This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines juicy chicken with flavorful stuffing. It’s like a hug in a bowl on a busy day!
Everyone loves the crispy top and the tasty mix of chicken and herbs. I love how easy it is to whip up! Just layer, bake, and enjoy a cozy meal with family. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftover chicken works well too. You can even use turkey if you have some on hand!
Stuffing Mix: Herb seasoned stuffing is classic, but you can swap it for cornbread stuffing or any other variety you like. Just make sure it’s seasoned to keep the flavor balanced.
Butter: If you want a lighter option, try using olive oil instead. It’ll still provide moisture, and you’ll get a different flavor profile. It’s an easy swap!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a healthier take. It adds creaminess without losing that tangy flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: You can use cream of mushroom soup for a twist, or opt for a homemade version if you want to avoid canned soups altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Casserole?
The layering process is essential for the best flavor and texture. Start by spreading half of the stuffing mix in the bottom. This creates a sturdy base that soaks up moisture.
- Add the chicken mixture evenly on top. This allows the chicken to stay juicy and flavorful.
- Finish with the remaining stuffing. This will become crispy while baking, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy chicken underneath.
Remember, difficulty often arises from not evenly spreading the layers, so take your time to make sure everything is well-distributed!
Chicken And Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 package (6 ounces) herb seasoned stuffing mix (about 8 cups)
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken and Stuffing Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of baking time, making a total of 1 hour for a comforting meal that’s ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole to cook evenly. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will create a creamy base for your casserole.
3. Make the Stuffing Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix, melted butter, sliced celery, diced onion, and chicken broth. Mix until the broth is soaked up and the stuffing is moistened. This will add flavor to the stuffing!
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the stuffing mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Then, layer the chicken mixture over the stuffing base. Lastly, add the remaining stuffing mixture, spreading it evenly on top. This layering will help keep the chicken juicy and the top crispy.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps to trap moisture in the casserole.
6. Crisp the Top:
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. This step gives it that delicious, crunchy topping we all love.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your comfort food delight!
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly here. Just shred or dice it similarly to how you would with chicken, and follow the recipe as usual.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it. This will still keep your casserole creamy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave it into your desired temperature.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few minutes to the baking time as needed.
