Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that satisfies the entire family? This Chicken & Stuffing Bake recipe might be just what you need! It’s the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together. Follow along, and discover how you can recreate this crowd-pleasing dish right at home. Stick around for tips on substitutions, serving suggestions, and answers to frequently asked questions about making the perfect Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Let's get started!

---

What is Chicken & Stuffing Bake?

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a casserole-style dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken breasts or thighs with a savory stuffing made from bread cubes or packaged stuffing mix. The dish is often layered with a creamy sauce made from condensed soup, sour cream, or broth, adding a delightful richness. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a cozy family dinner, and the best part is—it’s so easy to customize. You can mix in vegetables, switch up the stuffing, or add different herbs and spices to suit your preferences.

---

Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

Here’s a basic rundown of the ingredients you’ll need for a classic Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  This will be the base of the dish, providing protein and structure.
• 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix
  A boxed stuffing mix makes this recipe incredibly easy, and you can use either chicken-flavored or herb-seasoned varieties depending on your taste.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
  This is the creamy component of the bake, giving the dish a rich, velvety texture.
• ½ cup sour cream
  Sour cream adds tang and creaminess, balancing the flavors and preventing the bake from becoming too heavy.
• 1½ cups chicken broth
  This keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful, helping to bind everything together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
  Complements the garlic and gives the bake an extra flavor boost.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
  Herbs like thyme or rosemary add an earthy aroma and enhance the overall taste.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the stuffing mixture.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  Helps to add richness to the stuffing mixture.
• 1 cup frozen or fresh vegetables (optional)
  You can mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition and texture.

---

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Chicken & Stuffing Bake is its versatility. If you don't have certain ingredients on hand or want to switch things up, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: For a more flavorful and juicy version, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are less likely to dry out during baking.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, along with vegetable broth, for a vegetarian stuffing bake.
• Different Cream Soups: If you're not a fan of cream of chicken soup, feel free to substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Each brings its own unique flavor profile.
• Add Cheese: Want to make your bake extra indulgent? Add a layer of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Whole Wheat Stuffing: For a healthier twist, you can opt for whole wheat stuffing or make your own stuffing mix with whole grain bread.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and a gluten-free cream soup if you’re catering to gluten sensitivities.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chicken & Stuffing Bake:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, melted butter, and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. Set aside to let the bread absorb the liquid.
3. Season the chicken: Season your chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary. Make sure both sides are coated well.
4. Layer the dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If you're adding vegetables, layer them around the chicken.
5. Mix the creamy topping: In a separate bowl, mix the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream until well combined.
6. Assemble the bake: Spread the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Then, spoon the prepared stuffing mixture on top of the chicken and sauce, covering everything completely.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the stuffing to crisp up.
8. Check for doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing from the oven.
9. Rest and serve: Let the Chicken & Stuffing Bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to slice and serve.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Dry Chicken: Always make sure to season your chicken well and use enough sauce to keep the bake moist. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can dry out easily, so consider using thighs if you're worried about dryness.
• Skipping the Foil: The first part of baking should be done covered to prevent the stuffing from burning before the chicken is fully cooked. Only remove the foil in the last 15 minutes to achieve that crispy topping.
• Not Checking the Internal Temperature: To avoid undercooking the chicken, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Overloading with Vegetables: While adding veggies is great, be cautious not to add too many, or they can release excess moisture and make the bake soggy.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Chicken & Stuffing Bake is golden, bubbly, and fragrant, you’ll want to present it in the best way possible. Here’s how to make your dish look and taste amazing:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling some fresh parsley, thyme, or chives on top just before serving adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the bake, cutting through the creamy texture.
• Offer Cranberry Sauce: For a festive touch, serve a spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side. Its tartness complements the savory stuffing and chicken beautifully.

---

How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

You can serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake as a main course with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes adds both color and nutrition to the plate.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an ultra-comforting meal, serve with buttery mashed potatoes on the side. The gravy-like sauce from the bake pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls or biscuits are a great option for sopping up the creamy sauce from the dish.

---

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Individual Servings: Serve the bake in small, individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Family-Style: If you're going for a cozy, casual vibe, serve the bake family-style straight from the baking dish. Place it in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Holiday-Themed Plating: For holiday dinners, arrange the bake on a platter with sprigs of fresh herbs and some cranberries for festive color.

---

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge.
• Freezing Instructions: Chicken & Stuffing Bake freezes well. Simply assemble the dish, wrap it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy stuffing texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover cooked chicken, shred it and mix it into the stuffing or layer it on the bottom of the dish. Since the chicken is already cooked, you can reduce the baking time to 25–30 minutes.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise if you're out of sour cream. Both options will still give you that creamy texture.

How do I prevent the stuffing from becoming too soggy?
Make sure the stuffing mixture is moist but not soaked with broth. If you find it too wet, add a few extra dry bread cubes or reduce the liquid slightly.

---

Conclusion

Chicken & Stuffing Bake is the perfect comfort food for any occasion—whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a holiday meal. Its simple yet flavorful combination of chicken, stuffing, and creamy sauce is sure to please everyone at the table. With easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit your needs, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious bake in no time. Try it today and enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal that brings everyone together!

Print