Chicken stuffing, that quintessential Thanksgiving side dish, takes on a whole new level of ease and flavor when prepared in a slow cooker. This crock pot chicken stuffing recipe delivers all the comforting textures and tastes you crave, without the fuss of oven-bound baking. Get ready to impress your guests (and yourself!) with this simple yet elevated dish.
Why Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing?
The beauty of making stuffing in a slow cooker lies in its hands-off approach. You simply toss the ingredients into the crock pot, set it, and forget it (almost!). This allows for even cooking and maximum flavor development, resulting in a moist, tender, and perfectly seasoned stuffing every single time. No more dry, crumbly disappointments! Plus, it frees up valuable oven space, especially crucial during holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 8 cups cubed bread (day-old is best!)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the sautéed vegetables, cubed chicken, bread cubes, chicken broth, milk, sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is moist and heated throughout. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Garnish & Serve: Stir in fresh parsley (if using) before serving. Serve hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite roasted chicken or turkey.
What are some variations for Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing?
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different additions to customize it to your liking. Some popular variations include:
- Adding Sausage: Brown 1 lb of Italian sausage before adding it to the slow cooker for a heartier stuffing.
- Using Different Bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as cornbread, sourdough, or even rolls.
- Adding Cranberries: A handful of dried cranberries adds a sweet and tart touch.
- Boosting the Herbs: Feel free to increase the amount of herbs to suit your preference. Fresh herbs are always a great option too!
- Using Wild Rice: Incorporating wild rice adds a nutty flavor and a beautiful texture contrast.
How long does Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing last?
Leftover Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time when you're ready to cook it.
Is Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing healthy?
While not strictly a "health food," this recipe can be made relatively healthy by using whole-wheat bread, reducing the amount of butter or oil, and adding plenty of vegetables.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing?
Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Some excellent options include: roasted turkey or chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce. It's also great as a standalone lunch or light dinner.
This slow cooker chicken stuffing recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!
