Looking for an easy yet delicious recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table? This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect dish that blends juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and rich flavors into a meal that your entire family will love. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a special dinner, this casserole delivers all the right flavors in one easy-to-make recipe. Read on to find out exactly how to make the perfect Chicken and Stuffing Casserole from scratch.
What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender, cooked chicken with seasoned stuffing mix and a creamy sauce, all baked together in one pan. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, and it can be adapted to fit various tastes by changing the ingredients slightly. It’s simple, quick, and tastes just like home.
Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
To get started, here are the key ingredients you’ll need for the base of the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:
- Chicken Breasts (4 cooked and shredded or diced)
- You can also use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease.
- Stuffing Mix (1 box or around 6 cups)
- Any brand of seasoned stuffing mix works, or you can make your own if you prefer.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (2 cans, 10.5 oz each)
- This will add the creamy element to your casserole.
- Sour Cream (1 cup)
- Adds richness and tang to balance the flavors.
- Chicken Broth (1 ½ cups)
- Moistens the stuffing and ensures your casserole isn’t dry.
- Onion (1 small, diced)
- Provides an aromatic base to enhance flavor.
- Celery (2 stalks, finely chopped)
- Adds a bit of crunch and freshness.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, melted)
- Mixed with the stuffing to give a nice, buttery flavor.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Simple seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins
To make the recipe your own, you can also add in any of the following ingredients:
- Mixed Vegetables (1 ½ cups frozen or cooked)
- Peas, carrots, and corn are great options to mix into the casserole.
- Cheese (1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella)
- Adding a cheesy layer can make the casserole even more indulgent.
- Mushrooms (1 cup sliced, optional)
- Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
- Herbs (½ teaspoon each of thyme or rosemary)
- These can add depth to the stuffing and chicken mixture.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences, here are some ideas:
- Use Turkey Instead of Chicken: This is a great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers if you want to swap out the chicken for turkey.
- Gluten-Free Stuffing: Opt for a gluten-free stuffing mix or make your own from gluten-free bread if you have dietary restrictions.
- Lower Calorie Options: Substitute the cream of chicken soup for a low-fat version and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to cut back on calories without sacrificing taste.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's walk through the step-by-step process of making this delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying it with non-stick spray.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions.
- Typically, this involves mixing the stuffing with melted butter and chicken broth. Let it sit to absorb the liquid.
- Combine the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onions, and celery in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the creamy chicken layer of the casserole.
- Layer the ingredients in the baking dish.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- If you're adding any optional ingredients like vegetables or cheese, sprinkle them over the chicken layer at this point.
- Spread the prepared stuffing mix on top of the chicken layer.
- Press it down gently to create an even topping.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes.
- You want the top to become golden and crispy, and the inside to be heated through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- This allows everything to set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Cook Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
To make it even simpler, here’s a breakdown of how you can cook this meal with ease:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the stuffing: Follow the package directions by combining the stuffing mix, butter, and chicken broth. Set it aside to absorb.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onions, and celery.
- Layer the dish: Start with the chicken mixture on the bottom, followed by any optional ingredients, and top with the stuffing mixture.
- Bake and serve: Pop it in the oven, bake for about 30-35 minutes until the top is crispy and golden, then let it rest before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Not Moistening the Stuffing Enough: If you don't add enough chicken broth, the stuffing can come out dry. Make sure it's fully moistened.
- Overcooking the Chicken: If your chicken is overcooked before it goes into the casserole, it can dry out during baking. Use pre-cooked, tender chicken or rotisserie chicken for the best results.
- Forgetting to Pre-cook the Vegetables: If you’re adding raw vegetables, make sure to sauté them first or use frozen ones that are partially cooked. Raw veggies may not cook through in the casserole.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A casserole may be a humble dish, but it doesn't have to look that way on the dinner table! Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top after baking to add a pop of color.
- Use a Decorative Dish: Serve the casserole straight from a beautifully glazed ceramic dish for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with Cheese: A layer of melted cheese on top can not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing with a golden crust.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside some simple sides for a well-rounded dinner:
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the richness of the casserole.
- Green Beans or Asparagus: A side of steamed or roasted green beans or asparagus adds a healthy, fresh component.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an even heartier meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
For special occasions or just a little added flair, try these presentation ideas:
- Individual Casserole Dishes: Serve in small, individual ramekins for a more formal presentation.
- Rustic Style: Serve it straight from the baking dish with a large serving spoon, giving it a cozy, family-style feel.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are a few extra tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfect every time:
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
- Freezer-Friendly: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Double the Recipe: This recipe easily doubles if you’re feeding a crowd. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Leftover turkey works just as well, making this a great post-holiday recipe.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake when you're ready.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect dish when you're craving comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you’re using up leftovers or starting from scratch, this recipe is flexible, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table. With a few basic ingredients and a little time in the oven, you'll have a delicious, hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!
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Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe features a blend of juicy chicken breasts, savory stuffing, and creamy ingredients for a cozy, hearty dish. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is simple to make with pantry staples like chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. It's a satisfying comfort food that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and place the chicken breasts in it. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Spread the mixture over the chicken.
- Prepare the stuffing according to package instructions. Spread the stuffing evenly over the soup layer.
- Drizzle melted butter on top of the stuffing.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for a quicker version.
- Add vegetables like green beans or peas for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
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