If you’re on the lookout for a dish that wraps cozy comfort and hearty satisfaction into one, this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the ultimate weeknight magic, blending tender cooked chicken, creamy soup, and fluffy stuffing into layers of pure, golden delight. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck hit, this casserole feels like a warm hug in food form that’s easy to prepare and impossible not to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe brings together simple, staple ingredients that each play a vital role in creating its irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. From tender chicken to the crunchy topping, every bite offers a delightful balance.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or cubed for perfect texture and protein-packed heartiness.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix: Provides the traditional, savory crispy layer that crowns the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich creaminess that binds the ingredients beautifully.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances moisture and tang to keep everything luscious.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the mixture and ensures a smooth consistency.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Boosts flavor depth with natural savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle warmth and aromatic complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and savory appeal.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right kick to balance richness.
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional): Introduce color, nutrition, and extra texture variations.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Creates a golden, buttery crust on top for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light grease with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and help with cleanup later on. This simple step sets the stage for a flawless casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the mixture is silky smooth. This creamy base will bring all the flavors together and keep the casserole moist and tender.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Vegetables
Stir in your cooked chicken along with the frozen mixed vegetables if you’re using them. This adds lovely texture and nutritional goodness, and makes the dish truly satisfying. Give everything a gentle mix so the ingredients are well combined without breaking down the chicken too much.
Step 4: Layer and Prepare Stuffing
Spread half of the chicken and creamy mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions — usually by combining with melted butter and water. Then carefully spoon the stuffing over the chicken mixture, spreading it out to cover completely.
Step 5: Add Butter and Bake
Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing layer — this step guarantees a gloriously golden and crisp topping. Cover the casserole with foil and slide it into the oven to bake for 25 minutes. Once time’s up, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and bubbling hot.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole cool just a bit before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to set up perfectly. This final pause will make scooping out portions effortless and mess-free.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme to give your casserole a fresh pop of color and an herbal brightness that lifts every bite. For a little visual and textural contrast, a handful of crispy French fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking is pure bliss.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted root vegetables, or simple steamed greens like broccoli or green beans. The fresh sides add contrast and balance to the rich, creamy, and hearty elements of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, serve this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for elegant single servings. Alternatively, layer it in a clear casserole dish to showcase the beautiful textures and layers, making it equally delicious and inviting to the eyes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftovers tightly with foil or an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay great for up to 3-4 days and are perfect for a quick weekday meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to crisp up the top again. It’ll taste just like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut here, adding both flavor and convenience without sacrificing that homemade charm.
Is it okay to substitute cream of chicken soup with another flavor?
Yes, you can swap it with cream of mushroom or celery soup to give a different twist that suits your taste. Just keep the same amount to maintain the casserole’s perfect texture.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with a medley of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Also opt for a vegetarian stuffing mix to keep it meat-free.
How can I make the casserole crunchier on top?
Drizzling melted butter over the stuffing and adding crunchy toppings like French fried onions during the last 5 minutes of baking amps up the crispy texture beautifully.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe has a way of turning any ordinary night into something special with minimal effort. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with cozy flavors that truly feel like home. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how easily this dish becomes a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire.
Print
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and creamy one-dish meal perfect for a hearty family dinner. Featuring tender cooked chicken, a rich blend of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, mixed with savory stuffing on top, this casserole bakes to golden perfection. Optional mixed vegetables add extra nutrition and color, making it a delicious and easy weeknight meal loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
Stuffing Topping
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Fold in the cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables if using, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a level layer to support the stuffing topping.
- Prepare Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Carefully spoon the cooked stuffing evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
- Add Butter and Cover: Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing to enhance browning and flavor. Cover the entire dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake Covered: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven covered for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered for Crispness: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the stuffing topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and enjoy.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor twist.
- For extra crunch, top with French fried onions during the last 5 minutes of baking.
