Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a quick, comforting, and hearty dinner, then this Chicken Stuffing Bake is the perfect recipe for you! With tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce all baked together in one dish, it’s no wonder this meal is a go-to for busy weeknights and family gatherings. Whether you’re looking to use up some leftover chicken or want to create a delicious casserole from scratch, this recipe will not disappoint. Read on to discover the step-by-step guide to making this easy and satisfying dish.

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What is Chicken Stuffing Bake?

Chicken Stuffing Bake is a simple, one-pan casserole that combines shredded or cubed chicken with a stuffing mix, creamy sauce, and sometimes vegetables. The dish is then baked until everything is hot and bubbly, and the stuffing is crispy on top. It’s a comforting, all-in-one meal that's perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Best of all, it uses pantry staples like stuffing mix, canned soup, and pre-cooked chicken, making it an incredibly easy and convenient recipe.

This dish is an excellent way to bring a cozy, holiday vibe to the dinner table year-round, and it’s especially handy if you need a quick meal with minimal prep.

Ingredients List for Chicken Stuffing Bake

Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delicious casserole:

• 4 cups cooked, shredded or cubed chicken – Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this, or you can cook and shred your own chicken breasts.
• 1 (6 oz) box of stuffing mix – A classic like Stove Top stuffing mix will add great flavor, but you can use any brand you prefer.
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery, depending on your taste.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
• 1 cup chicken broth – For extra moisture and flavor.
• ½ cup milk – To thin out the sauce and make it extra creamy.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional) – Peas, carrots, and corn work great for adding some color and nutrition to the bake.
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional) – For extra richness when mixing the stuffing.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season as you prefer.

Ingredients List for Chicken Stuffing Bake (Optional Additions)

If you want to make your casserole a little more exciting, here are a few extra ingredients you can toss in:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a cheesy twist that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken and stuffing.
• ¼ cup chopped celery – Adds a crunch to the dish and more of that classic stuffing flavor.
• ½ cup chopped onions – To give the casserole extra flavor depth.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder or minced garlic – Adds a garlicky flavor to the creamy sauce.
• Fresh herbs – Chopped parsley, thyme, or sage for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible and can be adjusted to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Vegetarian option – Swap out the chicken for a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Creamy base alternatives – If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade creamy sauce by combining a roux (butter and flour) with chicken broth and milk.
• Stuffing mix variations – Feel free to experiment with different stuffing flavors, like cornbread stuffing, savory herb stuffing, or even gluten-free stuffing.
• Dairy-free option – Use a dairy-free sour cream substitute, dairy-free milk, and leave out any cheese to make the recipe suitable for lactose intolerant or vegan diets.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your Chicken Stuffing Bake? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious casserole ready to serve in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Most stuffing mixes require you to combine the dry stuffing with hot water and a bit of butter. Set the prepared stuffing aside while you assemble the rest of the casserole.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and milk until smooth. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. This creamy base will hold the casserole together and add tons of flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Vegetables

Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and the frozen mixed vegetables (if using) into the creamy sauce mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, spoon the prepared stuffing over the top of the chicken mixture, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to thicken up and makes it easier to portion out.

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

To recap the process of making Chicken Stuffing Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish.
2. Prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions.
3. Mix the creamy base with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and milk.
4. Stir in the chicken and vegetables into the creamy mixture.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering the chicken mixture and topping with stuffing.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden.
7. Rest the dish for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with an easy casserole like this, there are a few things to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfect:

• Overcooking the chicken – If you’re using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken, don’t bake it for too long, as it can become dry. The baking process is more about heating everything through than cooking the chicken.
• Using too much liquid – Be careful not to add too much broth or milk to the creamy base. The casserole should be creamy but not soupy.
• Skipping the resting time – It’s important to let the casserole rest after it comes out of the oven. This allows the stuffing to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you present and serve your Chicken Stuffing Bake can make the meal feel extra special. Here are a few tips:

• Fresh garnish – Add some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sides – Serve with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes to balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Sauce – Consider serving the casserole with a side of cranberry sauce, especially if you want a Thanksgiving-inspired twist.

How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out with some additional sides, here are some ideas:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy, crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Cranberry sauce for a festive and tangy accompaniment, especially around the holidays.
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a double-comfort combo.
• Crusty bread for soaking up all the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Stuffing Bake

Presentation makes all the difference, even with a humble casserole like this. Here are a few easy ideas to make your dish look great:

• Serve in a cast-iron skillet – Baking and serving the casserole in a cast-iron skillet gives it a rustic, homey look.
• Individual ramekins – For a more elegant presentation, divide the casserole into individual ramekins before baking for single-serve portions.
• Garnish with herbs – Add some freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of green.

Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

Want to ensure your Chicken Stuffing Bake is always a hit? Here are a few pro tips:

• Use rotisserie chicken – It’s quick, easy, and adds tons of flavor.
• Make ahead – This casserole can be assembled in advance and baked when ready. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Mix up the stuffing flavors – Experiment with different stuffing flavors like cornbread, herb, or sausage for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. If baking directly from the fridge, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze

Chicken Stuffing Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking it. Assemble the casserole, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Yes, shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella can be added to the chicken mixture or sprinkled on top before baking for an extra cheesy casserole.

Conclusion

This Chicken Stuffing Bake recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors—all baked into one delicious casserole. It’s easy to make, flexible enough for variations, and a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or making a cozy meal for a holiday gathering, this casserole will surely become a favorite. Enjoy!

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