The aroma of warm, savory chicken and dressing wafting from your kitchen—pure comfort food bliss! This recipe elevates the classic dish to new heights using the slow cooker for effortless preparation and maximum flavor. Forget the hours spent fussing over the oven; this crockpot chicken and dressing recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken and perfectly moist dressing every time. Get ready to experience this beloved dish in a whole new light.
What is Crockpot Chicken and Dressing?
Crockpot chicken and dressing is a simplified, hands-off version of the traditional Thanksgiving or holiday favorite. Instead of roasting a chicken and preparing the dressing separately in the oven, this recipe combines both in a slow cooker. The chicken simmers in flavorful broth, infusing its juices into the dressing, resulting in a deeply flavorful and exceptionally moist final product. This method is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to minimize oven time, freeing you up to focus on other elements of your meal.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Dressing
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a casual weeknight meal or a more formal gathering. You can adjust the seasoning to your personal preferences.
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces OR 2-3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth (reserved from cooking chicken)
- 1/2 cup bread cubes (day-old bread is ideal)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Layer in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a separate skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and carrots in butter until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, parsley, sage, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the dressing is tender. Internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Shred the chicken and serve it over the dressing. You can garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Crockpot Chicken and Dressing?
The cooking time depends on your slow cooker and the size of your chicken. As a general guideline, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours is recommended. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's fully cooked.
Can I Make Crockpot Chicken and Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the chicken and dressing components the day before, store them separately in the refrigerator, and combine them in the slow cooker in the morning. This will save you time on busy days.
What Kind of Bread is Best for Crockpot Chicken and Dressing?
Day-old bread works best for this recipe. The slightly dried-out texture helps to absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. However, you can also use fresh bread, but be mindful that it might absorb more liquid, resulting in a slightly wetter dressing.
Variations and Tips for Crockpot Chicken and Dressing
- Add wild rice: Incorporate cooked wild rice into the dressing for added texture and flavor.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or marjoram.
- Add cranberries: Dried cranberries add a sweet and tart note that complements the savory flavors.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts: For a more flavorful result.
This crockpot chicken and dressing recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this comfort food classic. Enjoy the ease and the incredible flavor!
