This recipe combines the comforting flavors of classic stove top stuffing with tender, juicy crock pot chicken for a truly satisfying meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. Forget the stress of oven-bound cooking – this recipe simplifies the process while maximizing flavor.
What is Crock Pot Chicken & Stove Top Stuffing?
This dish ingeniously pairs the convenience of slow-cooked chicken with the familiar taste of stove top stuffing. The chicken, cooked low and slow in a crock pot, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, while the stuffing, prepared separately on the stove top, offers a delightful textural contrast. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that's easy to customize to your liking.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken & Stove Top Stuffing
This recipe is surprisingly easy. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Part 1: The Crock Pot Chicken
- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other herbs you enjoy (paprika, thyme, or rosemary work well).
- Crock pot cooking: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your crock pot. Add about 1 cup of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Shred the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. You can reserve some of the cooking liquid for extra moisture in the stuffing, if needed.
Part 2: The Stove Top Stuffing
- Prepare the stuffing mix: Follow the instructions on your favorite stove top stuffing mix package. You can use any brand, but be sure to adjust the liquid according to your preference. Some people prefer a drier stuffing, while others like it more moist.
- Add flavor: Enhance the flavor of your stuffing by adding sautéed onions, celery, and/or mushrooms before adding the broth or water. You can also incorporate herbs like sage, thyme, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Combine chicken and stuffing (optional): Once the stuffing is cooked, you can gently fold in the shredded crock pot chicken. This creates a more cohesive dish, but you can also serve them separately.
Part 3: Serving
Serve the crock pot chicken and stove top stuffing together. You can garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added visual appeal. Consider serving it with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
How Long Does Crock Pot Chicken Take to Cook?
The cooking time for crock pot chicken varies depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the setting of your crock pot. As a general rule, plan for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in a Crock Pot?
While it's generally recommended to use thawed chicken in a crock pot, you can use frozen chicken. However, you'll need to significantly increase the cooking time. Expect to add at least an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time on low, or 1-2 hours on high. It's crucial to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to a safe internal temperature.
What Are Some Variations of This Recipe?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some variations to explore:
- Spicy Chicken & Stuffing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the chicken while it cooks for a spicy kick.
- Wild Rice Stuffing: Use a wild rice blend instead of traditional stuffing mix for a more nuanced flavor profile.
- Creamy Stuffing: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream to the cooked stuffing for a richer, creamier texture.
This Crock Pot Chicken & Stove Top Stuffing recipe is a winner for its ease, flavor, and versatility. Enjoy!
