There’s something about a warm, comforting casserole that just hits the spot. And this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole? It’s like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Imagine tender, juicy chicken baked to perfection with a rich, flavorful stuffing that’s packed with buttery goodness. The aroma alone will have everyone in your house gathering around the kitchen, impatiently waiting for the first bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping something easy for a potluck, this dish is about to become your go-to favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or holiday dinners, this casserole works for any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and a hands-off baking process make this an effortless meal.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste—add veggies, use different proteins, or spice it up!
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
Stuffing Mix: The secret ingredient that gives this casserole its incredible texture and savory depth.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a rich, velvety consistency to the dish, making it extra creamy and delicious.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the flavors and ensures the stuffing stays moist and flavorful.
Butter: A little butter goes a long way in making the stuffing golden, crispy, and absolutely irresistible.
Seasonings: A simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder brings out all the best flavors.
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the stuffing mix with chicken broth and melted butter until evenly combined. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on.
Assemble the Dish
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Spread the cream of chicken soup evenly over the top. Then, layer the prepared stuffing mix on top of the chicken.
Cook to Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown on top. Be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure doneness.
Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors settle. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but a brief cooling period makes a big difference.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 400
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli.
- Mashed potatoes for an extra dose of comfort.
- Cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast.
- A side of warm dinner rolls to scoop up every last bite.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works great.
- Try different soups: Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or cheddar soup for a twist.
- Make it cheesy: Add shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of gooey deliciousness.
- Add veggies: Mix in peas, corn, or diced carrots for a more balanced meal.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze Chicken & Stuffing Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Peas, carrots, green beans, or even mushrooms make great additions.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
What stuffing mix should I use?
Any boxed stuffing mix works, but herb-seasoned stuffing gives the best flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use homemade stuffing instead?
Of course! Just prepare your favorite stuffing recipe and use it in place of the mix.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cream soup and skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish is a winner every time. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and endless customization options, there’s no reason not to try it. So go ahead, make this casserole, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
Print
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
Description
This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a buttery stuffing topping. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that brings classic flavors together in one delicious casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Prepare Stuffing Mix:
- In a bowl, mix stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb liquid.
-
Make the Creamy Chicken Layer:
- In a separate bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Stir in shredded chicken and frozen vegetables (if using).
-
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Top with the prepared stuffing mix.
-
Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
-
Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday meal.
- For extra crunch, mix in crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the stuffing.
- Add shredded cheese on top for a cheesy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg