Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

If you're in search of an easy, comforting, and family-friendly meal, this Chicken & Stuffing Bake is exactly what you need! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with savory stuffing and a creamy sauce to create a cozy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners. It’s hearty, flavorful, and requires minimal prep time, making it a go-to dish for when you need something delicious without a lot of effort.

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What is Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a comforting casserole that layers tender chicken breasts with a creamy sauce, topped with a savory stuffing mixture that gets deliciously crisp in the oven. It's like a deconstructed chicken dinner, where stuffing, chicken, and gravy all come together in one dish. This casserole is usually made with a combination of cooked or uncooked chicken, stuffing mix (like Stove Top), and a creamy base made from soup and sour cream. It's incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and can be customized with vegetables or other add-ins to suit your tastes.

Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting and hearty casserole. This recipe serves 4-6 people but can be easily adjusted for larger gatherings.

For the Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ to 2 pounds)
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for greasing the dish)
• 1 cup frozen or canned mixed vegetables (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is very adaptable, so you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Chicken Alternatives: Use cooked rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even chicken thighs if you prefer. Just shred or dice the meat and layer it in the casserole.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based chicken substitute or omit the chicken altogether and add more vegetables.
• Stuffing Options: You can use homemade stuffing, cornbread stuffing, or any stuffing mix you like (including gluten-free options).
• Cheesy Twist: Add a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the creamy sauce or sprinkle it on top of the stuffing before baking for extra flavor.
• Veggies: To make this a more complete meal, add in frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn), or fresh veggies like broccoli or spinach.
• Lighter Version: Substitute light sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to whip up this easy and comforting casserole? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides. You can either leave the chicken breasts whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them up will reduce the cooking time and make serving easier.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until smooth. If you're adding vegetables, stir them into the creamy sauce at this stage.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Place the chicken breasts (or cut pieces) in the greased baking dish. Spread the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing

In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves adding hot water and butter to the stuffing mix and letting it sit for a few minutes until the bread absorbs the liquid. Fluff the stuffing with a fork.

Step 6: Add the Stuffing Layer

Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the top of the creamy chicken mixture. Make sure the stuffing covers the entire dish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the stuffing is golden and crispy on top. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, bake for 25-30 minutes just to heat everything through and crisp the stuffing.

Step 8: Let It Rest and Serve

Once the Chicken & Stuffing Bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken & Stuffing Bake turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Dry Chicken: If your chicken breasts are very thick, they can take longer to cook, potentially resulting in dry chicken. You can pound them to an even thickness or use pre-cooked, shredded chicken for more even cooking.
• Soggy Stuffing: To keep the stuffing crispy, don’t add too much liquid to the stuffing mix, and avoid covering the casserole while baking. The top layer should crisp up nicely as it bakes uncovered.
• Undercooked Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the stuffing starts to brown too much before the chicken is fully cooked, you can loosely cover the casserole with foil for the remaining bake time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a hearty, all-in-one meal, but it can be enhanced with a few tasty sides or garnishes.

How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table. Use a large spoon to dish out hearty portions of chicken and stuffing for each person.
• With Sides: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve it with cranberry sauce or a side of steamed green beans for a holiday-style dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Serve in Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into neat squares and serve on individual plates with a drizzle of gravy or sauce on the side.

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Use Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken or turkey from a previous meal. Just shred the cooked meat and layer it in the casserole.
• Customize the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the creamy sauce. You can add a pinch of thyme, sage, or rosemary for extra flavor, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Chicken & Stuffing Bake?
A: Yes! You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this dish without cream of chicken soup?
A: Yes, if you prefer to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and ½ cup of milk. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then use it in place of the condensed soup.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To make this recipe lighter, use reduced-fat sour cream, low-sodium chicken broth, and a low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also add more vegetables to the casserole to make it a more balanced meal.

Q: Can I use different types of stuffing?
A: Yes! You can use cornbread stuffing, herb stuffing, or even a homemade stuffing recipe. Just follow the instructions on your stuffing mix or adjust the liquid ratios if making from scratch.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory stuffing for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing for a holiday dinner, or just want a cozy meal for your family, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. With minimal prep and a short baking time, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this warm, savory, and delicious casserole!

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