If you're looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner that pleases the whole family, look no further than this Chicken Stuffing Bake recipe. Combining tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner for guests, this recipe will surely satisfy. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making this mouthwatering dish, including ingredient lists, substitutions, step-by-step instructions, and tips for a perfect bake every time!
What is Chicken Stuffing Bake?
Chicken Stuffing Bake is a cozy casserole dish made with chicken breasts (or thighs), stuffing mix, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. Everything is baked together until bubbly, golden, and irresistible. The combination of tender chicken and the flavorful stuffing, which acts like a crust, makes for a winning dinner recipe that is filling, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients List for Chicken Stuffing Bake
To make this Chicken Stuffing Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: You can use either breasts for leaner meat or thighs for more flavor.
- 1 box of stuffing mix (about 6 oz): The stuffing mix gives the bake a crunchy texture and savory flavor. You can use any brand you prefer, but herb-seasoned stuffing works particularly well.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup: This acts as the base of your creamy sauce.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds a creamy tang and balances the richness.
- 1 ½ cups of chicken broth: This helps keep the dish moist and adds flavor to the stuffing mix.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For added depth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To taste, though the canned soup and stuffing mix may already contain sodium, so adjust accordingly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a bit of warmth and seasoning.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional): You can use peas, carrots, corn, or green beans to add more nutrition to the dish.
Ingredients List for Chicken Stuffing Bake (Optional Variations)
You can also customize your Chicken Stuffing Bake with some optional ingredients, depending on your taste or what you have on hand:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese: Add this for a cheesy layer on top of your stuffing for extra richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs like parsley or thyme: Fresh herbs will give the dish a brighter, more fragrant flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a bit of color and subtle smoky flavor.
- Chopped bacon or ham: These can be mixed into the dish for extra savory flavor and texture.
- Fresh mushrooms or sautéed onions: Add these for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup: You can substitute cream of chicken soup with either of these for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions and Variations
There are plenty of ways to adjust this Chicken Stuffing Bake recipe to meet dietary preferences or to use up ingredients you already have on hand. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure your canned soup is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. You can also use a dairy-free cream soup.
- Vegetarian Version: You can replace the chicken with plant-based "chicken" substitutes or use extra firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Low-Carb Version: For those watching their carb intake, you can replace the stuffing with a low-carb option like cauliflower stuffing or keto-friendly bread cubes.
- Spicy Variation: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the easy steps for making this delightful Chicken Stuffing Bake!
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly.
- Prepare the Stuffing Mix: Follow the package directions for preparing the stuffing mix, using chicken broth instead of water to add more flavor.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole if you prefer.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and any optional seasonings (such as paprika). Mix well until smooth.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the chicken at the bottom. If you’re using frozen vegetables, scatter them over the chicken. Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies. Then, spread the prepared stuffing over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F).
- Optional Cheese Topping: If you want to add cheese, sprinkle it over the stuffing during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
How to Cook Chicken Stuffing Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this Chicken Stuffing Bake is incredibly straightforward. The key steps are as follows:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F for even cooking.
- Season and prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces or keeping the breasts whole, depending on your preference.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Mix the creamy sauce made of sour cream and cream of chicken soup.
- Layer the ingredients: chicken at the bottom, followed by optional veggies, the creamy sauce, and the stuffing on top.
- Bake it covered, then uncovered for a golden brown finish.
- Serve while hot and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too little liquid: The stuffing needs enough moisture to stay fluffy and soft while baking. Be sure to use the correct amount of chicken broth.
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid drying it out.
- Not covering the bake: If you don’t cover the dish for the first half of baking, the stuffing can dry out too much.
- Skipping the seasoning: Make sure to season both the chicken and the creamy sauce for a more flavorful bake.
Serving and Presentation Tips
While the Chicken Stuffing Bake is delicious straight out of the oven, a few thoughtful touches can elevate its presentation and make it more appealing on the dinner table.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake
- Side Dish Pairings: This bake pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of cranberry sauce for a complete comfort meal.
- Family-Style Serving: Serve directly from the casserole dish for a cozy, family-style meal.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Stuffing Bake
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
- Serve in Individual Portions: Use ramekins or smaller baking dishes to serve individual portions for a more formal presentation.
Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
- Use Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for using leftover turkey, especially during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Chicken Stuffing Bake? Yes, you can! Allow the bake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and green beans work wonderfully. Just be sure to par-cook them before adding them to the bake.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken. Just layer it into the dish and adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
4. What type of stuffing works best for this recipe? A herb-seasoned stuffing mix works best, but feel free to use cornbread stuffing or any other variety you enjoy.
Conclusion
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is the epitome of comfort food — warm, savory, and satisfying. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or serving it during the holidays, it's sure to become a family favorite. With easy-to-find ingredients, minimal prep work, and endless possibilities for customization, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again. Don't forget to try the suggested variations and tips to make the dish truly your own!
PrintChicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
This Chicken Stuffing Bake recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts, savory stuffing mix, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. Ideal for busy weeknights, it combines classic flavors that everyone loves. Keywords: chicken stuffing bake, easy chicken casserole, baked chicken with stuffing, chicken dinner recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box of stuffing mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box of stuffing mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
- Add frozen vegetables like peas or green beans to make it a complete one-dish meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with stuffing
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
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