Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 8 oz each)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup low sodium chicken stock (for the base)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 Tbsp melted for chicken, 2 Tbsp melted for stuffing)
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (6 oz) box sage and onion stuffing mix
- 1 cup hot chicken stock (for the stuffing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with kitchen paper. Season generously on all sides with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of garlic powder.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a small pan, lightly sauté the diced onion in 1 teaspoon of butter until softened (about 3 minutes). This is an optional step but highly recommended for flavor.
- Mix the Base Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of chicken stock, dried thyme, and the sautéed onions. Whisk until smooth.
- Layer the Crockpot: Pour the entire base sauce mixture into the bottom of a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker insert, spreading it evenly.
- Place the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts directly on top of the sauce layer. Brush the tops of the chicken with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Combine Stuffing Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the dried stuffing mix, the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter, the finely chopped fresh sage, and the 1 cup of hot chicken stock.
- Mix Lightly: Toss gently until the liquid is just absorbed. Do not overmix or pack the stuffing; it should remain light and crumbly.
- Add to Pot: Gently spoon the prepared stuffing mixture directly over the chicken breasts and surrounding sauce.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker tightly. Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours.
- Check Doneness: The dish is ready when the chicken is fork-tender and the internal temperature of the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Switch the slow cooker off and allow the dish to rest, covered, for 10 minutes before serving. Serve immediately with the surrounding creamy sauce.