Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole brings together tender bites of chicken, creamy sauce, and a golden, savory stuffing crust, all baked to comforting perfection. Every scoop is loaded with nostalgia and flavor, making this a go-to recipe for anyone craving hearty home-cooked goodness with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this dish is all about warmth, ease, and pure deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list to create something special—just a few classic, hardworking ingredients, each playing a vital role in the flavor, texture, and irresistible coziness of Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Here’s everything you’ll want to gather before you get started:
- Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced): Using leftover chicken or rotisserie speeds things up and adds plenty of protein and tenderness.
- Stuffing Mix (1 box/6 oz): The seasoned crumbs deliver that signature herby crunch and classic holiday flavor.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can/10.5 oz): The creamy base binds all the ingredients and keeps the casserole moist and luscious.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): This adds a gentle tang and richness that balances the savory notes beautifully.
- Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Locks in moisture and adds extra savory depth to the sauce and stuffing.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup, optional): Adds color, texture, and sneaky nutrition to every bite.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): For an easy pop of garlicky warmth without any peeling or chopping.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A guaranteed way to amp up that irresistible savory flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground is best for a subtle kick that rounds out the dish.
- Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Stirred into the stuffing for richness and a golden top.
- Chopped Parsley (for garnish, optional): Brightens up the finished casserole with a burst of green and freshness.
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Before you dive in, get your oven nice and hot at 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure every serving scoops out smoothly. This little bit of prep helps prevent sticking and gives your casserole those beautiful clean edges.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. This savory-silky sauce is the heart of your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole—it’ll ensure the chicken stays juicy and flavorful throughout baking.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Veggies
Gently fold the cooked chicken into your creamy mixture. If you’re adding frozen mixed vegetables for a pop of color and nutrition, toss them in now too. Once everything’s evenly coated, spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
In a separate bowl, either follow the box instructions to make the stuffing with hot water and butter, or simply mix your stuffing with the melted butter and hot water until fluffy. This step is what will give your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole its irresistible golden top, so don’t skimp on the butter!
Step 5: Layer and Bake
Spoon the buttery stuffing mixture in an even layer over the creamy chicken base. Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until it’s bubbling at the edges and the stuffing is beautifully toasted and golden. Let it rest for about five minutes—this helps everything set up, so servings come out neat and satisfying.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole just before serving. This simple touch adds a burst of freshness and a splash of color that makes every piece feel a little extra special. For even more flavor, a light dusting of grated parmesan or a pinch of paprika can be delightful.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a one-pan wonder, but pairing it with a crisp, tangy salad or some steamed green beans on the side adds brightness and crunch. Classic dinner rolls or warm biscuits are wonderful partners for soaking up every bit of creamy sauce, and a fruity applesauce on the side is comfort food synergy at its finest.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining or want to jazz up leftovers, try spooning individual servings into mini ramekins for an elevated look. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole also looks adorable in muffin tins—just make sure to grease them well for easy release. Garnish with fresh herbs and set out a tray for a homey buffet at your next get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your casserole has cooled, cover the dish tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making this an ideal recipe for meal-prep or busy weeknights. It reheats beautifully and stays creamy and comforting as ever.
Freezing
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a freezer champion. You can assemble everything up to a day in advance and freeze it unbaked (double-wrap in foil for best results), or freeze baked leftovers. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw overnight in the fridge or bake straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed until piping hot.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the top is re-crisped, about 20 minutes. If you’re short on time, individual servings can be microwaved until steamy—just drape with a damp paper towel to keep the stuffing from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey is the perfect swap, especially for after-holiday leftovers. The textures and flavors are similar, so your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will still come out wonderfully comforting and delicious.
Is it okay to use cream of mushroom soup as a substitute?
Yes, cream of mushroom soup works great as a replacement or in combination with cream of chicken. It adds a subtle earthiness that complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully.
What stuffing mix flavor works best?
Any classic stuffing mix will work, but herb and savory flavors are especially tasty in Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Feel free to experiment with cornbread or even sourdough varieties for a twist!
How do I add extra veggies?
Simply increase the amount of frozen mixed vegetables or stir in your favorites—think chopped broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms. This is a flexible dish, so go with what you love or what’s on hand.
Can I make this smaller or double the recipe?
Certainly! Halve the ingredients for an 8×8-inch pan, or double for a crowd in a larger baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time—smaller casseroles may cook faster, while larger ones may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an easy, soul-warming meal that’s sure to win hearts, Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a true weeknight hero. Give it a try, tweak it with your favorite touches, and watch how quickly it becomes your go-to comfort dish. Here’s to family dinners, leftovers worth fighting for, and every warm, delicious bite!
Print
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, mixed vegetables, and seasoned stuffing come together in a delicious one-pan meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in cooked chicken and vegetables if using. Spread the mixture in the baking dish.
- Add Stuffing: Prepare stuffing mix according to package instructions or mix with water and melted butter. Spoon stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly with a golden-brown top. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Add shredded cheese for extra richness.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble ahead and bake from frozen with extra time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
