There’s something so comforting about a dish that feels like a warm hug, and this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe does just that. It’s cozy, creamy, and topped with that crispy stuffing that instantly makes it feel like an instant family favorite.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I always turn to this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe when I want something that comes together quickly but packs that homemade comfort food punch. It’s the perfect balance of creamy chicken and crisp topping, and honestly, the whole family asks for seconds every time.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, veggies, and starch all in one casserole dish saving you time and cleanup.
- Kid-Friendly Flavor: Mild but delicious flavors that appeal to picky eaters and grown-up palates alike.
- Comforting and Creamy: A luscious, creamy filling with a buttery stuffed crust that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe plays a role in creating that perfect texture and flavor mix we all crave in comfort food. Here’s a little insight to help you when shopping and prepping.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Adds moisture and flavor — I prefer chicken broth for richer taste but veggie broth works too if you’re keeping it lighter.
- Unsalted Butter: Gives the stuffing topping a buttery crispness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Stove-Top Stuffing Mix: The star of the crunchy topping and a time-saver that adds great seasoning effortlessly.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates that creamy base, binding everything together for a luscious bite.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the casserole extra moist and flavorful.
- Cooked and Shredded Chicken: I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken to speed things up and add extra flavor.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh bite — the frozen mix is a convenient way to ensure you get a variety of veggies.
Make It Your Way
I love how forgiving this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is when it comes to making it your own. Over time, I’ve tried swapping in different veggies and even used homemade stuffing instead of the box mix — both turns out great!
- Vegetable Variety: Sometimes I use fresh broccoli or green beans instead of frozen mixed veggies — just steam them lightly so they’re not mushy after baking.
- Protein Swaps: Leftover turkey works beautifully here, especially after holiday meals.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can substitute sour cream with plain coconut yogurt and use dairy-free cream soup alternatives to suit dietary needs.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle shredded cheese or chopped nuts on top before baking for a twist on texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Stuffing Topping
First, I heat the broth and butter together until the butter melts smoothly—this step really helps the stuffing absorb flavor and crisp up nicely in the oven. Stir in the stuffing mix, cover it, and let it sit while I prepare everything else. This little patience moment makes a huge difference in texture!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, I whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth — this combo is what makes the casserole deliciously creamy. Then, I fold in shredded chicken and frozen veggies, making sure everything’s evenly coated. A gentle hand here keeps the chicken moist and the veggies from getting mushy.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
I transfer the chicken mixture into my sprayed casserole dish, spreading it flat so every bite gets some goodness. Then, I spoon the prepared stuffing evenly over the top—it creates this golden, buttery crust as it bakes that’s simply irresistible. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and nicely browned on top.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
After baking, I let it rest for 5 minutes or so — I know it’s hard, but it helps everything set and cool just enough for perfect serving. Then, scoop it out, grab a fork, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Top Tip
From my kitchen experiments, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this casserole absolutely foolproof and extra tasty. These little tips have saved me from dry chicken or muddy veggies more than once!
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken: It’s already cooked and juicy, making prep easier and the casserole tastier.
- Don’t overcook your veggies: If you use fresh instead of frozen, lightly steam or sauté them first so they remain crisp after baking.
- Butter your baking dish well: This prevents sticking and gives the casserole a lovely golden edge.
- Let it rest before serving: This helps the casserole firm up so it slices neatly and holds together.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top—it adds a pop of color and a subtle fresh bite that balances out the richness. A few grinds of black pepper right before serving also brightens the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some simple roasted carrots. Sometimes, I’ll add garlic bread on the side for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday dinners, I’ve baked this in individual ramekins for each guest — everyone loves that personal touch! You can also top with shredded cheese or bacon bits before baking to surprise your guests with extra flavors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers covered tightly with foil or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating gently in the oven keeps the topping crispy and the filling creamy — microwaving can make it a bit soggy, so I avoid that if I can.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well—after assembling but before baking, I cover the casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, I bake it straight from frozen, just adding about 15-20 minutes extra to the cooking time.
Reheating
For reheating, I recommend warming leftovers in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to keep the stuffing crispy and the chicken moist. If using a microwave, cover loosely and add a splash of broth or water to avoid dryness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Homemade fresh bread stuffing works wonderfully here. Just be sure to sauté your herbs and onions beforehand and keep the stuffing slightly moist so it crisps nicely on top during baking.
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can easily make a quick homemade version by combining a simple roux (butter and flour), chicken broth, and a little milk or cream. Adding some seasoning like garlic powder and onion powder will help mimic the flavor.
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to make sure it’s heated through.
To keep the stuffing topping crispy, avoid covering the casserole with foil immediately after baking. Instead, let it cool uncovered for a few minutes. If you need to store leftovers, reheat them in the oven rather than microwave for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe feels like a little piece of home every time I make it. It’s straightforward but never boring, with cozy flavors that bring everyone to the table smiling. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—it’s one of those recipes I’ll always return to when I want food that just feels right.
Print
Easy 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
Description
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy sour cream and chicken soup base, mixed vegetables, and a buttery stuffing topping baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for an easy dinner that brings warmth and delicious flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Stuffing Mix
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 6 ounces stove-top stuffing mix
Casserole Mix
- 2 (10.75 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth and unsalted butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and stir in the stuffing mix. Cover and set aside to let the stuffing absorb the liquid.
- Mix Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with the sour cream and mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables into the soup mixture until evenly distributed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Top with Stuffing: Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture to cover it completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, hearty casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option.
- Using cooked rotisserie chicken can save time and add flavor.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as diced carrots or peas for added nutrition.
- If you want a crispier topping, bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Make sure to use stove-top stuffing mix for the best texture; prepared stuffing may become soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
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