If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, this Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender shredded rotisserie chicken mingling with savory herbs, creamy soups, and the rustic charm of cornbread and old bread baked to perfection—all slow-cooked to meld flavors into pure bliss. It’s the perfect dish to gather around with family or friends, especially when you want something fuss-free yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly staples that come together to create the soul of this dish. Each plays a crucial role: from the tender chicken providing protein and flavor, to the cornbread giving that signature crumbly texture, and the herbs adding aromatic warmth that makes every bite memorable.
- Rotisserie chicken: Using a whole rotisserie chicken shredded is your shortcut to rich, juicy meat without extra cooking time.
- Cornbread: Crumbled cornbread adds a sweet and crumbly base that balances the savory notes.
- Day-old bread: Torn into large pieces, it soaks up moisture while keeping the texture balanced.
- Onion: Provides a natural sweetness and depth when cooked slowly.
- Celery: Adds a crisp, fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
- Dried sage: A must-have herb that brings that classic “dressing” aroma.
- Dried thyme: Complements sage and adds complexity to the flavor profile.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to enhance all other flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of heat and balance.
- Large eggs: Bind the mixture and help create that perfect fluffy texture.
- Chicken broth: Moistens the dressing and enriches the taste.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds comforting creaminess without overpowering the herbs.
- Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup: Gives an earthy undertone and smooth texture.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients
Start by combining the crumbled cornbread, torn bread pieces, chopped onion, celery, dried sage, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This mix lays down the foundation of flavor and texture, marrying the sweetness of cornbread and the aromatic herbs essential for that homestyle dressing feel.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Creamy Soups
Whisk the large eggs lightly, then add to the bread and herb mixture along with the unsalted cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir well until everything is evenly coated—this creamy blend ensures your dressing will be moist, fluffy, and so satisfying.
Step 3: Stir in Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
Now fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The chicken adds that lovely protein boost and its savory flavor compliments the herbs and creamy base perfectly.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker and Cook
Transfer the entire mixture into your slow cooker. Cover and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. This slow, gentle cooking method allows the dressing to absorb all the wonderful flavors, while keeping everything tender and moist—perfect for an effortless meal prep.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a touch of crispy fried onions on top adds a burst of color and an extra layer of texture. If you love a little zest, a dash of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving can elevate the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic green beans, roasted root vegetables, or even a crisp garden salad to balance its richness. For an extra comforting touch, serve with warm dinner rolls or mashed potatoes to turn it into a festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It also makes a fantastic stuffing inside roasted acorn squash or bell peppers, bringing a creative flair while keeping all the familiar flavors intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week without losing any of its delicious flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or in an oven-safe dish at 325°F until warmed through. To keep it moist, cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid. Stir halfway through heating to ensure even warmth and maintain that luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
While you can use fresh bread, day-old or slightly stale bread is ideal because it absorbs the liquids without turning mushy, giving your dressing the perfect texture.
Is it necessary to use both cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup?
The combination of both soups creates a rich and complex flavor profile. You can substitute or omit one, but using both helps achieve the classic creamy consistency and depth.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. You can bake the mixture in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 45-60 minutes, covered for the first 40 minutes and uncovered towards the end to brown the top.
What if I want to make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free cornbread and bread alternatives to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
Can leftovers be used in other recipes?
Yes! Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe makes an amazing filling for casseroles, sandwiches, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe is one of those dishes that simply makes your home feel cozy and your heart full. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something hearty and delicious. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s become such a beloved classic in my kitchen.
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Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken & Dressing recipe is a comforting Southern classic combining shredded rotisserie chicken with cornbread, hearty bread, aromatic herbs, and creamy soups. Slow cooked to perfection, it serves as a perfect side or main dish for family meals and holiday gatherings with tender, flavorful dressing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (meat shredded, skin and bones discarded)
- 10 cups crumbled cornbread
- 8 slices day old bread, torn into large pieces
- 1½ cups onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 tsp dried sage
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 large eggs
- 2 (14.5-oz) cans chicken broth
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
Instructions
- Prepare the base mixture: In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, day old bread pieces, chopped onion, chopped celery, dried sage, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, eggs, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add the shredded chicken: Stir in the shredded meat from the rotisserie chicken, discarding the skin and bones before mixing to evenly distribute the chicken throughout the dressing mixture.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Pour the entire mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly to promote uniform cooking.
- Cook the dressing: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat setting for 4 to 5 hours, or alternatively on HIGH for about 3 hours, until the dressing is cooked through and set. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to achieve a moist, tender texture.
Notes
- Using day-old bread and cornbread helps the dressing hold its structure without becoming too mushy.
- Adjust the salt according to the sodium content of the broths and soups used.
- You can add additional herbs like parsley or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream soups with dairy-free alternatives and verify broth choice.
- Ensure the slow cooker lid fits tightly to prevent moisture loss during cooking.
