Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole | Easy St Patrick’s Day
Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole is a delightful twist on the iconic Reuben sandwich. This warm, hearty dish is packed with tender, juicy chicken, tangy sauerkraut, and a creamy Thousand Island dressing, all topped with gooey Swiss cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort and cheer, especially as the flavors meld together slowly in the convenience of your slow cooker. It’s perfect for those busy St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any family gathering when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
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I first discovered this gorgeous dish while on the hunt for something unique to spice up our St. Patrick’s Day dinner. This recipe quickly became a favorite within my family, not just for its ease but for the mouthwatering flavors that pop from the very first bite. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of taste and texture that beats any restaurant Reuben hands down. I promise once you try this Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole, it will become a staple in your household — an easy and budget-friendly meal that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 5 minutes of prep and 5 hours of cooking, you can set it and forget it.
- Irresistible Flavor: The mix of savory chicken, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing is simply addictive!
- Eye-Catching Appeal: This casserole layers beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes and the tummy.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect as a cozy dinner, a delicious game day dish, or even for potlucks!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customizable for lower-fat versions or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Provides lean protein and a tender texture. Feel free to substitute with turkey breast if you’d like.
- 1/2 tsp. salt: Enhances all the flavors of the casserole. You can use sea salt for a different taste.
- 1/4 tsp. ground pepper: Adds a subtle heat without overwhelming the dish. Freshly ground pepper works best!
- 1 tsp. garlic powder: For that essential savory kick. You can use fresh garlic as an alternative but adjust the quantity to taste.
- 1/2 tsp. caraway seeds: Imparts the unique flavor reminiscent of classic Reuben sandwiches. Fennel seeds can be substituted for a similar but lighter taste.
- 32 oz. can sauerkraut, drained very well: The heart of this casserole, giving it tanginess and crunch. If you prefer, you can use bagged fresh sauerkraut for a fresher bite.
- 1 cup thousand island dressing: This creamy dressing melds everything beautifully. Use a refrigerated type for the best flavor.
- 8 oz. Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly, providing creaminess and a hint of nuttiness. Gruyère cheese can be a great alternative for a richer taste.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole | Easy St Patrick’s Day
Add Chicken: Begin by placing the cubed chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Sprinkle the 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. ground pepper, 1 tsp. garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp. caraway seeds evenly over the chicken. Give it a gentle stir with a spoon or mix it up with clean hands to ensure that the seasonings coat the meat well.
Layer Sauerkraut: After seasoning, take your 32 oz. can sauerkraut (drained very well) and layer it over the seasoned chicken. Make sure the sauerkraut is evenly spread to guarantee every bite is full of flavor.
Spread Dressing: Next, generously dollop 1 cup thousand island dressing over the sauerkraut. Spread it out to create a luscious top layer that will meld everything together as it cooks. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Top with Cheese: Now, it’s time to add the final touch. Lay 8 oz. of Swiss cheese slices evenly on top of the dressing, making sure to cover the entire casserole. The cheese will transform into a creamy, bubbling topping once cooked.
Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook the casserole for 5 hours. The dish is ready when the chicken is cooked through and everything is bubbling. Keep an eye on it towards the end, the aroma will be heavenly!
Storing & Reheating
You can store any leftovers at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours. For longer storage, transfer the casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you have more leftovers, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Do note that textures may change slightly after freezing, but a splash of dressing can help refresh it upon reheating.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- To avoid dry chicken, ensure you don’t overcook the casserole—check for doneness at the 4.5-hour mark.
- If you’re using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, remember that about 1 clove equals 1/8 tsp of powder.
- Layering the ingredients well helps flavors meld together. Take care to not overmix while stirring in the first step.
- For an extra crispy topping, you can finish off the casserole under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Just keep an eye on it!
- Adding some chopped fresh parsley as a garnish before serving gives a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser packed with flavors that dance on your palate. As you gather around the table with friends and family, this casserole serves as a perfect centerpiece for memorable moments. Try mixing in some of your favorite veggies or spices, and feel free to make it your own. There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Enjoy it with a smile and good company.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen, plan to cook the casserole on low for about 6-7 hours to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make your Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole gluten-free, simply ensure that the Thousand Island dressing and the sauerkraut you choose are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the same fantastic flavors without worrying about gluten.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them separately. In the morning, just layer everything in the slow cooker and set the timer. It’s a great way to save time for busy days!
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables would make for a balanced meal. You could even serve it with some crusty bread for a lovely touch!
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📖 Recipe Card
Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole | Easy St Patrick’s Day
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 305 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: 101|Main Dishes
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Crockpot Chicken Reuben Casserole is a flavorful and simple dish featuring tender chicken, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, perfect for easy family dinners or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. caraway seeds
- 32 oz. can sauerkraut, drained very well
- 1 cup thousand island dressing
- 8 oz. swiss cheese
Instructions
- Place the cubed chicken into the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and caraway seeds. Mix well.
- Layer the drained sauerkraut over the seasoned chicken evenly.
- Spread the thousand island dressing across the sauerkraut layer.
- Distribute the Swiss cheese slices evenly on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Notes
For a crunchier texture, consider broiling the top for a few minutes after cooking.
Feel free to substitute the Swiss cheese with your favorite cheese if preferred.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
