Introduction
This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing is the ultimate comfort food—simple, delicious, and hassle-free. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The chicken turns tender and juicy as it slow-cooks, while the stuffing absorbs all the rich flavors, making it an effortless one-pot dish.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Slow cooker meals have been a staple in American households since the invention of the Crock-Pot in the 1970s. The concept of stuffing, however, dates back centuries, traditionally used to enhance poultry dishes with seasoned bread and aromatics. This recipe brings together the convenience of modern slow cooking with the timeless appeal of a classic, homestyle chicken and stuffing dish.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ cup no-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for variation)
- 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix
- ¼ cup water
Optional Additions
- Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the stuffing before serving.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
- Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs for texture.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook: Slow cookers can vary; check the chicken’s internal temp (165°F) to prevent dryness.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: This prevents the dish from becoming overly salty, especially with stuffing mix.
- For Crispier Stuffing: Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or broil in the oven for 5 minutes after slow cooking.
- Try Dark Meat: If you prefer extra tenderness, substitute with boneless chicken thighs.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken to keep it moist while cooking.
2. Mix the Stuffing
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, stuffing mix, and water.
- Stir until the stuffing mix is evenly coated.
3. Layer and Cook
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6-7 hours, until the chicken is tender.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Carefully scoop out chicken and stuffing onto plates.
- Pair with steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Description
This dish is the definition of comfort food—tender, juicy chicken topped with flavorful stuffing that soaks up all the delicious broth and creamy soup. It’s rich, savory, and satisfying, yet incredibly easy to make with minimal effort.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)
- Calories: 380-450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg (varies by stuffing mix & broth used)
Conclusion and Recommendation
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, delicious meal that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor, this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing is perfect. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and can be customized to suit your taste.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version:
- Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup to cut down on fat.
- Opt for whole wheat stuffing mix for added fiber.
- Reduce sodium by using homemade stuffing and low-sodium broth.
- Increase veggies to boost the nutritional profile.
Enjoy this effortless, comforting dish that brings warmth to your table with every bite!