Name: Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491817H21M21S
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded; 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix; 1 1/2 cups hot chicken broth; 2 tbsp melted butter

Are you looking for a hearty yet simple dinner option that the whole family will adore? Look no further than this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe! The combination of tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and savory stuffing creates a satisfying main dish that comes together effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe offers both comfort and convenience, making it a go-to option for meal planning and last-minute dinners.

Not only is it delicious, but it also allows for plenty of customization. You can easily add your family’s favorite vegetables or even switch up the seasonings to enhance the flavors. With a cooking time of just 30-35 minutes, this dish brings ease to your kitchen without sacrificing flavor or quality. Featuring a golden, crispy topping and creamy chicken filling, each bite is sure to be a hit. So, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the warmth of a family meal with this delightful casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake

Quick and Easy: This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights.
Comfort Food: With its creamy filling and warm stuffing, this bake delivers ultimate coziness.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your family’s taste preferences by adding veggies or changing proteins.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required as everything comes together in one casserole dish.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love it! With familiar flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delightful casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace properly. Start by ensuring that all your ingredients are readily available and measured out to streamline the cooking process. To achieve a perfect bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This step guarantees easy release and cleanup after baking.

Next, gather the necessary tools to assist in preparing the recipe. You’ll need mixing bowls for combining the stuffing and chicken filling, as well as a spatula to spread the fillings evenly in the baking dish. Having a measuring cup and spoons on hand will also help ensure accurate ingredient measurements. Lastly, don’t forget to have a serving spoon ready for when the casserole comes out of the oven. With everything in place, you’re all set to create a delicious Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
1 1/2 cups hot chicken broth
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This initial step makes the cooking process smoother and ensures a perfect crust.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour the stuffing mix and add the hot chicken broth. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes, giving it time to absorb the liquid. This process will create the flavorful base that will complement the chicken filling beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In another mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended and creamy. Incorporate the cooked chicken and optional peas and carrots, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated with the creamy mixture. This step will enhance the overall flavor profile of the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken filling evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring a good layer across the bottom. Once the chicken layer is in place, spoon the prepared stuffing mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover the chicken evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing layer, which not only adds flavor but also contributes to achieving a golden, crispy top. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the stuffing is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Allow the casserole to rest for about five minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Variations

Protein: Substitute cooked chicken with shredded turkey for a post-holiday meal or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add in other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or Italian seasoning, to give a unique twist to your dish.

Cooking Notes

For added flavor, marinate chicken in your favorite herbs before cooking it.
Utilize leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick assembly to save time.
If the stuffing becomes too dry, you can adjust the broth amount accordingly.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Complement with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips

Feel free to prepare the chicken filling in advance to save time on busy days.
Cover with foil during the first half of baking to prevent over-browning, then remove for the last few minutes.
Adjust seasonings based on your preferences, and encourage family members to add herbs to their own serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 750mg

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken for this recipe?

Using uncooked chicken is not advisable as it won’t cook through within the baking time. Always pre-cook or use rotisserie chicken for best results.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it for an extra 10-15 minutes if it’s cold when you place it in the oven.

What can I serve with this Chicken Stuffing Bake?

A light salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides that complement this hearty bake.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake is a heartwarming dish that not only delivers on flavor but also on convenience and versatility. It’s perfect for busy families and a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed on a casual weeknight or served at a family gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations and make it your own! We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experiences, and let us know how your version turned out in the comments below.