Chicken Stuffing Casserole has always been my go-to for those nights when I crave something truly comforting and satisfying. I remember my mom making it on chilly autumn evenings, the aroma of savory herbs wafting from the oven, promising a hearty meal. This isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a dish! It’s the ultimate comfort food chicken stuffing casserole that I’ve adapted over the years to make it even easier and more delicious. Get ready for a simple, flavorful chicken and stuffing bake that will become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stuffing Casserole

This dish is a weeknight winner for so many reasons!

• The taste is incredibly savory and satisfying, with tender chicken and a perfectly seasoned stuffing topping.
• It’s a super easy chicken stuffing bake, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Packed with protein from the chicken, it’s a hearty and filling option for dinner.
• It’s incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
• This dish is a huge hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.
• As an easy chicken stuffing bake, the minimal prep work means dinner is on the table in under an hour.
• It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you up from the inside out.
• You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.

Ingredients for Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful chicken casserole with stuffing mix. I love how straightforward this list is, making it perfect for busy weeknights. For more information on common pantry staples, check out this guide on versatile grains.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver here!
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 295 g) cream of chicken soup – This forms the creamy base of our casserole.
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth – Adds moisture and helps the stuffing get tender.
• 1 box (6 oz / 170 g) stuffing mix – The star of the topping, providing that classic savory flavor and texture.
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream – For extra creaminess and a slight tang.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Optional, but adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Learn about the many benefits of onions.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Essential for that savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the fresh onion, if using.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – For a touch of herbaceousness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Optional, but who can resist a cheesy topping?
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Always season to perfection!

How to Make Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Creating this delicious creamy chicken stuffing casserole is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is fully heated before you start assembling. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth. Let this sit for about 5 minutes to allow the stuffing to soften slightly. This ensures a tender topping.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the 1 can (10.5 oz / 295 g) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. This mixture creates the luscious base for our creamy chicken stuffing casserole.
4. Step 4: Add the 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced, to the creamy soup mixture. If you’re using the onion, stir in the 1 small onion, finely chopped, now as well. Gently mix everything until the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Spread this chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. You want a nice, even layer so it bakes uniformly.
6. Step 6: Spoon the softened stuffing mixture over the chicken layer. Gently spread it to cover the entire surface. This is what gives our casserole that classic, satisfying crunch.
7. Step 7: Bake for 35–40 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to be bubbly around the edges and the stuffing topping to be golden brown. If you want a gorgeous, cheesy crust, sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffing during the last 5 minutes of baking.
8. Step 8: Once out of the oven, let the chicken stuffing casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy the warm, savory aroma!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Stuffing Casserole

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really take it from good to absolutely amazing. They ensure you get that perfect texture and flavor every time you whip up this savory chicken stuffing casserole.

• For an extra moist and tender chicken layer, use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and adding fantastic flavor.
• Don’t skip soaking the stuffing mix! This step is crucial for preventing a dry, crunchy topping and ensures a more integrated texture.
• If you want an even richer flavor, try adding a handful of sautéed mushrooms or peas to the chicken and soup mixture.
• For a crispier topping, bake the casserole uncovered for the entire time. If you prefer softer stuffing, cover it with foil for the first 25 minutes, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Stuffing Casserole?

The secret to a perfect savory chicken stuffing casserole lies in the balance of moisture. Ensure your stuffing mix is well-moistened by the broth and that your creamy sauce isn’t too thick. This combination guarantees a tender bite under that golden, crispy topping. For a similar comforting pasta dish, try this spaghetti with mushroom sauce.

Can I make Chicken Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the topping if you want it extra crisp, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the stuffing topping and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Stuffing Casserole?

A common pitfall is dry stuffing, which happens if you don’t let it soak properly or use too little liquid. Another mistake is overbaking, which can dry out the chicken. Always check for bubbling edges and a golden-brown topping; remove it from the oven promptly once done. For other simple dinner ideas, consider this collection of dinner recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Stuffing Casserole

This hearty chicken stuffing casserole for dinner is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a truly classic meal, I love serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also make perfect additions, adding a fresh, vibrant element.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, mashed potatoes or a sweet potato casserole complement the savory flavors of the stuffing topping. Honestly, this dish is so satisfying on its own, but a side of cranberry sauce or a dollop of sour cream can add an extra layer of deliciousness. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a comforting family meal. You might also enjoy this homemade tomato sauce as a side.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Stuffing Casserole

This hearty dish offers a satisfying meal, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. As with most home-cooked meals, these are estimates and can vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Leftovers are the best, aren’t they? Properly storing and reheating this chicken stuffing casserole ensures you can enjoy its comforting goodness later. For a truly quick chicken stuffing casserole experience the next day, proper storage is key.

Once your chicken stuffing casserole has cooled down for about 20-30 minutes, you can store it. For refrigeration, place the cooled casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you plan to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, you have a few options. For a quick reheat, you can microwave individual portions until heated through. If you prefer a crispier topping, I recommend reheating in a 350°F (175°C) oven. Place leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the stuffing topping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Stuffing Casserole

What is the best stuffing mix to use for Chicken Stuffing Casserole?

For the best chicken stuffing casserole, I recommend a classic savory or herb-flavored stuffing mix. While the recipe calls for a 6 oz box, you can use a larger one if you prefer a thicker, crispier topping. The key is ensuring it gets enough moisture from the broth to become tender, so follow the soaking step! For a different kind of comfort food, try these easy cinnamon rolls.

How do I make chicken stuffing casserole without cream of chicken soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can easily substitute it. A can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup works wonderfully and adds a slightly different, delicious flavor profile to your chicken stuffing casserole. Some people even use a mixture of sour cream and milk for a lighter sauce, but the soup provides that classic creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the flavor and nutrition of your chicken stuffing casserole. I often stir in a cup of frozen peas and carrots, or some sautéed mushrooms and onions, along with the chicken. Just make sure they are cooked or thawed before adding them to the mix to avoid excess moisture. For more vegetable inspiration, see this post on vegetable gardening.

Is there a way to make Chicken Stuffing Casserole healthier?

To make how to make chicken stuffing casserole a bit healthier, you can use whole wheat stuffing mix or even a mix made from whole grain breadcrumbs. Opting for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and reduced-sodium broth also helps. Adding plenty of vegetables, as mentioned above, contributes to a more balanced meal.

Variations of Chicken Stuffing Casserole You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your Chicken Stuffing Casserole! I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas I’ve discovered that are absolutely delicious.

• Cheesy Chicken Stuffing Casserole: Amp up the cheese factor by mixing 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese directly into the chicken and soup mixture, in addition to the topping. It makes for an incredibly decadent and gooey dish.
• Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and double up on veggies! Sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, and carrots make a fantastic base. You can also add a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein.
• Slow Cooker Shortcut: For an even easier meal, combine all the ingredients (except the stuffing topping) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the stuffing mix and cook, uncovered, on high for another 20-30 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the chicken mixture for a little heat. A drizzle of sriracha over the top before serving also works wonders!

Print