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If you’re craving a comforting, family-friendly dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts baked under a creamy blanket of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, all topped with a crispy, flavorful stuffing mix that adds irresistible crunch and heartiness. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole turns weeknight dinner chaos into a joyful, crowd-pleasing feast that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the juicy chicken breasts to the savory stuffing and creamy sauce, every component combines to create cozy comfort food magic.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing tender, juicy bites when baked just right.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top): Adds that classic crunchy topping with savory herbs for a perfect finish.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: A creamy, flavorful base that keeps the chicken moist and adds depth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and richness to the sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce, ensuring it’s smooth and luscious without being too thick.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Used to moisten the stuffing mix, infusing it with extra savory goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic warmth that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the presentation.
How to Make Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish is a small but crucial step—it prevents sticking and makes serving much easier later on.
Step 2: Moistening the Stuffing Mix
In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth until well moistened. This step lets the flavors soak into the stuffing while helping it crisp up nicely on top without becoming dry or hard.
Step 3: Season and Arrange Your Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple trio of seasonings punches up the flavor without overwhelming the palate. Place the chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish, making sure each piece has some room.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, which will keep the meat tender and add a rich layer to the bake.
Step 5: Top with the Stuffing
Now, carefully spread the moistened stuffing mix over the saucy chicken layer. This topping will bake into a delicious, crispy crust that perfectly contrasts with the creamy sauce underneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing topping turns a golden, irresistible brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the bake with fresh chopped parsley if you like for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve it warm, and enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also try chopped chives or a light sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can add a pleasant brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp mixed salad to balance the creamy and hearty main dish. Roasted carrots or steamed asparagus also complement it well, adding color and subtle sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe straight from the casserole dish for a cozy, homestyle feel. Alternatively, plate individual servings garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of pan juices for a restaurant-style touch that will impress guests without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. After baking, cool it completely, then wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the stuffing regains some crispness. Microwaving works too but can soften the topping slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and proper internal temperature. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator before starting the recipe.
What stuffing mix works best for this recipe?
Any boxed stuffing mix with savory herb flavors works well, such as Stove Top original or herb and garlic varieties. Avoid seasoned mixes with cheese or sausage flavors that might overpower the dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sour cream and milk?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free sour cream and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure the soup you use is also dairy-free or use a homemade chicken sauce alternative.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Absolutely! Chopped mushrooms, diced celery, or shredded carrots can be stirred into the stuffing mix before topping the chicken to add extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm and no longer pink in the center.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is a total winner when you want a fuss-free, cozy meal that feels homemade and special without hours in the kitchen. Its combination of juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce satisfies comfort food cravings in the best way. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple at your dinner table!
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Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and simple casserole featuring tender boneless chicken breasts topped with flavorful stuffing and a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines classic ingredients like stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, baked to golden perfection for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Stuffing
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for moistening stuffing)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Moisten stuffing mix: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well until the stuffing is evenly moistened. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the chicken.
- Season and arrange chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Whisk until smooth and fully blended. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Add the stuffing layer: Spoon the moistened stuffing mixture evenly over the creamy sauce and chicken layer, spreading it out to cover completely.
- Bake covered then uncovered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top of the stuffing is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish the bake with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty chicken stuffing bake.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken breasts are all roughly the same thickness to ensure even cooking.
- For extra flavor, you can add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the stuffing mix before spreading it on top.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking uncovered, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
