If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and absolutely satisfying, this Chicken Stuffing Casserole is about to become your new go-to comfort dish. Imagine fork-tender chicken tucked beneath a cozy blanket of herby stuffing, all mingling together with creamy sauce and colorful vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that strikes the perfect balance of nostalgia and ease—just the kind of meal I love to whip up when I want to feel both efficient and a little bit pampered. Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why Chicken Stuffing Casserole is always a hit at my table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Chicken Stuffing Casserole plays a starring role, bringing flavor, texture, and comfort to your table. The beauty here is how these simple staples combine into something extra special—proof that you don’t have to get complicated for a fabulous result.
- Stuffing mix: The seasoned base of the whole dish; homemade or store-bought both work perfectly and deliver classic flavor.
- Hot water: Essential for plumping up the stuffing and making sure every bite is tender, not dry.
- Cooked chopped chicken: Use rotisserie, poached, or even leftover chicken; just be sure it’s cut bite-sized for the coziest casserole experience.
- Sour cream: Lends tang and richness that makes the creamy sauce extra luscious and comforting.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy backbone that ties the filling together—don’t skip it!
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Colorful and nutritious, these add tenderness and freshness to every forkful.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F. A good hot oven ensures that your Chicken Stuffing Casserole bakes up golden and bubbly, with the perfect blend of crispy and creamy textures that makes this dish irresistible.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, mix the dry stuffing mix with 1 ¼ cups of hot water. Give it a gentle stir and then set it aside. Letting the stuffing soak for about five minutes ensures every breadcrumb soaks up moisture and flavor, so the topping comes out perfectly soft inside and a little crisped on top.
Step 3: Assemble the Creamy Filling
In a greased 9×13 inch pan (no need for perfection here!), combine your cooked, chopped chicken, creamy sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, and thawed mixed vegetables. Use a big spoon or spatula to mix everything thoroughly—every bite should be packed with all those flavors. This is what makes Chicken Stuffing Casserole both satisfying and perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Layer on the Stuffing
Spoon that moist, fragrant stuffing mixture evenly over the top of your chicken and veggie layer. Don’t compact it—leave it a little fluffy and airy, so you get the contrasting textures when it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled Chicken Stuffing Casserole into the hot oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, golden crust on top and a creamy, steaming-hot center. The aroma is your cue that deliciousness is just minutes away!
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme right before serving—it’s an easy way to amp up brightness and bring a little freshness to the rich flavors of your Chicken Stuffing Casserole. A crack of black pepper on top is never out of place, either!
Side Dishes
While this casserole brings plenty to the table on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or a hunk of warm crusty bread creates a truly well-rounded meal. The lightness of a salad or roasted veggie side balances the cozy heartiness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping your Chicken Stuffing Casserole into individual ramekins for an elevated dinner party presentation, or serve a big rustic portion straight from the pan at a family-style gathering. For a casual lunch, stuff leftovers into a buttered roll or top a baked potato for an extra-special twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cool, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. Chicken Stuffing Casserole stays delicious for up to 4 days—just keep tightly covered to retain flavor and moisture.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Wrap either the whole casserole dish (well covered!) or portioned servings in heavy-duty foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label and date your dish for easy reheating later!
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Chicken Stuffing Casserole in the oven at 350°F until it’s hot all the way through—this keeps the stuffing from getting soggy. For quick lunches, microwave individual servings, covering them with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken in Chicken Stuffing Casserole?
Absolutely! Turkey makes a wonderful substitute and is a genius way to use up holiday leftovers. The flavors work seamlessly, keeping the dish just as comforting and delicious.
Can I make Chicken Stuffing Casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for canned chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms, use a veggie-based stuffing mix, and substitute cream of mushroom soup. You’ll still get a hearty, flavorful casserole the whole family can enjoy.
Does this recipe work with homemade stuffing?
Homemade stuffing works beautifully here. Just make sure you have about 3 to 4 cups and that it’s moistened before layering on top for that signature texture in your Chicken Stuffing Casserole.
What vegetables are best for Chicken Stuffing Casserole?
Frozen mixed vegetables are wonderfully convenient and cook up tender, but feel free to use any variety you love—peas, carrots, corn, green beans, even broccoli florets all taste great in this casserole.
Can I assemble Chicken Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?
You sure can. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, just bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Chicken Stuffing Casserole a try the next time you crave cozy comfort in a dish. It’s simple, filling, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes—plus, it’s practically guaranteed to put smiles around the table. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
PrintChicken Stuffing Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a family dinner. With layers of savory stuffing, tender chicken, creamy sauce, and colorful vegetables, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
Stuffing:
- 6 ounces stuffing mix (or 3 to 4 cups homemade stuffing)
- 1 ¼ cup hot water
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked chopped chicken (diced)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (thawed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a greased 9×13 inch pan, combine cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and mixed vegetables.
- Top with the stuffing mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Mix together hot water and stuffing mix in a medium bowl. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
Mix well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
