If you’re searching for a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy soup, crisp green beans, and that nostalgic stuffing flavor all in one pot, you’re going to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and soul-satisfying flavors, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. This recipe delivers tender chicken infused with herbs, fluffy stuffing soaked in savory broth and soup, and just the right hint of buttered goodness. Once you try this slow cooker magic, it’ll become your go-to comfort food that’s effortless and delicious every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the right ingredients is the first secret to making this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe a triumph. Each item is simple but essential, contributing to the perfect balance of textures and flavors — from the herbed chicken breasts to the creamy soup base and buttery, golden stuffing topping.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts: Use boneless for easy shredding, and fresh is best for juicy results.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides a fragrant, savory kick that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Moisturizes the chicken and infuses the stuffing with extra savory goodness.
- 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen: Adds vibrant color and a refreshing, crisp bite.
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: Creates a rich, creamy texture that coats every ingredient perfectly.
- 1 box (6 ounces) stovetop stuffing mix: The star crunch and flavor provider that completes the dish.
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top to ensure a golden, buttery crust on the stuffing layer.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Layer in the Chicken and Seasonings
Start by placing your chicken breasts right at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top. Pour in the chicken broth, which will keep the chicken tender and the stuffing moist as everything cooks together.
Step 2: Add the Green Beans
Next, tuck in your fresh or frozen green beans around and on top of the chicken. These bright beauties add texture and a lovely pop of color that livens up the entire dish.
Step 3: Spoon on the Cream of Chicken Soup
Gently spoon the cream of chicken soup over the green beans and chicken. Try to spread it evenly but resist the urge to stir — keeping those layers intact is key for the perfect outcome.
Step 4: Finish with Stuffing and Butter
Now, sprinkle the entire box of stuffing mix evenly over the soup layer. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing. This butter is the secret to that beautiful golden crust and adds rich flavor.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow or Fast and Hot
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the stuffing perfectly cooked and crispy on top. Resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking — trust the process!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top bring a refreshing brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy layers. A little cracked black pepper also adds a nice touch of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed carrots to add more color and crunch to your plate. For a heartier meal, roasted sweet potatoes complement the savory flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve this Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe straight from the slow cooker, letting everyone help themselves. If you want to impress guests, plate individual servings topped with a fresh sprig of rosemary or thyme for that restaurant-quality touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick reheats without compromising flavor or texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or zip bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating helps keep everything moist and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay moist during cooking. Adjust the cooking time if your thighs are bone-in or thicker than the breasts.
Is it possible to make this recipe without the stuffing mix?
You could substitute with homemade stuffing or seasoned breadcrumbs, but the boxed stuffing mix brings a unique flavor and texture that’s hard to replicate so easily.
Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?
Definitely! Carrots, mushrooms, or even diced celery can be great additions that complement the flavors and add more dimension to the dish.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can make a simple homemade béchamel with chicken broth, butter, and flour for a similar creamy effect, or try cream of mushroom soup for a different twist.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup. There are plenty of good brands available that will keep this recipe just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe is truly a winning combination of convenience and homey comfort. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that remind you of family dinners and cozy nights. Once you make it, trust me, it’ll become a beloved staple you reach for again and again!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stuffing recipe featuring tender chicken breasts, green beans, and savory stuffing layered with cream of chicken soup and melted butter. Perfect for a hearty family meal with minimal prep and slow cooker convenience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
Vegetables
- 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen
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 Slow Cooker Base: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth on top to season and provide moisture for cooking.
- Add Green Beans: Incorporate the fresh or frozen green beans into the slow cooker, layering them over the chicken and seasoning mixture.
- Layer Cream of Chicken Soup: Evenly spread the two cans of cream of chicken soup over the green beans and chicken, but do not stir, to maintain the texture layers during cooking.
- Add Stuffing and Butter: Distribute the stovetop stuffing mix evenly over the soup layer. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing to keep layers distinct and add richness.
- Cook the Dish: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen green beans based on availability.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For a lower fat option, use light cream of chicken soup and reduce butter to 3 tablespoons.
- Do not stir the layers to maintain the texture and flavor distinctions.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for variation.
