If you’re craving a comforting, fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken breasts, savory stuffing, and green beans all cooked low and slow, it’s a one-pot wonder that fills your home with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe blends simplicity and flavor in a way that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients sets the foundation for this dish to shine. Each component adds a layer of flavor and texture, making the final result satisfyingly hearty and wholesome.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts: The star protein, which becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a rich, aromatic depth that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings warmth and subtle herbaceous notes.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses gentle savory flavors.
- 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen: For a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to balance the creamy layers.
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: Provides richness and a velvety texture that binds the dish.
- 1 box (6 ounces) stovetop stuffing mix: The crispy topping that turns golden and crunchy during cooking.
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top for that perfect buttery finish that keeps layers separate yet cohesive.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Base with Chicken and Seasonings
Begin by placing your chicken breasts right in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle over the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth. This creates a flavorful, moist base that ensures your chicken will cook evenly and stay juicy throughout the process.
Step 2: Add Green Beans for Freshness and Texture
Next, scatter the green beans over the chicken mixture. Whether fresh or frozen, these beans bring just the right amount of color and a tender-crisp texture to the recipe, keeping it balanced and visually appealing.
Step 3: Spread the Cream of Chicken Soup Without Stirring
Carefully spoon the cream of chicken soup across the surface without mixing it into the ingredients below. This distinct layer is key to creating those deliciously creamy pockets as it simmers, imparting that classic comfort flavor we all crave.
Step 4: Top with Stuffing Mix and Butter
Now, evenly distribute the stovetop stuffing mix over the soup layer. Drizzle the melted butter on top—this not only infuses a rich buttery flavor but also helps keep all the layers beautifully defined while baking low and slow.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow for Ultimate Tenderness
Cover the slow cooker and let everything cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or speed things up by using the high setting for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and the stuffing golden. The result is a cozy, all-in-one meal bursting with comforting flavors.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the dish for a burst of lively color and a hint of herbal brightness. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavors without overpowering the comforting base.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls add a delightful contrast to the texture of the stuffing layer.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve portions in rustic, shallow bowls to showcase the layers of chicken, vegetables, and stuffing. For a special touch, scoop it over fluffy rice or atop a bed of wilted spinach to vary the plate’s texture and add extra nutrients. It also makes a fantastic meal prep option—layered in portable containers ready to brighten your week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld even more as it chills, and it will keep well for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to keep it moist, as the stuffing can absorb liquid and firm up upon sitting.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay juicy, making them a great substitute. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but generally, they work well with this slow cooker recipe.
Do I need to thaw frozen green beans before adding?
No need to thaw them first. Frozen green beans cook perfectly right in the slow cooker along with the other ingredients, saving you time and effort.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can make some swaps, like using dairy-free cream soup alternatives and vegan butter, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might change slightly. The buttery topping is key for that classic taste, so consider using a good quality substitute.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients if your slow cooker is large enough. Be mindful of the cooking time—it might need to be extended to ensure everything cooks evenly throughout.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can mix your own blend of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. This combination mimics the warm, herbal notes Italian seasoning provides, enhancing the overall flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe is a reliable home-cooked classic that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a casual get-together, it’s a dish that brings comfort and ease to your table. Don’t wait to try it out—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes on low
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts layered with garlic, Italian seasoning, green beans, cream of chicken soup, and stovetop stuffing mix, all cooked together for a delicious one-pot meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen
Seasonings and Broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
Soup and Stuffing
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 box (6 ounces) stovetop stuffing mix
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and pour in the chicken broth evenly over the chicken.
- Add green beans: Spread the green beans on top of the chicken mixture in the slow cooker, distributing them evenly for balanced flavor and texture.
- Layer with soup: Carefully spread the cream of chicken soup evenly over the green beans and chicken, taking care not to stir so layers remain distinct.
- Top with stuffing mix: Sprinkle the stovetop stuffing mix evenly over the soup layer. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing to keep the layers separate and help crisp up the topping during cooking.
- Cook until tender: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the stuffing is cooked through.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen green beans based on availability; either works well.
- Do not stir once layers are assembled to ensure a nice layered texture.
- Butter drizzle helps achieve a richer flavor and a slight crisp on the stuffing top.
- Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model, so check for doneness before serving.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
