This Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake is a warm and cozy dish! It’s packed with tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness that makes every bite comforting.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s great for busy nights. Plus, who can resist that delightful mix of flavors? I often serve it with a side of veggies for a complete meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken you have—rotisserie, leftover, or even turkey! I find rotisserie chicken super convenient and full of flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This gives creaminess to the dish. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use homemade cream soup or a cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and tanginess. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan sour cream or unsweetened plain yogurt.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen or fresh works. Use your favorites! Broccoli or green beans can be a delightful substitute.
Stuffing Mix: The standard choice, but feel free to experiment! Cornbread stuffing can add a unique flavor. Just make sure it’s seasoned!
Butter: For a lower-fat version, melted olive oil or margarine can replace butter without losing too much flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Has the Right Consistency?
The key to a perfect casserole is maintaining a good balance of moisture. While mixing your ingredients, the chicken broth and cream soups help create a nice base, but keep an eye on the wetness.
- Start with less chicken broth, maybe half a cup, and add more if the mixture seems dry.
- Make sure the stuffing mix is evenly moistened. You want it fluffy, not soggy, so mix well where all pieces are coated.
- After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier!
Easy Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For The Stuffing Topping:
- 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake. All together, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you put in your casserole!
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth. If you’d like, sprinkle in the garlic powder and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish so every bite gets tasty chicken goodness!
4. Make the Stuffing Topping:
In another bowl, mix the stuffing mix with the melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are coated with butter. This will give your topping a delicious, buttery flavor!
5. Assemble and Bake:
Evenly spread the stuffing mix over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the stuffing is golden brown on top.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pretty touch. Enjoy your comforting Chicken and Stuffing Casserole!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor. Just shred or chop the chicken and follow the recipe as is. No need to cook it further since it’s already fully cooked!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade ranch dressing or a mixture of 1 cup milk with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for a creamy texture. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance without baking it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Just take it out about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, then bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or bake it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist!
