Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the very definition of cozy comfort food: creamy, savory, and golden-topped, it’s the kind of dinner that feels like a big, warm hug on a chilly evening. Every forkful offers tender bites of chicken, soft vegetables, and the beloved tangy richness of sour cream, all nestled beneath that iconic buttery stuffing topping. In my house, it’s the surefire solution for busy weeknights or when I’m simply craving that nostalgic, home-cooked flavor—plus, it comes together in under an hour with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No-fuss, crowd-pleasing, and brimming with flavor, this is a casserole you’ll want to keep at the top of your dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a short list of familiar ingredients comes together to create something truly magical! Each component in this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole not only adds its own delicious note but also blends beautifully to create the ultimate all-in-one dish—creamy, hearty, and satisfying with pops of colorful vegetables.
- Cooked chicken: Use shredded or cubed chicken for tender protein throughout; rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut here.
- Stuffing mix: The star of the topping! Choose your favorite classic or herbed stuffing for big flavor and that signature casserole crunch.
- Cream of chicken soup: This provides the luscious base and ties everything together with creamy goodness.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and extra richness—don’t skip it!
- Milk: Keeps the casserole moist and smooths out the filling.
- Chicken broth: Enhances savory depth, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle brings gentle aromatic warmth.
- Onion powder: Adds sweet, mellow flavor that balances the whole dish.
- Black pepper: Rounds things out with subtle heat; freshly cracked is best if you have it.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (optional): For a pop of color and extra nutrition; feel free to skip if you prefer the classic version.
- Butter (melted): Drizzled on top of the stuffing, this makes the topping irresistible and beautifully golden.
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating that warm, welcoming environment for your casserole to get perfectly bubbly. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and clean-up stays a breeze. Taking this little step up front always pays off when you’re serving later!
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. You want this mixture nice and smooth—it’s the secret to the luscious, crave-worthy center that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Vegetables
Gently stir in your cooked chicken, making sure all those juicy bites are coated. This is the time to toss in frozen mixed vegetables if you want a pop of color and heartiness. The filling should be well mixed but don’t overdo it; just enough so everything’s evenly dispersed.
Step 4: Layer the Filling
Pour the chicken and veggie mixture into your greased baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. The filling should look creamy and inviting, with chicken and veggies peeking through—already tempting, even before baking!
Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing
Make the stuffing according to the instructions on the box, usually involving a quick soak in hot water and a fluff with a fork. Spoon the prepared stuffing right over the chicken mixture, spreading it gently so you have a thick, even layer—this is the part everyone will fight over!
Step 6: Top with Butter and Bake
Drizzle the melted butter all over the stuffing. This magic touch ensures a beautifully golden, crisp top that’s practically impossible not to pick at. Cover the casserole with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes to let everything meld and heat through.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil (watch out for the steam!) and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. The top should be golden and the casserole gently bubbling around the edges—trust your senses! Let it cool for a few minutes before you dive in for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Garnishes
After baking, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme over your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for a vibrant pop of green—it looks irresistible and adds a nice note of freshness. For added crunch and flavor, consider showering with French fried onions during the last five minutes in the oven.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad or steamed green beans pair beautifully with the creamy richness of Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, helping to balance out the flavors. If you want something extra hearty, a hunk of warm crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes never hurt anyone!
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for adorable, single-serve portions (perfect for dinner parties or picky eaters). Or, use a deep pie dish for more visual appeal and a sliceable presentation. You can even experiment with topping the casserole with shredded cheese for a gooey finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Chicken and Stuffing Casserole cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just long enough for those flavors to develop even more. The stuffing may soften a little, but the taste stays wonderful.
Freezing
This casserole freezes like a champ! For best results, wrap the cooled (or even unbaked) casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until piping hot. For an extra-crispy topping, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Individual portions can be microwaved, but the oven is best for maintaining that just-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while the oven preheats, and then bake as directed. Perfect for prepping before a busy day or holiday!
What’s the best chicken to use?
Both shredded and cubed cooked chicken work beautifully, but I find rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier and more flavorful. Leftover grilled or baked chicken is also great—just make sure it’s not too strongly seasoned so the other flavors can shine.
Can I use a different soup instead of cream of chicken?
Yes! Cream of mushroom or celery soup works just as well, giving you a slightly different flavor profile. It’s a fun way to add variety to your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole and use what you have on hand.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Without a doubt! The creamy filling, tender chicken, and buttery stuffing are hits with kids and grown-ups alike. If you have picky eaters, leave out the vegetables or swap in their favorites. Many families find this becomes a requested dinner staple!
How can I add extra flavor to the stuffing topping?
Mix in a handful of shredded cheese, a sprinkle of dried herbs, or even some crispy cooked bacon into the stuffing before topping the casserole. These tiny tweaks can really take your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to new levels of deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for a feel-good, fuss-free dinner that delivers on flavor and heartiness, Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Whether you make it as written or put your own spin on the veggies or toppings, you’re sure to have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a comfort food classic worth returning to again and again!
Print
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, flavorful stuffing, and mixed vegetables for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Stuffing:
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add cooked chicken and mixed vegetables, if desired. Spread in baking dish.
- Prepare Stuffing: Prepare stuffing mix according to package instructions. Spoon over chicken mixture. Drizzle melted butter on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- Try cream of mushroom or celery soup for variation.
- For added crunch, top with French fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
