Are you looking for a hearty and comforting meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this incredible Slow Cooker Chicken & Stuffing recipe! Packed with tender chicken, savory stuffing, and wholesome vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—all you need is your trusty slow cooker and a few simple ingredients. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 6 ounces chicken stuffing mix
- 1 can green beans, 14 oz drained
- 1 can cream of chicken soup, 10.5 oz
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and chicken stuffing mix.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Sauce
- Layer the drained green beans on top of the stuffing mixture in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, and any additional seasoning if desired.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the green beans and stuffing in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, serve the Slow Cooker Chicken & Stuffing hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the dish.
- Use Homemade Stuffing: If you prefer, you can make your own stuffing from scratch using your favorite recipe instead of using store-bought stuffing mix.
- Make it Creamier: For an even creamier texture, add extra sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this Slow Cooker Chicken & Stuffing recipe:
- Replace the Stuffing: Instead of using traditional stuffing mix, substitute with a low-carb or keto-friendly alternative, such as cauliflower rice or almond flour-based stuffing.
- Skip the Cream of Chicken Soup: Omit the cream of chicken soup from the recipe and use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth thickened with xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener instead.
- Adjust the Vegetables: Choose low-carb vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach instead of green beans to reduce the carb content of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and assemble the dish in the slow cooker insert ahead of time, then refrigerate it overnight. Simply place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed when ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for this recipe. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, making them a great alternative.
In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Chicken & Stuffing recipe is the epitome of comfort food—warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your dietary preferences, whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or traditional diet. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a taste of home-cooked goodness!
