Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, chicken and stuffing casserole is where it’s at. This easy, crowd-pleasing casserole combines juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness into one perfect bake. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a larger holiday spread, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Here’s how to make it, along with some ideas for making it your own.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)—perfect use for leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts.
1 box stuffing mix (about 6 oz)—you can go with classic, cornbread, or whatever variety you prefer.
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)—or swap in a healthier version, like low-fat or even a homemade creamy base.
1/2 cup chicken broth—for added moisture and flavor.
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh, like peas, carrots, and corn).
1/2 cup sour cream—for richness (Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you prefer).
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)—cheddar works well, but mozzarella or Parmesan will also do the trick.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the chicken: If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, quickly cook your chicken (grilled, baked, or sautéed works well), then chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the stuffing: Follow the instructions on the stuffing mix box. Typically, you’ll add hot water or broth to the mix, then let it sit for a few minutes until it’s ready to use.

4. Combine the casserole base: In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, mixed veggies, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and half of your cheese (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the stuffing mixture, spreading it out to cover the whole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, if you like.

6. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Variations on Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

While the basic version is delicious on its own, feel free to mix things up based on your tastes and dietary preferences.

Healthier Versions: Want to make it a bit lighter? Use low-fat soup, whole-grain stuffing, or add more veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Gluten-Free: Simply swap the stuffing for a gluten-free version, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs or cornbread.
Flavor Boosts: Add dried cranberries for a sweet touch, or mix in some cooked sausage for an extra savory kick.
Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and try using a hearty veggie filling like mushrooms, squash, or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Keep the stuffing moist: If your stuffing looks too dry, drizzle in a little extra chicken broth or even some melted butter before baking.
Make ahead: This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready!
Get a crispy topping: For a crispy golden crust, bake uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes. If you want it extra crispy, broil for a minute or two at the end.
Reheat leftovers: To keep it fresh, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the casserole’s texture nicer.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and stuffing casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are some side dishes to consider:

Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Veggies: Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a simple, healthy side.
Mashed Potatoes: If you want to go all out, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower is always a great choice.

Conclusion

Chicken and stuffing casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your own cravings. With its creamy filling, savory stuffing, and tender chicken, it’s the kind of meal everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to make and customize—you can turn it into whatever suits your tastes. Try it out, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients!

FAQs

Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Yes! You can make the casserole ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and bake it directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use different kinds of meat besides chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey, pork, or even cooked beef can be used in place of chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with a homemade cream sauce, or use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead—both will work great in this dish.