Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing with Green Beans is the perfect choice for busy families craving a hearty, home-cooked meal without the hassle. This dish blends the flavors of juicy chicken, seasoned stuffing, and tender green beans into a one-pot wonder.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (6-ounce) box Stovetop stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen green beans
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts with seasoned salt and black pepper, then place them at the bottom of a lightly greased 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the dry stuffing mix evenly over the chicken.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, and water until well combined.
- Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the stuffing mix in the slow cooker.
- Add the frozen green beans on top, seasoning them with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Serve warm, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Nutrients Per Serving
- Calories: 413
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 83mg
- Sodium: 1073mg
- Potassium: 571mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 972IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 86mg
- Iron: 2mg
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is simple yet flavorful, using everyday ingredients that many already have on hand. It requires just a few minutes of preparation before the slow cooker takes over, making it an ideal choice for those with a busy schedule. Another advantage is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit different dietary needs, such as swapping out the stuffing mix for a homemade version, using fresh green beans instead of frozen, or adding additional herbs and spices for a richer flavor. It can be customized based on personal preferences, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Substituting the stuffing mix with a homemade version, using fresh vegetables instead of frozen, or adding different herbs and spices can elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
The History of Stuffing in Cooking
Stuffing has been a staple in culinary traditions for centuries, originating from ancient civilizations like the Romans and Egyptians. In American cuisine, stuffing is most commonly associated with Thanksgiving, traditionally baked inside a turkey. However, it pairs well with various meats, including chicken, pork, and beef. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional stuffing dishes and transforms them into a slow-cooked, all-in-one meal. The stuffing absorbs the chicken’s juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish without requiring separate cooking steps. In American cuisine, stuffing is most commonly associated with Thanksgiving, where it is traditionally cooked inside a roasted turkey. However, stuffing pairs well with a variety of meats, including chicken and pork.
The Role of Green Beans in This Dish
Green beans provide a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the soft stuffing and tender chicken. Their vibrant color enhances the dish’s visual appeal, while their nutritional value contributes essential vitamins and fiber. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. While frozen green beans offer convenience, fresh green beans can be used for a crisper texture if added halfway through the cooking process. These nutrients support immune function, improve digestion, and contribute to overall health. While frozen green beans offer convenience and can be added directly to the slow cooker, fresh green beans can also be used for a more vibrant taste and texture. Adding them midway through the cooking process ensures they retain some of their crispness, preventing them from becoming overly soft.
How to Customize This Recipe
While the original recipe is delicious as-is, there are numerous ways to customize it to fit personal preferences. Switching the protein to turkey or pork chops can bring a new flavor profile, while using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds extra juiciness. A homemade stuffing mix allows for complete control over the seasoning and ingredients. Additional vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. Cheese lovers can sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan on top before serving for a creamy, indulgent finish. Herbs like fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can elevate the overall taste, while spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika add depth.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing with Green Beans is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with complementary side dishes. Mashed potatoes add a creamy texture that blends well with the stuffing, while cranberry sauce provides a sweet and tangy contrast. Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the sauce, and a simple garden salad with vinaigrette dressing can balance the dish’s richness. Cranberry sauce provides a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the stuffing and cream sauce. Warm dinner rolls are an excellent addition for soaking up the flavorful sauce. A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the dish’s heavier elements, making for a well-balanced dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This dish is excellent for meal prepping since it stores well and reheats easily. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While the chicken and stuffing freeze well, the green beans may lose their texture when thawed, so adding fresh green beans upon reheating is recommended. To reheat, use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or warm in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
Despite its rich, comforting taste, this dish offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. The stuffing and green beans contribute fiber, which aids digestion. Additionally, sour cream and cream of chicken soup provide calcium, while green beans supply essential vitamins that promote overall health.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing with Green Beans is the ultimate comfort meal that brings together traditional flavors with effortless preparation. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and nutritious green beans makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even special occasions. Whether you’re craving a hearty homemade dish or looking for an easy slow cooker meal, this recipe is a reliable go-to option for delicious, stress-free dining.