Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Dive into a comforting and nutritious meal with this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe. Perfect for busy days, this dish combines tender chicken with flavorful stuffing for a satisfying dinner.
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is a family favorite! It's easy to prepare and cook, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the stuffing absorbs all the delicious juices.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simple preparation with minimal clean-up
- Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Savory stuffing infused with herbs and spices
- A wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing is not just a dish; it's a comforting experience. The combination of tender chicken and savory stuffing makes it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or hosting friends for a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
With minimal hands-on time, you can set this dish to cook in the morning and come home to a deliciously aromatic meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a hearty dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables with the addition of celery and onion.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe prioritizes health without sacrificing flavor. By using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium chicken broth, you can enjoy a meal that's lower in fat and sodium. The addition of celery and onion not only enhances the flavor but also adds fiber and essential nutrients, making this dish a wholesome option for families seeking healthy meals.
Additionally, the use of herbs like thyme and garlic powder not only elevates the taste but also provides numerous health benefits. Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties, while garlic can help boost the immune system. This dish is an excellent example of how healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout features of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe is its meal prep friendliness. You can easily double or triple the recipe to have leftovers for the week. Simply portion out the cooked chicken and stuffing into meal prep containers for quick and easy lunches or dinners. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storing leftovers is a breeze, too. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove. This way, you can save time and ensure you're eating healthy, homemade meals even on your busiest days.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (12 oz) stuffing mix
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Add Vegetables
Add the diced celery and onion on top of the chicken.
Prepare Stuffing Mixture
In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is moistened, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken stays moist and flavorful, avoid opening the crockpot lid during cooking. Every time you lift the lid, you release heat, which can prolong the cooking time. Trust the process—your patience will be rewarded with perfectly tender chicken.
If you prefer a bit more texture in your stuffing, consider adding some chopped herbs or even nuts for added crunch. A sprinkle of parsley or walnuts can enhance both the flavor and the nutritional profile of the dish.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! You can swap out the stuffing mix for a different flavor, such as cornbread or whole grain stuffing. Additionally, adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can give your dish an extra nutritional boost.
For a touch of creaminess, consider mixing in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving. This addition can create a delightful contrast with the savory stuffing and chicken, making it even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. This combination not only adds variety to your plate but also increases your vegetable intake, further enhancing the healthiness of the meal.
For a comforting twist, consider pairing the dish with homemade cranberry sauce or even a light gravy. These additions can elevate the flavors and make your dining experience even more special, perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free stuffing mix and broth.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing
Dive into a comforting and nutritious meal with this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing recipe. Perfect for busy days, this dish combines tender chicken with flavorful stuffing for a satisfying dinner.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (12 oz) stuffing mix
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Add the diced celery and onion on top of the chicken.
In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is moistened, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g