Easy Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing Recipe
If you’ve been searching for the perfect comfort food that’s both effortless and absolutely delicious, this Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing recipe is your new best friend. It’s a cozy, one-pot wonder that combines tender, juicy chicken with rich, homemade gravy and fluffy stuffing, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off Cooking: Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it work its magic while you relax or focus on other things.
- Comfort Food Classic: This trio of chicken, gravy, and stuffing feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy evenings.
- Economical Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and simple fresh items, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.
- Family Friendly: Mild, savory flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy, perfect for any gathering.
- Customizable: Easily adjusted to fit dietary preferences or available ingredients without losing its hearty charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing recipe relies on straightforward, familiar ingredients each chosen to create a hearty yet elegant dish. Every element plays a key role, from the succulent chicken to the flavorful gravy and the perfectly textured stuffing.
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Choose bone-in thighs for extra moisture, or breasts for a leaner option.
- Stuffing Mix: Pre-packaged herb stuffing mix saves time and ensures consistent flavor and texture.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the gravy and keeps everything juicy and tender.
- Onion and Celery: These aromatics build a solid savory foundation with every bite.
- Butter: Essential for richness and helps create the luscious gravy.
- Flour: Used to thicken the gravy to just the right consistency.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Simple spices to elevate all the flavors harmoniously.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh taste when garnished on top.
Variations for Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing
One of the best parts of this Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to add veggies, cater to dietary needs, or experiment with new flavors, these variations will help you mix things up without extra stress.
- Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, peas, or mushrooms for additional nutrition and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and flour substitutes to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Herb Variations: Try thyme, rosemary, or sage in place of or alongside parsley to change the flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative to accommodate dairy-free needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a gentle heat twist.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by lightly browning the chicken thighs or breasts in a hot skillet with butter or oil to seal in flavor and enhance texture, then place them at the bottom of the crock pot. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Broth
Layer diced onion and celery over the chicken, then pour chicken broth evenly to create a flavorful liquid base that will keep everything moist and tender during cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix with butter, seasonings including salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and a little broth from the crock pot to moisten it, then add this mixture on top of the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the stuffing to soak up all the rich flavors and savory juices from beneath.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
About 30 minutes before serving, remove a cup of cooking liquid and whisk in flour until smooth, then stir this back into the crock pot to thicken the gravy beautifully as it finishes cooking.
Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing
- Brown the Chicken: Searing chicken before slow cooking adds a tremendous depth of flavor and better texture.
- Check Liquid Levels: Ensure there’s enough broth so the stuffing doesn’t dry out but not so much that it becomes mushy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled right before serving brightens the dish instantly.
- Don’t Overcook Stuffing: Add the stuffing mix partway through cooking if you prefer a less soggy texture.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid lifting the crock pot lid unnecessarily to maintain consistent cooking temperature.
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the savory dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad to bring freshness and balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in rustic bowls with extra gravy on the side, or plate it alongside roasted vegetables for a comforting presentation that’s as inviting as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring flavors stay fresh and ready to reheat.
Freezing
This dish freezes well when packed in freezer-safe containers, lasting up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy and stuffing.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well but may require less cooking time and can be a leaner option.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
No, but browning enhances flavor and texture, so it’s worth the extra step if you have time.
What if I want to make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free stuffing mixes and substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the gravy.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding carrots, peas, mushrooms, or other veggies gives extra nutrition and flavor, just adjust cooking times if needed.
How thick should the gravy be?
The gravy should be rich and coat the back of a spoon without being runny or overly thick; adjust flour or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing recipe is a true game-changer for busy families or anyone craving a comforting, tasty meal with little effort. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite — hearty, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Give this slow-cooker classic a shot and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings to your dinner table!
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Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (with adaptations)
Description
This easy and comforting Crock Pot Chicken, Gravy, and Stuffing recipe combines tender chicken with rich homemade gravy and fluffy stuffing, slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights, it uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients to deliver warm, savory flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 to 6 bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
Stuffing
- 1 package herb stuffing mix (6 oz)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Liquid and Gravy Thickener
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for GF option)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Lightly brown the chicken thighs or breasts in a hot skillet with butter or oil to seal in flavor and enhance texture (optional but recommended). Place the browned chicken at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add Aromatics and Broth: Layer the diced onion and celery evenly over the chicken. Pour chicken broth over everything to create a flavorful liquid base that keeps the dish moist during cooking.
- Mix the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix with butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a small amount of chicken broth taken from the crock pot to moisten. Spread this stuffing mixture evenly on top of the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the stuffing to absorb the savory flavors.
- Thicken the Gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, remove one cup of the cooking liquid. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then stir this mixture back into the crock pot. Continue cooking to thicken the gravy.
Notes
- Brown the chicken beforehand to enhance flavor and texture.
- Ensure enough broth is used to keep stuffing moist but not soggy.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme brighten the dish when added before serving.
- If preferred, add stuffing mix partway through cooking to reduce sogginess.
- Avoid lifting the crock pot lid unnecessarily to maintain even cooking temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: crock pot chicken, slow cooker chicken, chicken and stuffing, comfort food, easy dinner, slow cooked gravy