I absolutely love this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe because it s comfort food at its best – simple, hearty, and bursting with flavor. When I first tried this dish, I was amazed at how the juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the savory stuffing and that creamy topping, making it a complete meal all in one dish. It s exactly the kind of recipe you turn to when you want something fuss-free but incredibly satisfying.
You ll find that this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, especially for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It saves you the hassle of juggling multiple pots and pans since the stuffing bakes right alongside the chicken, soaking up all those delicious juices. If you want a dish that feels like a warm hug and delivers big taste without big effort, this one s definitely worth giving a go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comforting Flavor: Creamy, savory, and full of familiar tastes that feel like home.
- Versatile Meal: Easily customizable with veggies or different stuffing flavors.
- Family Favorite: My family always asks for seconds whenever I make this!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture-there s no need for anything fancy here, just simple staples that pack a punch. When shopping, I recommend picking a good quality stuffing mix since it s the star alongside the chicken.
- Chicken breasts: I prefer using large breasts for even cooking and juicy meat.
- Dried minced onions: Adds a subtle savory depth without extra chopping.
- Garlic powder: For a nice aromatic punch that pairs well with chicken.
- Ground black pepper: Freshly ground if you can-it’s worth the little extra effort.
- Stove top stuffing mix: This is the base for that comforting, fluffy texture in the bake.
- Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist without being too salty.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy magic that binds the whole casserole together.
- Sour cream: Adds a slight tang and richness to the topping layer.
- Butter: Cubed on top-this little touch ensures the stuffing browns beautifully and stays rich.
Variations
I like to mix things up with this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe depending on the season or what s in my fridge. Feel free to make it your own-it s a flexible base that welcomes creativity, and I m always excited to hear how others make it theirs.
- Add vegetables: My personal favorite is stirring in chopped celery or mushrooms into the stuffing for an earthy boost and a bit more nutrition.
- Use different stuffing mix: Sometimes I switch to herb-seasoned or cornbread stuffing for a different flavor profile.
- Lower fat options: Swapping sour cream and cream soup for their light versions works well without sacrificing too much creaminess.
- Spicy twist: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning gives the dish a little heat that my family loves.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and season your chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking-using butter always adds a nice flavor touch here. Lay the chicken breasts evenly in the dish, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, dried minced onions, and ground black pepper. This seasoning is simple but essential-it infuses the chicken with great flavor as it bakes.
Step 2: Prepare the stuffing mix
In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the low sodium chicken broth. Fluff this mixture with a fork until the broth is absorbed and the stuffing feels light and airy. It might seem straightforward but don t skip fluffing-this helps keep the texture perfect, so the stuffing isn t soggy under the cream topping.
Step 3: Make the creamy layer and assemble
Mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Spread this evenly over the chicken breasts in the casserole dish. Then spoon your fluffy stuffing mixture on top and around the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Scatter the cubed butter all over the stuffing-this is what gives that golden, rich finish.
Step 4: Bake until perfectly cooked
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. I always check the chicken with a meat thermometer to make sure it hits 165°F (74°C). This ensures it s cooked through but still juicy. When done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving-this step lets all the flavors meld and makes it easier to portion.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Perfect Juicy Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking-nothing worse than dry chicken in a creamy bake.
- Stuffing Texture: Fluff the stuffing mix thoroughly after adding broth to keep the bake light, not mushy.
- Butter Distribution: Dotting butter evenly over the stuffing helps achieve a golden crust and rich flavor.
- Resting Time: Let the bake rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to lock in moisture and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
I love sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top right before serving-it adds a pop of color and an herbal brightness that cuts nicely through the creaminess. Sometimes I add a little grated Parmesan to the stuffing before baking for an extra savory touch.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Stuffing Bake goes beautifully with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad. For a cozy meal, mashed potatoes on the side round everything out perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I ve served this bake in individual ramekins for a fancy touch, which guests adored. You could also layer it in a decorative casserole dish topped with extra herbs or even sprinkle dried cranberries over the stuffing mix for a festive flair during holidays.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cool leftovers completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days and taste just as comforting when reheated.
Freezing
I’ve frozen the Chicken Stuffing Bake successfully by transferring cooled portions into freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating-it helps keep the texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes to keep the moisture. Microwaving can work too but might make the stuffing a bit denser.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a slightly richer flavor and tend to stay juicier. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly-thighs typically take a bit longer to reach a safe internal temperature (about 165°F or 74°C).
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Is this recipe gluten-free?
The classic stuffing mix usually contains gluten, so this recipe isn t gluten-free as is. However, you can find gluten-free stuffing mix alternatives at the store that work wonderfully in this bake.
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Can I add vegetables directly to the casserole?
Yes! I like to fold in chopped celery, mushrooms, or even green beans into the stuffing before baking. This adds extra texture and nutrition while keeping the dish simple.
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What can I serve with Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe?
Green veggies, like steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts, complement the richness well. A light salad and perhaps mashed potatoes also make excellent sides to balance the meal.
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How can I make this recipe lower in fat?
Try using reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also reduce the amount of butter slightly or substitute with olive oil for a lighter version that still tastes great.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dishes because it s easy, reliable, and full of that homey goodness we all crave, especially on busy nights. I hope you give it a try soon-you might just find it becoming a staple in your own kitchen like it did in mine. Trust me, your family will thank you!
Print
Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and onions, topped with a creamy layer of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, and finished with flavorful stovetop stuffing and butter for a golden, rich crust. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 large chicken breasts (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Stuffing Mix
- 6 ounces stove top stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
Creamy Topping
- 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Other
- 4 tablespoons butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare chicken: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season them on top with garlic powder, dried minced onions, and ground black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Prepare stuffing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with the low sodium chicken broth. Fluff it with a fork until the liquid is absorbed and the mixture is light and airy. Set aside.
- Make creamy layer: In a small bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread this evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Assemble casserole: Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture evenly on top of the creamy soup layer and around the chicken in the dish. Distribute the cubed butter over the stuffing to add richness and help with browning.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) and is fully cooked.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked but remains juicy.
- For a lower fat version, you could use reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat cream of chicken soup.
- Feel free to add veggies like chopped celery or mushrooms to the stuffing for added flavor and nutrition.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and for easier serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 chicken breast with stuffing)
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
