Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake

This easy chicken stuffing bake is the perfect blend of creamy, tender chicken and a crispy, golden topping that makes it so comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to share with friends and family, this casserole comes together simply and fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas.

I first made this on a chilly evening, and it instantly became a family favorite. Now it’s a dish my loved ones ask for whenever they need that cozy, home-cooked feeling.

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken: brings protein and tenderness rotisserie chicken is a great time saver
• Cream of chicken soup: adds creaminess and depth choose a brand with simple ingredients for the best flavor
• Sour cream or mayonnaise: provides richness and binds the casserole without making it heavy choose sour cream for a tangier taste
• Chicken broth: keeps everything moist and flavorful using low sodium helps control salt levels
• Stuffing mix: is the star topping creating a crispy texture fresh stuffing mix works better to avoid sogginess
• Melted butter: gives the stuffing a golden crust and wonderful aroma
• Salt and pepper: are essential to enhance and balance all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a nine by thirteen-inch baking dish. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Mix the Creamy Base:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed. This creamy base acts as the glue holding all the layers together.

Layer the Casserole:

Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Make sure it’s a uniform layer to support the stuffing topping well.

Add Stuffing:

Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions but use a bit less water than usual. This helps keep the topping crisp after baking. Spoon the stuffing evenly over the chicken layer then drizzle melted butter on top to encourage a golden finish.

Bake:

Place the casserole in the oven uncovered and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You want to see a nice golden crust on top and bubbles around the edges showing it is cooked through.

Cool and Serve:

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the layers to set and makes the dish easier to cut and serve.

Pin

Storage Tips

Keep leftover casserole covered tightly in the fridge and consume within three days. For reheating, cover with foil and warm at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. You can freeze wrapped portions for up to three months just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option swap sour cream with Greek yogurt to keep creaminess with less fat. Those with gluten intolerance can choose gluten-free stuffing mix and confirm that the soup and broth are gluten-free too. Mayonnaise can replace sour cream if you want a slightly different texture and milder tang.

Pin

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to add freshness and balance richness. Cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully for a holiday twist especially if swapping chicken for turkey. A glass of chilled white wine or lemon-infused sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.

Pro Tips

• Toast the stuffing in the oven for a few minutes before topping if you want extra crunch
• Avoid over-wetting the stuffing with water keep it moist but not soggy to maintain crispiness
• Let the casserole rest before serving for better texture and easier slicing without it falling apart

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, swapping turkey introduces a lovely holiday twist while maintaining the dish's rich, creamy layers.

→ How do I prevent the stuffing from becoming soggy?

Use slightly less water than package instructions when preparing the stuffing to keep the topping crisp after baking.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake fresh when needed without sacrificing flavor.

→ Can I substitute sour cream with mayonnaise?

Yes, mayonnaise offers a similar creamy texture and rich flavor as a substitute in the base mixture.

→ What side dishes pair well with this bake?

Simple steamed green beans, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp fresh salad help balance the casserole's richness.

→ How can I achieve an extra crunchy topping?

Toast the stuffing mix briefly in the oven before topping the casserole to enhance crispness.