If you’re looking for a quick and hearty dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, a Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect choice. Packed with juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and a rich blend of flavors, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a comforting meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Read on to learn how to make the best Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with detailed instructions, tips, and tricks for success!
What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a layered dish that combines tender, cooked chicken breast or thighs with a flavorful stuffing mix, usually enhanced by broth, herbs, and vegetables. Often, the recipe includes a creamy sauce—made from cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce—that ties the entire casserole together. It's a comfort food classic, beloved for its rich, satisfying taste and the way it fills your home with inviting aromas as it bakes in the oven.
Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
To prepare this delicious dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2-3 cups cooked chicken (breast or thigh meat, shredded or cubed)
- 1 box stuffing mix (approx. 6 oz)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water, if preferred)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup butter (melted)
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping, cheddar works well)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra herb flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Ingredients List for the Creamy Sauce
If you want to skip the canned soup and make your own creamy sauce for a homemade touch, you'll need:
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for a hint of color and flavor)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about a Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen or your family’s preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:
- Different Meat: Swap chicken for turkey, especially after Thanksgiving when you may have leftover turkey to use. Ham also works for a different flavor profile.
- Stuffing: Use homemade stuffing if you prefer, or try a cornbread stuffing mix for a unique twist.
- Cream Soup Substitution: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom or celery soup will work as well.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like peas, green beans, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and cream of chicken soup to make the dish gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese if necessary.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is straightforward to make and can be prepared in just a few steps. Follow these instructions to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly every time:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Prepare the Stuffing Mix: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with chicken broth (or water) and melted butter. Stir well and set aside to allow the stuffing to absorb the liquid.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrots (if using) in a bit of oil or butter until they become soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: In another large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture, spreading it into an even layer.
- Top with Cheese (Optional): If you’re adding shredded cheese, sprinkle it evenly on top of the stuffing layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Cook Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Your Chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can easily cook it beforehand by boiling, grilling, or pan-frying until fully cooked. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder while cooking for extra flavor.
- Make the Creamy Sauce (if homemade): To make the creamy sauce from scratch, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add seasonings and cook until thickened.
- Assemble the Layers: Place the chicken layer at the bottom of the casserole dish, followed by the creamy soup or sauce mixture. Spread the prepared stuffing on top for a complete casserole.
- Bake: Let the casserole bake for 30-35 minutes at 350°F until golden and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Pre-cooked chicken can dry out quickly, so be careful not to overcook it during the initial cooking phase.
- Dry Stuffing: If you don’t use enough liquid in the stuffing, it can come out too dry. Make sure to moisten the stuffing mix adequately with broth or water before baking.
- Uneven Layers: Ensure that all layers are spread evenly in the casserole dish to guarantee every bite has a balance of flavors.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: After baking, give the casserole time to set for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps prevent the layers from falling apart when you cut into the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, there are plenty of creative ways to make it a visually appealing dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, presentation matters. Below are some tips to help you serve your casserole with style:
- Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in small ramekins or individual oven-safe dishes for a fun and personal touch.
- Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color by garnishing with fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
- Side Dish Pairings: Serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Family Style: Place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. This casual serving style is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Holiday Table: This dish makes an excellent addition to holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Pair it with cranberry sauce and green beans for a festive touch.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Rustic Look: Use a cast-iron skillet or a vintage ceramic dish to give the casserole a rustic and homely presentation.
- Layered Casserole: Carefully layer the ingredients so that each slice of casserole shows off distinct layers of chicken, stuffing, and sauce when served.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this casserole and saves time on prep.
3. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup. Alternatively, you can make your own homemade creamy sauce with the ingredients listed above.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or green beans to the chicken mixture for added texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something warm and hearty. With its savory stuffing, creamy chicken filling, and a topping of melted cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences. So why not try it tonight? You’ll be making it again and again once you see how simple and delicious it is!
PrintChicken And Stuffing Casserole Recipe
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe is a comforting family favorite made with tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy sauce. With simple ingredients like chicken breast, stuffing mix, and cream of chicken soup, this easy casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. Enjoy a savory, satisfying dish that brings homemade comfort to the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the shredded chicken at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by an optional layer of mixed vegetables.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Spread the prepared stuffing mix on top of the casserole.
- Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the stuffing is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sautéed onions and celery to the stuffing mixture.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
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