If you’re on the hunt for an easy, satisfying dinner that brings a bundle of comfort to the table, look no further than this Chicken Stuffing Bake. It’s got everything you crave in a single dish: tender shredded chicken, a creamy, flavorful sauce, and a golden, buttery layer of stuffing on top. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or looking to cozy up with some nostalgic comfort food, the Chicken Stuffing Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that goes from prep to plate in under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this Chicken Stuffing Bake is wonderfully straightforward, but don’t let its simplicity fool you—each component plays a big role in creating rich layers of flavor and a homestyle appeal. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love having them in the mix:
- Cooked and shredded chicken: The foundation of the dish—using leftover rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze and ensures juicy, flavorful meat in every bite.
- Stuffing mix (6-ounce box): A box of your favorite stuffing gives the bake its signature savory topping; choose traditional or herb for a classic feel.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces): This creamy soup binds everything together and infuses the entire dish with cozy flavor.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tang and richness to the filling, making it extra luxurious.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Keeps the filling moist and punchy with savory chicken notes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): Melts into a luscious, golden layer that brings a hint of sharpness—feel free to include or skip!
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Perks up the flavor profile with a gentle kick of garlicky warmth.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just enough spice to balance all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Butter, melted (2 tablespoons): For drizzling over the stuffing and lending a rich, golden finish.
- Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons): A garnish that adds fresh color and a pretty flourish right before serving.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake
Step 1: Heat Up and Prepare
Start by firing up your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready by the time you assemble everything. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray; this not only keeps cleanup easy but also helps crisp up the bottom layer.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. You want this mixture to be smooth and well combined—think creamy comfort in the making! Once it’s all blended, fold in the shredded chicken so every piece is nicely coated in that flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Layer and Spread
Take the creamy chicken mixture and spread it evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out with a spatula so every corner gets a fair share of that goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing
While the filling waits, prepare your stuffing mix in a separate bowl according to the package directions. Once it’s done, fluff it up gently with a fork—this keeps it light and ensures a crispier baked topping.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Evenly spread the fluffed stuffing right over the creamy chicken layer. If you’re in the mood for something extra, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Finish with a lovely drizzle of melted butter to help everything brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your dish onto the center rack and bake, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges—a clear sign that cozy, comfort-food magic has happened. Let it sit for five minutes to set before digging in.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake
Garnishes
For a beautiful pop of color and a dash of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over your Chicken Stuffing Bake right before you serve. You can also try a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper or even an extra pinch of grated parmesan for a special touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Stuffing Bake with crisp green beans, a simple garden salad, or classic roasted veggies. The creamy, savory flavors of the bake are best balanced by something light and fresh on the side, and crusty bread is always welcome for mopping up any saucy bits.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try making individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes—everyone gets their own bubbling Chicken Stuffing Bake! Or add a layer of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or thawed frozen peas within the chicken layer for a colorful twist that sneaks in extra veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Chicken Stuffing Bake into an airtight container or cover the cooled baking dish with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a handy option for packed lunches or easy weekend dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, this bake freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled, whole bake tightly in foil and plastic wrap (or portion into freezer-safe containers). It will keep for up to three months—just be sure to label it so you remember which cozy meal awaits you!
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover the bake with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). For smaller portions, a quick zap in the microwave works too—just be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the stuffing from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken in this bake?
Absolutely! Turkey is a fantastic substitute and turns this into a great dish for using up holiday leftovers. Just shred or chop cooked turkey and use it in place of the chicken.
Is there a way to lighten up Chicken Stuffing Bake?
Yes! You can use reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat soup, and skip the cheese—or try a lighter cheese. Even with these changes, you’ll still get creamy, delicious results.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Feel free to stir in thawed frozen peas, diced carrots, green beans, or chopped spinach right into the chicken mixture. They’ll add color, nutrition, and extra texture.
Do I have to bake it in a 9×13-inch pan?
No, you can use two smaller pans or ramekins for individual servings if you like—just keep an eye on the bake time, as it may cook a bit faster in smaller dishes.
What stuffing mix should I use for the best results?
Choose your favorite boxed stuffing mix—herb, savory, or even cornbread all work well. Go with whatever flavor resonates with your family’s taste or what’s in your pantry!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so heartwarming about sharing a homemade Chicken Stuffing Bake with the people you love. I hope you give this recipe a try the next time you need a little comfort or a no-fuss dinner that’s sure to make everyone smile. Let this easy, delicious bake become your new weeknight favorite!
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Chicken Stuffing Bake 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 Stuffing Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole that combines tender shredded chicken with creamy sauce, savory stuffing, and melted cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken (about 2 large breasts)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stuffing Layer:
- 1 (6-ounce) box stuffing mix
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make Chicken Mixture: In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add shredded chicken.
- Layer: Spread chicken mixture in the dish.
- Prepare Stuffing: Prepare stuffing mix per package directions, fluff with a fork, and spread over chicken.
- Bake: Drizzle melted butter, add optional cheese, and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let sit for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery.
- Add frozen peas or green beans for extra veggies.
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