Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting dish that's easy to make and sure to please the whole family? This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe is the answer! Packed with savory chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy base, this casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers amazing results. So, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making this cozy, delicious meal!

What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a classic comfort dish that combines tender, cooked chicken with a flavorful stuffing mix and a creamy sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect recipe for using up leftover chicken or even turkey, making it a go-to dish after holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas. The layers of savory stuffing and juicy chicken topped with a crispy crust make this casserole a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite veggies and seasonings.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting dish. These ingredients are simple and easy to find at any grocery store, or you may already have most of them in your pantry.

Main Ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs – 2 cups of cooked, shredded or cubed chicken (rotisserie chicken works great).
2. Stuffing Mix – 1 box (6 oz) of your favorite stuffing mix (savory herb or cornbread stuffing works well).
3. Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz) for a rich, creamy base.
4. Sour Cream – ½ cup for added creaminess and tang.
5. Chicken Broth – 1 cup to moisten the stuffing mix.
6. Onion – 1 small onion, diced for a little bite and extra flavor.
7. Celery – 2 stalks, chopped for crunch.
8. Butter – ¼ cup (half a stick), melted, to add richness to the stuffing mix.
9. Salt & Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the chicken and stuffing layers.
10. Optional: Frozen Veggies – 1 cup of frozen peas, carrots, or green beans to add some veggies to the dish.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Topping

For the topping, you’ll need just a couple more ingredients to give your casserole that perfect golden, crispy finish.

1. Grated Cheese – ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy, bubbly top (optional).
2. Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a fresh garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen or personal preferences. Here are some common substitutions and variations you might want to try:

1. Protein Variations: You can substitute the chicken with leftover turkey, ham, or even ground beef. For a vegetarian option, use cooked lentils or chickpeas in place of the chicken.
2. Stuffing Options: If you don't have a boxed stuffing mix, you can make your own by using day-old bread, cubed and tossed with herbs and melted butter. Cornbread stuffing adds a sweeter touch to the dish.
3. Creamy Base Alternatives: If you prefer not to use canned soup, try making a homemade cream sauce by mixing 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of flour, then whisk in 1 cup of milk and cook until thickened.
4. Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms. Frozen mixed vegetables are an easy addition, too.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole on the table in no time.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives the oven enough time to reach the right temperature while you assemble the casserole.
2. Cook the Chicken: If you're not using pre-cooked chicken, cook your chicken breasts or thighs. You can either poach them in water or bake them in the oven until fully cooked. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Stuffing Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of chicken broth and melted butter. Stir until the stuffing is moistened and set aside to absorb the liquid.
4. Sauté the Veggies: In a small skillet, sauté the diced onion and chopped celery in a little bit of butter or oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This will add extra flavor to the casserole.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and sautéed vegetables. Mix well until smooth.
6. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken, making sure it covers it evenly. Then, spread the prepared stuffing mix on top.
7. Add Cheese (Optional): If you're adding cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the stuffing.
8. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken, chop the vegetables, and measure out the stuffing mix, soup, and broth.
2. Layer the Casserole: Begin by layering the cooked chicken at the bottom of your baking dish. This ensures that each bite has plenty of protein and pairs well with the creamy sauce.
3. Make the Stuffing Mixture: Toss the stuffing with melted butter and chicken broth to ensure it stays moist and flavorful during baking.
4. Spread the Creamy Sauce: Combine your cream of chicken soup and sour cream, then pour it evenly over the chicken layer.
5. Top with Stuffing: Finally, spread the stuffing mixture over the top, ensuring an even layer that will become golden and crispy in the oven.
6. Bake Until Perfection: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes at 350°F, or until the casserole is bubbling and the stuffing is golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Dry Chicken: Avoid using overcooked, dry chicken by ensuring it’s just cooked through before adding it to the casserole. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great way to keep the chicken moist and tender.
2. Soggy Stuffing: To avoid soggy stuffing, don’t oversaturate the mix with too much broth. Follow the instructions on the stuffing box or use just enough broth to moisten the crumbs.
3. Undercooking the Casserole: Ensure the casserole bakes long enough for the layers to meld together and the top to become golden brown. If needed, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a hearty, home-style dish that doesn’t need much in terms of fancy presentation. However, with a few simple touches, you can make it look just as good as it tastes.

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
2. Serve with Simple Sides: Pair this casserole with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a balanced meal.
3. Slice and Serve Neatly: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the layers to set. This will make it easier to slice and serve neatly.

How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Serve your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole warm, straight from the oven. This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes, from mashed potatoes to steamed green beans. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

For a more polished presentation, consider serving individual portions of the casserole in small, oven-safe ramekins. This is a great idea if you’re hosting a dinner party and want to elevate the dish. Alternatively, you can use a decorative baking dish to add some flair to your table.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or holiday cooking.
• Freeze for Later: You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Crispier Topping: For an extra crispy stuffing topping, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking or broil it for a minute or two.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes, leftover turkey works great in this casserole, especially after holiday meals like Thanksgiving.

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to freeze it before baking and thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Feel free to add any veggies you like. Peas, carrots, broccoli, or green beans are great additions to this casserole.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or meal prep. With its tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and creamy sauce, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using up holiday leftovers, this casserole is as versatile as it is tasty. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of this classic comfort food!

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