Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week, look no further than this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe. Combining tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce, this dish is pure comfort food in casserole form. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a dish to take to a potluck, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making this delicious, crowd-pleasing bake!

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What is Chicken Stuffing Bake?

Chicken Stuffing Bake is a simple yet hearty casserole made with cooked chicken, prepared stuffing, and a creamy sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that combines protein, carbs, and flavor in one comforting dish. Typically made with a mixture of cooked chicken, a can of condensed soup (like cream of chicken or mushroom), and stuffing mix, this casserole is topped with cheese or buttered breadcrumbs and baked until bubbly and golden. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Stuffing Bake

To make this easy and delicious Chicken Stuffing Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or cubed) – You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or cooked chicken breasts.
2. Stuffing Mix (1 box, 6 oz) – Any boxed stuffing mix will work, like Stove Top or Pepperidge Farm. Choose chicken flavor for the best taste.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – The base of the creamy sauce. You can also use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
4. Sour Cream (1 cup) – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
5. Chicken Broth (1 cup) – To moisten the stuffing and add flavor.
6. Butter (¼ cup, melted) – Helps to moisten the stuffing and adds richness.
7. Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Optional, but adds a cheesy topping to the bake.
8. Frozen Mixed Vegetables (optional, 1 cup) – Carrots, peas, and corn are great add-ins for extra nutrition and color.
9. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
10. Dried Herbs (optional, 1 tsp) – Add a touch of thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken Stuffing Bake recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or a meat substitute, and use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. You can also add more vegetables to make it heartier.
• Stuffing Mix Variations: You can use cornbread stuffing mix for a Southern twist or herb-seasoned stuffing for extra flavor. Gluten-free stuffing mixes are also available if needed.
• Cheese Substitutes: Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
• Cream Soup Options: Feel free to substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cream of broccoli.
• Add-ins: You can mix in cooked bacon or sausage for an even heartier dish. Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers can also add extra flavor and texture.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium broth and a low-sodium stuffing mix to reduce the salt content.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Chicken Stuffing Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of hot chicken broth. Stir to moisten the stuffing, and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
3. Cook the Chicken (if needed): If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken (such as rotisserie or leftover chicken), cook chicken breasts or thighs by boiling or baking until cooked through. Shred or cube the cooked chicken and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and a little salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding vegetables, mix them into this creamy mixture.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Top with Stuffing: Spoon the moistened stuffing mixture over the creamy chicken layer, spreading it evenly across the dish.
7. Add Cheese (optional): If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the stuffing.
8. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Dry Chicken: Make sure your chicken is tender and moist before adding it to the casserole. If using leftover chicken, you can add a little extra broth or sauce to keep it from drying out in the oven.
2. Not Moistening the Stuffing: Be sure to moisten the stuffing with broth or water before adding it to the casserole. This ensures the stuffing doesn’t come out too dry or crunchy.
3. Overcooking: Bake just until the stuffing is golden and the casserole is heated through. Overcooking can dry out the chicken and the sauce.
4. Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake

This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with some light, refreshing sides can elevate the meal even more:

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Cranberry Sauce: For a seasonal touch, serve a side of cranberry sauce to add a sweet-tart contrast to the savory casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Stuffing Bake

For a simple but appealing presentation:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bowls.

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Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred the chicken and use it in place of cooked chicken breasts.

Can I make Chicken Stuffing Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftover Thanksgiving or holiday turkey. Just shred the turkey and use it in place of the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like frozen peas, carrots, corn, or broccoli to the creamy chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting too dry?

To avoid a dry casserole, make sure your chicken is tender and moist, and add enough broth to moisten the stuffing. You can also cover the casserole with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the stuffing from drying out too much.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is the ultimate comfort food – simple, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a savory stuffing topping, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a cozy meal, this casserole brings together all the best flavors in one dish. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken or making it from scratch, this versatile recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy this delicious bake

and treat your family to a meal they’ll ask for again and again!

Happy cooking, and enjoy your cozy Chicken Stuffing Bake!

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