Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and delivers maximum comfort, then this Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe is just what you need! This easy-to-make casserole brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this meal never fails to satisfy. Stick with us through the entire article to discover the full recipe, along with handy tips, substitutions, and ideas for perfecting this family favorite.

this Recipe

What is Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a delightful casserole made from tender chicken breasts, seasoned stuffing mix, and a flavorful sauce often made with cream of chicken soup. It's the perfect all-in-one dish because it combines a juicy protein, a savory bread component, and a creamy sauce for an ultimate comfort food experience. The stuffing on top gets golden and crispy, while the chicken stays juicy and moist inside. The whole dish is baked to perfection, creating a warm and hearty meal that is both filling and easy to prepare.

Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Here’s a list of ingredients you'll need for the classic version of Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• 1 box of stuffing mix (approximately 6 oz) – You can choose from classic or cornbread stuffing.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup – Provides the base for the creamy sauce.
• ½ cup of sour cream – Adds richness and a slight tang to the dish.
• 1 ¼ cups of chicken broth – Enhances the flavor and moisture of the stuffing.
• ½ cup of melted butter – Used to prepare the stuffing mix.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle, savory kick.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic powder and gives the dish more depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Additional Ingredients List for a Flavor Boost

For a more enhanced and flavorful dish, consider adding these ingredients:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Add it to the stuffing mix for a cheesy twist.
• ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon – Because everything’s better with bacon!
• ½ cup of frozen peas or corn – These veggies bring a pop of color and extra texture.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or ½ teaspoon dried sage – For extra herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the stuffing.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe is its versatility. There are countless ways you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or just what you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat Substitution: You can easily swap the chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer darker, juicier meat. You could even use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
• Soup Substitution: Instead of cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile. If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a homemade white sauce by combining butter, flour, and chicken broth with milk or cream.
• Stuffing Variations: Try different flavors of stuffing mix like herb-seasoned, cornbread, or even wild rice stuffing. You could also make your own stuffing from scratch using stale bread, broth, and herbs.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this dish dairy-free, swap the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with a plant-based meat substitute or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If the chicken breasts are too thick, you can pound them to an even thickness for more even cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Mix until well blended. You can also add some chicken broth to the sauce to make it a bit thinner if desired.

Step 4: Layer the Chicken and Sauce

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the soup and sour cream mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is covered evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing

In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is moist but not soggy.

Step 6: Add the Stuffing Layer

Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the top of the chicken and sauce. The stuffing will create a delicious, crunchy topping as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the stuffing is golden brown.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Once the casserole is done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the dish will hold together when sliced.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to cook Chicken & Stuffing Bake from start to finish:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken and place it in a greased baking dish.
3. Mix the creamy sauce using cream of chicken soup and sour cream, then pour over the chicken.
4. Prepare the stuffing mix by combining it with butter and chicken broth.
5. Spread the stuffing over the chicken and sauce.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
7. Rest the dish for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your Chicken & Stuffing Bake turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Be sure to monitor the baking time to prevent the chicken from drying out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the right internal temperature.
• Dry Stuffing: If the stuffing looks too dry during baking, cover the dish with foil halfway through cooking. This will help trap moisture and prevent the stuffing from becoming too crunchy.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to season the chicken before layering the sauce and stuffing on top. Without adequate seasoning, the dish might taste bland.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big part in making any dish feel extra special. Here are some tips to help you serve and present your Chicken & Stuffing Bake beautifully:

How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Serve the casserole in the same dish you baked it in for a rustic, home-style presentation. Slice the chicken and stuffing into generous portions using a spatula, making sure each serving has a good balance of stuffing, sauce, and chicken. Pair this dish with simple sides like:

• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a fresh contrast.
• Mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for extra heartiness.
• Cranberry sauce for a Thanksgiving-inspired touch.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
• Serve it in individual ramekins for a more personalized and elegant presentation.
• For a holiday meal, place the casserole on a decorative serving platter and surround it with seasonal vegetables or cranberries.

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it fresh when ready to serve.
• Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a large crowd, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in two separate dishes.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! This is a great way to use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken and proceed with the recipe.

Can I freeze Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy sauce into one hearty casserole. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends. With versatile ingredient options, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of room for customization, this recipe is one you'll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious, satisfying meal!

Print