Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe for Heartwarming Meals

Comfort food reaches new heights with this delectable chicken & stuffing bake recipe that promises to warm your soul.

Tender chicken nestles perfectly amid layers of savory stuffing, creating a mouthwatering meal that speaks to classic home cooking.

The aroma of herbs and perfectly seasoned ingredients will draw everyone to the table with anticipation.

Each forkful blends rich, comforting flavors that remind you of cherished family dinners.

Weeknight meals rarely get this delicious and satisfying.

Simple ingredients transform into a hearty dish that feels like a culinary hug.

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Flavor Notes

  • Conquer Comfort Food: A classic one-pan meal that delivers hearty, warm flavors perfect for satisfying hungry families and creating instant dinner happiness.
  • Simplify Cooking Chaos: Super easy recipe with minimal prep work and straightforward ingredients that even beginner cooks can master without stress or complicated techniques.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Requires less than an hour from start to finish, making it an ideal solution for busy households needing delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Customize with Ease: Versatile dish that allows simple substitutions like using turkey instead of chicken or adding extra herbs to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients For Chicken Stuffing Bake Success

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender meat that serves as the primary protein for this comforting casserole dish.
Stuffing Base:
  • Stuffing Mix, Chicken Broth: A classic dry mix that becomes moist and flavorful when combined with broth, creating a delicious topping for the chicken.
Creamy Sauce Components:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream or Mayonnaise, Milk: These ingredients blend together to create a rich, smooth sauce that adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.
Seasoning and Finishing Touches:
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Melted Butter: Provides extra crispiness and golden color to the stuffing topping.
  • Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that adds a touch of fresh color and light herb flavor.

Steps To Cozy Chicken Stuffing Bake

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Heat your oven to a toasty 375°F.

This temperature ensures your dish gets perfectly golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare Stuffing Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Stuffing mix
  • Chicken broth

Stir until the stuffing becomes moist and set aside.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce

Whisk together in another bowl:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Milk

Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Arrange Chicken Foundation

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place chicken breasts inside.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Layer Creamy Goodness

Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken, creating a luxurious blanket of flavor.

Step 6: Crown With Stuffing

Spread the prepared stuffing across the top of the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 7: Add Golden Touch

Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing to create an irresistibly crispy top layer.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Cook in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing should turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 9: Rest And Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes.

Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips For Classic Stuffing Bake

  • Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream for a protein-packed, lower-fat version of the dish.
  • Mix in dried cranberries or chopped herbs like thyme and rosemary to elevate the stuffing's flavor profile.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking, keeping it juicy and tender.
  • Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.
  • Replace regular stuffing mix with gluten-free stuffing cubes and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup for dietary needs.

Fun Ways To Change Chicken Stuffing Bake

  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace traditional stuffing mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs or quinoa. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Sodium Solution: Select reduced-sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Skip added salt and use herb seasoning for flavor enhancement.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken breasts with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and mushroom-based cream soup for rich texture.
  • Mediterranean Makeover: Incorporate oregano, basil, and rosemary into the soup mixture. Replace butter with olive oil and add crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired version.

Plating Chicken Stuffing Bake For Guests

  • Comfort Plate Partner: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Family-Style Side Kick: Pair with roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad for added nutrition and color.
  • Weekend Dinner Enhancer: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of freshness and elegant presentation that makes the dish feel extra special.
  • Leftover Magic Trick: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container and enjoy as a quick lunch the next day, reheated gently to maintain moisture and flavor.

Keeping Chicken Bake Fresh And Moist

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and food safety.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality or taste.
  • Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even whole chicken pieces. Just ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F.

  • Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply place it in the preheated oven and add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free stuffing mix and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Check all ingredient labels carefully to ensure they meet gluten-free requirements.

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Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe


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4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comfort meets culinary magic in this hearty Chicken & Stuffing Bake, blending savory poultry with rich, herbed bread mixture. Creamy textures and golden-brown edges promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 pounds)

Stuffing and Base:

  • 1 box (6 ounces) seasoned stuffing mix
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Enhancers:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Ignite the oven to a toasty 375°F, preparing a welcoming environment for the culinary ensemble.
  2. Hydrate the stuffing mixture with rich chicken broth, ensuring each crumb absorbs the savory liquid, then allow it to rest and develop flavor.
  3. Craft a velvety sauce by whisking cream of chicken soup, creamy dairy additions, and milk until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
  4. Arrange chicken breasts in a generously greased rectangular baking vessel, blessing them with a delicate sprinkle of salt and pepper for foundational seasoning.
  5. Lavish the chicken with the prepared creamy sauce, creating an even blanket that promises moisture and depth.
  6. Crown the sauced chicken with the prepared stuffing, distributing the herbed mixture in a uniform landscape across the protein.
  7. Cascade melted butter over the stuffing, promising a golden, crisp texture that whispers of culinary indulgence.
  8. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, allowing 30-35 minutes of transformative heat until the chicken reaches a safe 165°F and the stuffing develops a tempting amber crispness.
  9. Pause momentarily after removing from the oven, letting the dish settle for 5 minutes before serving, optionally adorning with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Swap out regular stuffing mix for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that keeps the creamy texture.
  • Enhance flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture for a more complex taste profile.
  • Create a crispier topping by broiling the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking to get extra golden-brown stuffing edges.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 375 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 790 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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