Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings? This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate choice. With tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover everything you need to know about this dish, from the ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, substitutions, and more. Let’s get started!

What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a savory, layered dish made with seasoned stuffing mix, cooked chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. The casserole is baked to perfection, creating a rich, flavorful meal that brings together the best of two comfort food staples—juicy chicken and savory stuffing. It’s a quick and convenient recipe that’s ideal for a cozy dinner or even holiday feasts when you need a simple yet satisfying dish.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Here are the essential ingredients you'll need to make a classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

• 2 lbs of cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1 box of stuffing mix (preferably herb-seasoned)
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 cup of sour cream
• ½ cup of melted butter
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn work well)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Toppings

For the topping, you can add additional flavors and textures to make the casserole even more delightful:

• ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional but adds extra creaminess)
• ¼ cup of crispy fried onions (optional for crunch)
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

There’s a lot of flexibility in a Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Protein Options: You can swap out the chicken for turkey, especially if you have leftovers from a holiday meal. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
2. Stuffing Mix: If you prefer a homemade stuffing, you can make your own with bread cubes, broth, and herbs. Cornbread stuffing also adds a unique flavor.
3. Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh vegetables like diced celery or mushrooms instead of frozen mixed veggies. Broccoli or green beans also work well.
4. Dairy-Free Option: To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the cream of chicken soup and sour cream with non-dairy versions or use coconut milk for the creamy base.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Simply use gluten-free stuffing mix and check the labels on your cream of chicken soup to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the stuffing with hot water or broth and butter. Set aside once it’s ready.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In a medium saucepan, cook your frozen or fresh vegetables until they are tender but not overcooked. Drain any excess liquid and set the vegetables aside.
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce: In another mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and chicken broth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and salt. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
5. Layer the Ingredients: Begin layering your casserole. First, spread the cooked, shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Next, add the cooked vegetables over the chicken layer. Pour the creamy sauce mixture on top of the chicken and vegetables.
6. Add the Stuffing: Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the creamy chicken and vegetable layer. Press down lightly to make sure everything is compact.
7. Optional Toppings: If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese or crispy fried onions, sprinkle them on top of the stuffing.
8. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
9. Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

How to Cook Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a simple process that can be broken down into just a few easy steps:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken, prepare the stuffing mix, and cook the vegetables.
2. Make the Sauce: Stir together the creamy base made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, butter, and seasonings.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce in a casserole dish, then top with stuffing and any optional toppings.
4. Bake and Serve: Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly, then let it rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe like this one, a few common mistakes can happen. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Dry Casserole: One of the biggest mistakes is making a dry casserole. Make sure to use enough broth or liquid in the stuffing mix and creamy sauce to keep everything moist.
2. Overcooked Chicken: Avoid overcooking your chicken, as it can become tough. If using pre-cooked chicken, make sure it's just reheated in the oven, not cooked further.
3. Undercooked Vegetables: If you’re using fresh vegetables, ensure they are cooked until tender before adding them to the casserole. Otherwise, they might remain crunchy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, even for a cozy casserole dish. Here’s how to make your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole look as appealing as it tastes:

1. Serve in Individual Portions: Scoop out portions of the casserole onto individual plates for a neat presentation.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top of the casserole just before serving to add a pop of color.
3. Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this rich dish with a fresh, crunchy side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
4. Rustic Serving Dish: For family-style dining, serve the casserole directly from a rustic, oven-safe dish that adds charm to the table.

How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to serve alongside this comforting dish:

• Cranberry Sauce: For a holiday-inspired meal, serve a side of cranberry sauce to add a tart contrast to the savory casserole.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing, especially with the rich sauce in the casserole.
• Green Beans: A simple side of green beans sautéed in butter and garlic adds freshness and a bit of crunch.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are always a hit and perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

1. Holiday Vibes: For a holiday dinner, garnish the top with dried cranberries and fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive look.
2. Rustic Charm: Serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet or rustic ceramic baking dish for a cozy, homemade vibe.
3. Layered Appeal: When serving, make sure to show off the beautiful layers of chicken, veggies, and stuffing by cutting neat, square portions.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover it with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this casserole and saves time.

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just refrigerate it, and then bake when you’re ready.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Make sure to use enough broth or liquid in the stuffing and sauce mixture. Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking also helps retain moisture.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and follow the freezing instructions mentioned above.

Conclusion

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or holiday meals. Its creamy, savory flavors, combined with tender chicken and fluffy stuffing, make it a true crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and plenty of room for customization, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that warms the soul. Give this recipe a try today, and you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite for all ages!

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