This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a warm and cozy meal. It’s made with juicy chicken, creamy soup, and seasoned stuffing on top. Easy to bake and perfect for any day!
I love how this dish brings all the flavors together in one big hug of comfort. Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch! Can’t resist a second helping! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or leftovers for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked chickpeas or mushrooms for a hearty substitute.
Stuffing Mix: While a seasoned stuffing mix is traditional, homemade stuffing is a delightful alternative. You could use bread cubes and add your own herbs for more flavor. Gluten-free stuffing mixes are also widely available if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you want a lighter option, try using cream of celery or a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can work in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Frozen Veggies: The peas and carrots mix is convenient, but you could use any frozen vegetable medley you like—green beans or corn go well too! Fresh veggies are also a great option if you have them on hand.
How Do You Bake the Perfect Casserole?
Baking a casserole to perfection takes a little attention to detail. Here’s how to ensure your Chicken & Stuffing Casserole turns out great:
- Preheat the Oven: Always start by preheating your oven. This helps cook the casserole evenly.
- Grease the Dish: Use cooking spray or butter to grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients Well: Combine your ingredients thoroughly so every bite has all the delicious flavors.
- Check for Doneness: You want the casserole to be bubbly and the stuffing golden. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re all set to make a delightful Chicken & Stuffing Casserole that’ll bring smiles at the dinner table!
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 package (6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 to 35 minutes for baking. So, in about an hour, you can have a delicious Chicken & Stuffing Casserole ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures your casserole cooks evenly and becomes perfectly bubbly and golden brown.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
In a bowl, mix the stuffing mix with chicken broth, just like it says on the package. Using chicken broth instead of water will give it a wonderful flavor boost!
3. Mix the Chicken Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, chopped onion, frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed and everything is coated nicely.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly so every scoop has a little of everything.
5. Add the Stuffing Layer:
Now, take the stuffing you prepared and spread it evenly over the top of the chicken mixture. This will create a delicious topping!
6. Drizzle with Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing. This will help the stuffing crisp up beautifully as it bakes.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot and bubbly, and the stuffing is a lovely golden color on top.
8. Let it Cool:
After you take it out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. This waiting time helps everything settle just a little and makes serving easier.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy your cozy and hearty Chicken & Stuffing Casserole!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this casserole. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded similarly to how you would with chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a simple béchamel sauce using butter, flour, and milk for a homemade option.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green beans—whatever you have on hand works great!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Enjoy your second serving!
