Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this slow cooker chicken and dressing recipe! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Forget hours spent slaving over a hot stove – let your slow cooker do the work while you relax. This recipe delivers all the delicious flavors of traditional chicken and dressing, with minimal effort and maximum taste. It's a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated for modern living!
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces, or 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and celery to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Sprinkle the dried sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetables.
Slow cook the chicken:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
Make the dressing:
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set aside to cool slightly. Shred the chicken, discarding the bones and skin.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and milk (or broth) until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter.
- Add the shredded chicken to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
Combine and finish:
- Pour the chicken and dressing mixture back into the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving (optional).
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dressing:
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth, but boneless cooks faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, marjoram, or even a pinch of nutmeg would be delicious additions.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken and onions.
- Leftovers: This dish is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Cranberry Chicken and Dressing: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
- Wild Rice Chicken and Dressing: Substitute wild rice for some or all of the bread crumbs for a more nutritious and flavorful twist.
- Spicy Chicken and Dressing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your chicken and the specific ingredients used. For a general idea using a 3-4 lb chicken and standard ingredients:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This slow cooker chicken and dressing recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. It's perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you're craving a hearty and flavorful meal. Enjoy!