Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing
Introduction and Origin
Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing is a comforting, home-style dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful, moist stuffing. This meal is inspired by traditional American Thanksgiving and Sunday dinners, where stuffing is a beloved side dish. By adapting it for the slow cooker, this recipe simplifies the cooking process, making it ideal for busy weeknights while still delivering the cozy flavors of a homemade feast.
Cultural Significance
Stuffing has deep roots in American cuisine, especially during the holiday season. It is commonly associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, often cooked inside a turkey. However, variations of stuffing recipes exist worldwide, each reflecting regional flavors and ingredients. This slow cooker version provides the same heartwarming experience but with the ease of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, making it a popular choice for family meals.
Ingredients Quantity
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup of sour cream
• ½ cup of chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon of onion powder
• ½ teaspoon of dried thyme (optional)
• 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• ½ teaspoon of salt (adjust based on broth’s salt content)
Optional Additions
• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the stuffing for added creaminess.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms enhance the depth of flavor.
• Celery and Onion: These provide extra crunch and an authentic stuffing texture.
• Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a sweet-tart contrast.
Tips for Success
1. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you prefer more tender and flavorful meat, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
2. Don’t Overcook: Cooking on low for 5–6 hours prevents the chicken from drying out.
3. Layer Ingredients Properly: Place the chicken at the bottom to ensure even cooking, then top with stuffing and liquid ingredients.
4. Add Broth Gradually: If you like a firmer stuffing, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray.
2. Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the Stuffing: Sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly over the chicken.
6. Pour the Mixture: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the stuffing, ensuring all the stuffing is moistened.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
8. Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Serve: Fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve warm.
Description
This dish offers a combination of tender, juicy chicken paired with a rich, savory stuffing that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the broth and seasonings. The creamy sauce binds everything together, creating a comforting meal reminiscent of a holiday dinner.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, based on 4 servings)
• Calories: 380-420 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg (varies based on broth and stuffing brand)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the comfort of a homemade meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for meal prepping, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish even healthier, consider using low-sodium broth, reduced-fat sour cream, and a homemade stuffing mix with whole-grain bread. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or kale, for extra nutrients. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, indulgent meal while keeping it nourishing and balanced.
Would you like any modifications to suit your preferences?