforting and healthy meal. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly delivers on both flavor and convenience, making it a true winner for any home cook. Enjoy!