Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Looking for a dish that's cozy, hearty, and sure to be a family favorite? Look no further than this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe! Whether you're cooking for a holiday gathering or just a weeknight dinner, this casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make option that will satisfy everyone at the table. With tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Read on for the step-by-step guide, ingredient list, and tips to perfect this amazing recipe!

What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a classic American comfort dish made by layering seasoned, cooked chicken breast with stuffing and a creamy sauce. The stuffing becomes slightly crisp on the top but remains moist underneath, creating a blend of textures. It's a filling, satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this scrumptious casserole:

1. Chicken Breasts – 3-4 medium-sized, boneless and skinless. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
2. Stuffing Mix – 1 box (about 6 oz) of your favorite brand. Herb-flavored stuffing adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can use any variety.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz). This adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
4. Sour Cream – 1 cup. This balances the saltiness of the stuffing and provides a creamy texture.
5. Chicken Broth – 1 cup. You can also use water if you prefer, but broth adds extra flavor.
6. Butter – ¼ cup, melted. For combining with the stuffing mix to make it nice and buttery.
7. Onion – 1 small, finely diced, for added flavor and texture.
8. Celery – 1-2 stalks, chopped, for crunch and flavor.
9. Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon, to season the chicken and enhance the flavor of the dish.
10. Salt and Pepper – To taste.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

1. Protein Variations – Instead of chicken, you could use leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even ham. This is a great way to use up holiday leftovers.
2. Vegetarian Version – Omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Many brands offer these alternatives.
4. Cheesy Variation – If you’re a cheese lover, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the stuffing mix or sprinkle some on top for a cheesy twist.
5. Extra Veggies – Add in vegetables like green beans, carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this mouthwatering Chicken and Stuffing Casserole? Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly and be perfectly golden brown on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and celery for about 3-4 minutes until softened. This adds extra flavor and texture to the casserole.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir until smooth. This creamy mixture will keep the stuffing moist and flavorful during baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing

In another large bowl, mix the stuffing mix with the melted butter. Pour the chicken broth over the stuffing and stir until combined. Let it sit for a few minutes so the stuffing can absorb the liquid.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the shredded chicken evenly at the bottom. Pour the sautéed onions and celery over the chicken. Next, pour the creamy sauce mixture over the vegetables and chicken. Finally, top the casserole with the prepared stuffing mix.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The creamy sauce should be bubbling up around the edges.

Step 8: Let it Cool

Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice.

How to Cook Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To make sure your casserole comes out perfectly every time, follow these key tips:

1. Pre-Cook the Chicken – Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. This prevents any undercooked chicken and ensures even cooking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Stuffing – When preparing the stuffing, don’t overmix it. You want the stuffing to be fluffy, not mushy, so gently fold in the liquid until it’s just combined.
3. Bake Until Golden – The casserole is ready when the stuffing on top is golden and crispy. If needed, you can broil the casserole for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end to get a crunchier top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken – Chicken can become dry if overcooked, so keep an eye on it while browning. It should be just cooked through before being added to the casserole.
2. Too Much Liquid – While the creamy sauce keeps the stuffing moist, too much liquid can make the casserole soggy. Stick to the recipe measurements to avoid this.
3. Not Letting It Rest – After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to firm up and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. Here are some serving ideas to make your meal complete:

How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with:

• Green beans or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• A light, crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness, especially if you're serving this dish during the holidays.
• A buttery dinner roll to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• For a more elegant presentation, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or rosemary for a pop of color.
• Serve in individual ramekins for a more personalized dining experience at dinner parties.
• Arrange slices of the casserole on a decorative platter for a more formal gathering, and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until you're ready to bake it. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe and can save you time!

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Q: How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it, freeze, and bake from frozen or after thawing.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, hearty Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal, a holiday dish, or a make-ahead dinner option, this casserole ticks all the boxes. With its tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and creamy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Try it today and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic comfort food!

Print