Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, easy-to-make meal that brings comfort to your table? Look no further than this Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe! This classic dish combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is a must-try. Read on to discover all the ingredients, steps, and tips you'll need to make the perfect Chicken & Stuffing Bake!

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What is Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a savory casserole dish made with layers of seasoned chicken, stuffing, and a creamy sauce or soup. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish that captures all the flavors of a home-cooked meal, typically made using a few basic pantry ingredients. The stuffing soaks up all the flavorful juices from the chicken, resulting in a mouth-watering, tender bake that will have your family scraping the dish clean.

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Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

To make a delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake, you will need the following key ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless – 4-5 pieces)
2. Boxed Stuffing Mix (1 box, typically 6 oz, any flavor – chicken or herb works well)
3. Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
4. Chicken Broth (1 cup)
5. Sour Cream (½ cup, for creaminess)
6. Butter (¼ cup, melted)
7. Milk (¼ cup)
8. Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
9. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
10. Salt & Pepper (to taste)
11. Dried Herbs (such as thyme or parsley, 1 tsp)
12. Shredded Cheese (optional, for a cheesy topping)
13. Vegetables (optional, like frozen peas or green beans for added nutrition)

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Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to mix things up or cater to specific dietary needs, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try with this Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe. Here are some ideas:

1. Meat Variations: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Leftover rotisserie chicken also works perfectly in this dish.
2. Stuffing Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use homemade stuffing or opt for a gluten-free stuffing mix.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute: Swap out the cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor.
4. Vegetable Additions: Add extra veggies like carrots, peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
5. Dairy-Free Option: For those with lactose intolerance, you can use dairy-free sour cream and plant-based milk to make the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
6. Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffing before baking for a cheesy twist.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to make your Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
2. Cook the chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, and herbs. You can sear them in a pan with a little oil for a few minutes on each side to lock in flavor, or simply place them raw in the baking dish if you're short on time.
3. Prepare the stuffing: Follow the instructions on the box of your stuffing mix. Typically, this involves boiling water, adding butter, and stirring in the stuffing mix. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Make the sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well-mixed and smooth.
5. Assemble the bake: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or oil. Spread the cooked (or raw) chicken evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s covered.
6. Top with stuffing: Spoon the prepared stuffing on top of the chicken and sauce layer. Spread it out evenly across the dish.
7. Optional cheese topping: If you want a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheese over the stuffing before baking.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. If using raw chicken, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's cooked through.
9. Let it rest: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.

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How to Cook Chicken & Stuffing Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Season and Prepare Chicken
   Season the chicken with your desired herbs and spices. Searing the chicken beforehand helps to lock in the juices and add extra flavor.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mix
   While your chicken is cooking or resting, prepare the stuffing according to the box instructions. Usually, this involves mixing the stuffing with hot water and butter, then allowing it to sit and fluff up.
3. Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
   Combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and milk in a bowl. Whisk together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Step 4: Layer and Assemble
   In your greased baking dish, place the chicken at the bottom, pour over the creamy sauce mixture, and top everything with the prepared stuffing. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top now.
5. Step 5: Bake Until Perfection
   Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the stuffing is golden and crispy on top.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: If using pre-cooked chicken, be careful not to bake it too long, as it can dry out.
• Forgetting to season: Ensure each layer is well-seasoned. Bland stuffing or chicken can take away from the overall flavor.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow the bake to sit for at least 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
• Not checking the chicken temperature: If you use raw chicken, ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with light side dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:

1. Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect fresh contrast to the richness of the bake.
2. Vegetables: Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans.
3. Cranberry Sauce: For a festive twist, offer cranberry sauce on the side. Its tartness complements the savory flavors perfectly.

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How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Once your Chicken & Stuffing Bake has cooled slightly, use a large spoon or spatula to scoop portions onto plates. Make sure each serving includes a bit of chicken, stuffing, and sauce. You can garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Family-Style: Serve the entire dish straight from the baking pan at the table for a comforting, family-style meal.
• Individual Portions: If you want to get fancy, you can serve it in individual ramekins for portioned-out servings.
• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color.
• Festive Touch: For special occasions, serve the bake alongside cranberry sauce and decorate the table with fall-themed decorations.

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Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing leftovers: This bake freezes well. Simply portion out leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Healthier version: To make a lighter version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and swap out butter for olive oil in the stuffing.
• Cooking in a hurry? You can use rotisserie chicken and boxed stuffing to save time and still enjoy a flavorful meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! This is a great recipe for using up leftover turkey after holidays like Thanksgiving.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes! You can assemble the Chicken & Stuffing Bake up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken & Stuffing Bake?
A: Yes, this bake freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: What type of stuffing works best?
A: You can use any boxed stuffing, but chicken or herb-flavored stuffing tends to complement the flavors of the dish best.

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Conclusion

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for any family meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please. With easy-to-find ingredients and flexible substitutions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Try it out today, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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