Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Recipe

If you're on the hunt for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love, then look no further! This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe is the perfect combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness. Whether you're preparing a weeknight meal or need something for a potluck, this recipe will deliver. Follow along for a complete guide, filled with tips, substitutions, and frequently asked questions. Keep reading to learn how to make this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What is Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a hearty dish that combines cooked chicken, flavorful stuffing mix, and a creamy sauce, all baked together to perfection. It's a classic comfort food recipe that is ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or any occasion when you need a filling and flavorful dish. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, yet it delivers rich flavors that feel like home.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

For the Chicken:

• 2-3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for seasoning chicken if cooking fresh)

For the Stuffing:

• 1 box of stuffing mix (about 6 oz)
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth or water (for moistening the stuffing mix)

For the Sauce:

• 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• ½ cup sour cream (for added creaminess)
• ½ cup milk (to loosen the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Casserole Topping:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Options: Instead of shredded chicken, you can use turkey (great for Thanksgiving leftovers) or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add a mix of your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms. Use a vegetable-based cream soup for the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure your condensed soup is also gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based sour cream substitute.
• Cheese: While cheddar cheese adds a lovely richness, you can omit it for a lighter casserole, or swap it for mozzarella or Parmesan for a different taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it's hot and ready for your casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook the chicken by baking, boiling, or pan-frying until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions, but replace the water with chicken broth for added flavor. This usually involves heating the broth, then mixing it with the stuffing and letting it sit for a few minutes to absorb.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme (if using). This creamy mixture will hold everything together and give your casserole its rich flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well distributed. Top the sauce with the prepared stuffing mixture, spreading it out evenly over the entire dish.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Melt the butter and drizzle it over the top of the stuffing for extra moisture and flavor. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top as well.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

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

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Cook and shred, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
3. Prepare stuffing: Follow package instructions, using chicken broth for added flavor.
4. Mix sauce: Combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings.
5. Assemble: Layer chicken, sauce, and stuffing in a casserole dish.
6. Top and bake: Add butter and cheese (optional), then bake for 30-35 minutes.
7. Let it cool: Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry, overcooked chicken can make the casserole less enjoyable. If you're cooking chicken from scratch, make sure not to overcook it. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and is usually tender and juicy.
• Dry Stuffing: Ensure your stuffing is moist but not soggy. Using chicken broth instead of water will enhance the flavor. Add just enough liquid for the stuffing to absorb, but avoid over-soaking it.
• Skipping the Butter: Don’t skip the butter drizzle over the stuffing. It helps keep the top layer moist and prevents the stuffing from becoming too dry.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set. Cutting into it too soon can make it too runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a filling meal on its own, but you can serve it with a few simple side dishes to balance the richness:

• Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad to add some lightness to the meal.
• Bread: A slice of garlic bread or a dinner roll can complement the savory flavors of the casserole.
• Cranberry Sauce: Especially during the holidays, cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the casserole for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic look, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet.
• Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in small, individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Double the Recipe: Feeding a crowd? Double the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey, especially if you have leftovers from a holiday meal.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
A: Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just assemble the casserole without baking, freeze, and then thaw before baking.

Q: What type of stuffing should I use?
A: You can use any stuffing mix you prefer. Traditional herb-flavored stuffing works best, but feel free to experiment with cornbread stuffing or other varieties.

Conclusion

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it for a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or just when you're craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With simple ingredients, easy substitutions, and foolproof instructions, you can enjoy this delicious casserole any time. Be sure to try out the variations, and don’t forget the toppings for that extra special touch!

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