Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce for a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish is a great option when you’re looking for something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The stuffing adds a flavorful, crispy topping, while the creamy chicken base makes every bite irresistible.

Let’s get started and learn how to make this delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe!

What Is Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a one-dish casserole that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy sauce and a layer of savory stuffing on top. The stuffing gets baked to golden, crispy perfection, while the chicken stays moist and flavorful beneath. The dish can be easily customized with vegetables, seasonings, or cheese, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and comforting Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

For the Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom or celery soup)
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or water, to moisten the stuffing)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted, optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added cheesiness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables
• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
• ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (for extra flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some substitution ideas and variations you can try:

• Chicken: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Stuffing: Any brand of stuffing mix will work, and you can choose different flavors like herb, cornbread, or chicken. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing.
• Soup: While cream of chicken soup is a classic choice, you can swap it for cream of mushroom or cream of celery. You can also make your own homemade version for a healthier option.
• Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you want to lighten up the dish.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add in any veggies you like, such as peas, carrots, broccoli, or green beans, for a more complete meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
• Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing

• In a separate bowl, mix the stuffing with chicken broth (or water) to moisten it. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
• If you're adding any vegetables (like peas or carrots), stir them into the stuffing mixture at this point.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the creamy chicken.
• If you're adding shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the stuffing for an extra cheesy layer.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken & Stuffing

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy on top, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

• Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

• Dry Chicken: To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then remove it from the oven.
• Soggy Stuffing: If you like your stuffing extra crispy, don’t over-saturate it with liquid. Adding too much chicken broth or water can result in a soggy topping. Aim for a moist, but not wet, stuffing mixture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Be sure to season both the chicken and the creamy sauce well. The chicken needs seasoning to bring out its flavor, even though it's topped with sauce and stuffing.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is hearty enough to serve on its own, but here are a few ideas on how to serve and present it for a complete meal.

How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Portion Sizes: Serve each person one chicken breast, or slice the chicken for smaller portions. Be sure to scoop some of the creamy sauce and stuffing with each serving.
• Side Dishes: Pair the casserole with simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. Steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or corn on the cob are also great options.
• Toppings: Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or extra shredded cheese for added richness. You can also drizzle a little gravy over the chicken for a homestyle feel.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table for a casual, family-style meal. Let everyone help themselves to a scoop of chicken, stuffing, and sauce.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal presentation, plate each serving of chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and garnish with parsley or thyme.

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you make the best Chicken & Stuffing Bake every time:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, take it out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.
• Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes well! After assembling (but before baking), wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes! If you have cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken), simply shred or chop it and layer it in the baking dish. Reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free stuffing mix and check that your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free.

Q: What can I use instead of sour cream?
A: You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream to lighten up the dish. You can also use cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.

Q: How do I make this dish healthier?
A: To make a lighter version of this dish, use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt, and use a smaller amount of stuffing mix. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrition.

Q: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffing before baking adds extra richness and flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy stuffing makes it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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