There’s something truly heartwarming about the aroma of a bubbling Chicken and Stuffing Casserole wafting through the house, especially on a chilly evening. Just the other day, I was sifting through my pantry, feeling uninspired by the same old recipes, when I remembered this comforting classic. With its tender chicken nestled beneath a luxuriously seasoned stuffing, it quickly became a go-to dish, perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family dinners.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It combines everyday ingredients into a dish that feels both rich and indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s an effortless crowd-pleaser that offers warmth and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice when hosting friends or simply gathering around the dinner table with loved ones. So, if you’re looking to elevate your weeknight meals and ditch the fast food, join me in whipping up this delightful Chicken and Stuffing Casserole!
Why You'll Love This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.
- You’ll be amazed by the rich, comforting flavors that combine to create a dish everyone will love.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, ensuring it suits any palate.
- Visually, the golden crust on top adds an irresistible appeal that will impress your family and guests alike.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – use about 1.5 lbs for the perfect tender base.
For the Stuffing Mix
• Boxed stuffing mix – this provides a quick and easy flavor boost that enhances the dish.
• Cream of chicken soup – low-sodium is best for a healthier option that still adds creaminess.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – ensures the casserole remains moist and flavorful without excess salt.
For the Vegetables
• Small onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth, making your casserole even more satisfying.
• Celery, diced – brings a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softer elements.
For Seasoning
• Butter – a must for sautéing veggies, enhancing richness and flavor.
• Poultry seasoning – infuses the dish with classic herb flavors that complement chicken perfectly.
• Black pepper – a dash gives a subtle hint of spice to elevate the overall taste.
Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences, but this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite!
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
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Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy serving later.
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Prepare the chicken: Season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lay them gently at the bottom of your baking dish. This will serve as a tender base for the casserole.
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Sauté the veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until they become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness!
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Mix the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the cream of chicken soup, low-sodium chicken broth, your sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated and looking delicious.
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Layer the dish: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in your baking dish, ensuring every piece of chicken is covered with that amazing stuffing blend.
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Bake with love: Cover the dish with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and pop it back in for an additional 15 minutes to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
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Rest and serve: Once done, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy evenings! You can season the chicken and layer it in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can mix the stuffing and sauté the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine everything, follow the cooking instructions, and enjoy a meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh! These make-ahead steps ensure that your casserole retains its moistness and flavor while also allowing you to serve a comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with these creative twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the stuffing for a fragrant flavor boost that elevates the dish. A little fresh herb goes a long way in enhancing the overall profile!
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Veggie-Packed: Toss in your favorite veggies, like carrots or peas, to the stuffing mix for added nutrition and color. This not only adds texture but also brightens up every bite!
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Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the stuffing during the last 15 minutes of baking. You’ll achieve a gooey, melty layer that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
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Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture. This adds a fun heat that will awaken your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the cream of chicken soup for a dairy-free alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This ensures everyone can enjoy the casserole without concern!
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Gluten-Free: Choose a gluten-free stuffing mix to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining that delicious flavor. You’ll still get all the comforting vibes from this classic dish.
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Cranberry Surprise: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples into the stuffing for a touch of sweetness. This unexpected addition creates a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.
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Mustard Zing: Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the stuffing mixture for a tangy kick. This small addition can transform the flavor profile and excite your palate!
What to Serve with Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing food that warms both heart and soul.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp freshness provides a vibrant contrast to the richness of the casserole.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they add an indulgent side that soaks up all the delicious juices.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, these bring a bright, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
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Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette add a refreshing balance to the decadent casserole.
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Buttered Corn: Sweet, tender, and comforting, corn rounds out the meal with a touch of nostalgia and joy.
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Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy and warm, they are perfect for mopping up any leftover stuffing, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, its sweet and tart flavors offer a delightful contrast to the savory main dish.
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Chardonnay: This white wine’s crisp notes harmonize beautifully, enhancing the flavors of your meal.
Each pairing elevates your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dining experience for you and your guests.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the casserole’s flavor and moisture while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: The Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Room Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Avoid keeping it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, always ensure your chicken is evenly seasoned before baking to maximize flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the sautéed onions and celery; they should be just translucent to retain some crunch and sweetness.
- When preparing the stuffing mixture, mix it gently to prevent it from becoming too mushy; you want to maintain some texture for a delightful bite.
- Lastly, be sure to let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, which will enhance the overall flavor and make serving easier.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs
What chicken should I use for this casserole?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and juicy base. You can also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, but keep in mind they may take a little longer to cook through.
How long can I store leftover Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in the fridge?
You can keep any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal during the week without any extra fuss!
Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just be sure to label it with the date.
What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
To reheat, first thaw your casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Then, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain the casserole’s moisture and flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be aware that this casserole contains chicken, wheat (from the stuffing mix), and possibly dairy (from the cream of chicken soup). You can find gluten-free stuffing options and use a dairy-free soup alternative to make it more accommodating for dietary needs.
What should I do if my casserole appears dry after baking?
If your casserole seems dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time to keep moisture in. If you find it after baking, you can drizzle a little chicken broth over the top before serving to reintroduce some moisture.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; lay them at the bottom of the baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté diced onion and celery until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Spread stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring every piece is covered.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes for a golden crust.
- Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
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