Enjoy a comforting, hearty meal with this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing that brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and fresh green beans in one pot. The gentle slow cooking melds flavors beautifully while providing an effortless way to prepare a satisfying family dinner.
This dish offers a perfect combination of textures—from juicy chicken breasts to the crispy topping of stuffing infused with garlic and herbs. Ideal for busy days, it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor with little fuss.
- One-pot slow cooker meal simplifies cooking and cleanup.
- Deliciously tender chicken infused with garlic and Italian seasoning.
- Classic stuffing adds a crispy, flavorful topping to this cozy dish.
- Includes green beans for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (2 pounds): Skinless, boneless chicken breasts provide lean protein that becomes tender when slow-cooked.
- Minced garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and enhances savory flavor throughout the dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that complements the chicken and stuffing with a subtle herbal note.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and rich flavor, preventing dryness during slow cooking.
- Green beans (2 cups): Fresh or frozen green beans contribute a nutritious vegetable element and maintain some crispness.
- Cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.5 ounces each): Provides creamy texture and savory richness, binding ingredients together.
- Stovetop stuffing mix (1 box, 6 ounces): Classic stuffing mix forms a crunchy, flavorful topping once baked in the slow cooker.
- Butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Melted butter drizzled on top enhances stuffing’s crispiness and adds richness.
Instructions
- Layer the Chicken and Seasonings
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and sprinkle with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Pour chicken broth over the chicken. This layering infuses the meat with flavor and ensures juiciness during slow cooking.
- Add Green Beans
Scatter fresh or frozen green beans evenly over the seasoned chicken. Their placement on top allows them to steam gently, preserving their texture and nutrients in the slow cooker environment.
- Spread Cream of Chicken Soup
Carefully spoon cream of chicken soup over the green beans and chicken layer without stirring. The soup creates a creamy sauce that holds moisture and binds the flavors while cooking.
- Top with Stuffing Mix and Butter
Evenly distribute the stovetop stuffing mix across the surface, then drizzle melted butter over it. This technique keeps the layers distinct and ensures the stuffing bakes into a golden, crispy topping.
- Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Slow cooking tenderizes the chicken thoroughly while allowing flavors to meld perfectly, producing a comforting and ready-to-eat meal.
- For a creamier dish, increase the amount of cream of chicken soup added.
- Use fresh green beans for better texture, but frozen works well too.
- Keep slow cooker covered to maintain moisture and cook evenly.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to retain moisture and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or warm bread to complement the savory flavors. A light dessert and a refreshing beverage make a balanced, satisfying meal.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to promote even cooking and easier shredding if desired.
- Drain excess liquid near the end of cooking if you prefer thicker stuffing topping.
- Customize seasoning by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Adjust cooking time slightly if thighs are bone-in.
- Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as provided uses traditional stovetop stuffing which contains gluten. Use a certified gluten-free stuffing mix to accommodate gluten-free diets.
- Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight before cooking the next day.
- What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Use homemade or canned cream of mushroom soup for a flavor twist or a dairy-free cream sauce as an alternative.
- How do I make the stuffing crispier?
Cook uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes or broil briefly after slow cooking to achieve a crispier stuffing top.
- Can I double this recipe?
Doubling the recipe may require a larger slow cooker and longer cooking time to ensure even heat distribution.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing
Equipment
- 1 slow cooker For cooking the chicken and stuffing layers
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups green beans fresh or frozen
- 2 cans 10.5 ounces each cream of chicken soup
- 1 box 6 ounces stovetop stuffing mix
- 6 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add green beans on top of the chicken and seasonings.
- Spread cream of chicken soup evenly over the mixture without stirring.
- Evenly distribute the stuffing mix over the soup layer.
- Drizzle melted butter across the stuffing layer to keep layers distinct.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until chicken is tender.
Notes
- For creamier texture, add extra cream of chicken soup.
- Pairs well with side salad or bread.
- Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
