The aroma of a bubbling chicken and stuffing casserole wafts through the kitchen, promising comfort in every bite. Imagine tender chicken nestled among savory stuffing, topped with a golden crust that whispers, “Dig in!” The flavors blend harmoniously, making this dish a showstopper for any gathering.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family. The reactions were priceless, with smiles and happy sighs filling the room. Perfect for potlucks or cozy weeknights, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken and stuffing casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
- Its rich flavor profile will leave everyone asking for seconds
- With its appealing layers and inviting aroma, it’s a feast for the eyes and the stomach
- This dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices
I still chuckle when I think of how my kids fought over the last piece of this casserole at dinner last week.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many are eating.
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Stuffing Mix: Choose your favorite flavor; herb-seasoned is a classic choice.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
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Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and depth; don’t skip this part!
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Vegetables (like celery and onion): Fresh veggies add crunch and flavor; sauté them for extra sweetness.
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Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount melts beautifully on top; use sharp cheddar for more flavor.
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Poultry Seasoning: Enhances the chicken’s flavor with aromatic herbs.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking throughout your casserole.
Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté chopped onions and celery until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do.
Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Place them in a greased baking dish as your base layer.
Add the Stuffing Mix: In a bowl, mix together stuffing mix and broth until moist but not soggy. Spread it evenly over the chicken for that comforting texture.
Create the Creamy Layer: In another bowl, combine sour cream with some additional seasoning if desired. Dollop this creamy goodness on top of the stuffing layer.
Top with Cheese and Bake!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over everything. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen as you prepare this delicious chicken and stuffing casserole!
You Must Know
- Chicken and stuffing casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines savory flavors and comforting textures
- The magical aroma fills the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist
- It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to sear before mixing in stuffing and broth. This sequence enhances flavors beautifully while keeping everything moist.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or use different stuffing flavors like cornbread or wild rice. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra burst of nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring a crispy top.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your chicken and stuffing casserole shines, pre-cook your chicken for added flavor
- Avoid overcooking by checking doneness with a meat thermometer at 165°F
- Enhance moisture by using low-sodium broth for balance without compromising taste
Cooking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would vie for seconds and share laughter. It’s those moments that make every bite even tastier.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time during prep.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious veggie option.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free stuffing and broth to create a tasty gluten-free version of chicken and stuffing casserole.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Experience the comforting flavors of this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, where tender chicken meets savory stuffing under a golden, cheesy crust. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, guaranteed to please everyone at the table. With customizable ingredients and a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10 oz) package herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onions and celery in butter until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning; place in a greased baking dish.
- Mix stuffing and broth in a bowl until moist; spread over the chicken.
- Combine sour cream with additional seasoning; dollop on top of stuffing.
- Generously sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
