Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy
This recipe delivers all the cozy flavors of Thanksgiving dinner, but with the convenience of your slow cooker! Perfect for a weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend gathering, this slow cooker chicken and stuffing is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Forget the oven fuss – let your slow cooker work its magic!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add-ins to match your preferences.
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For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Slow Cooker Perfection
Get started: Prepare your ingredients. Chop the vegetables, measure out the spices, and cube your bread.
Sauté the veggies (optional but recommended): For deeper flavor, sauté the onion, celery, and mushrooms in olive oil until softened. This step is not mandatory but highly encouraged.
Season the chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This ensures the chicken is flavorful and juicy.
Assemble in the slow cooker: Place the chicken in your slow cooker. If using a whole chicken, ensure it fits comfortably.
Prepare the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables (if using), cubed bread, chicken broth, parsley, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently toss until the bread is evenly moistened.
Layer the stuffing: Place the stuffing around the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the stuffing is not packed tightly – it needs space to cook and absorb the juices.
Slow cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken with the flavorful stuffing.
Tips and Variations for an Elevated Slow Cooker Experience
- Add some crunch: For added texture, sprinkle some crispy fried onions over the stuffing before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Incorporate some shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese into the stuffing for a richer flavor.
- Leftovers are a plus: This dish is even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, slow cooker stuffing, chicken and stuffing recipe, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, Thanksgiving recipe, weeknight dinner, slow cooker recipes, one-pot meal
This recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic dish. The detailed instructions and helpful tips ensure a successful and flavorful outcome every time. Enjoy!
