Stuffing, or dressing as it's known in some parts of the US, is a quintessential holiday side dish. But preparing it traditionally can be time-consuming. This recipe leverages the magic of the slow cooker to create a delicious and effortless chicken stuffing, perfect for your Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion. This method allows for hands-off cooking, leaving you more time to focus on other preparations.
What Makes this Crock Pot Chicken Stuffing Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't your average stuffing. We're enhancing the classic flavors with succulent roasted chicken, creating a richer and more savory experience. The slow cooker ensures even cooking, resulting in tender, perfectly seasoned stuffing every time. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (or leftover roasted chicken)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, another 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Gently mix in the cubed bread, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Slow Cooker Magic: Pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently to combine. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the bread is completely softened and the stuffing is heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section addresses common questions people have about making crock pot chicken stuffing.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While day-old bread is ideal for its ability to absorb liquid without becoming mushy, you can use other types of bread like sourdough, Italian bread, or even cornbread for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that softer breads might require less cooking time.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Easily! Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. You can add other vegetables like roasted butternut squash, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Consider adding some crumbled vegetarian sausage for a heartier vegetarian option.
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
You can assemble the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time. You can also cook it completely ahead of time and reheat it gently in the slow cooker on low or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add cranberries and pecans for a festive twist, or incorporate sauteed apples and sausage for a savory-sweet combination. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor profile.
Can I use a different size slow cooker?
Yes, you can adjust the recipe based on your slow cooker's size. For smaller slow cookers, you might need to reduce the amount of bread and broth proportionally. For larger slow cookers, you might need to increase the ingredients accordingly.
This crock pot chicken stuffing recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, delicious flavors, and customizable nature make it a perfect addition to your holiday table or any weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
