Experience the comforting embrace of this mouthwatering chicken and stuffing casserole, a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy soup and savory stuffing. It’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
This casserole is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, featuring shredded chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce topped with a golden, buttery stuffing crust. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve any occasion.
- Combines convenient ingredients for a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
- Offers a creamy, comforting texture balanced with a crispy topping.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients
- Cooked shredded chicken: Provides tender protein with a mild flavor, serving as the hearty base of the casserole.
- Stuffing mix: Adds a savory, herb-infused crispy topping that complements the creamy filling well.
- Cream of chicken soup: Creates a smooth, rich base that binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Sour cream: Offers creaminess and a subtle tanginess to enhance the flavor complexity.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the filling moist and adds a delicate savory depth to the casserole.
- Melted butter: Used to prepare the stuffing, ensuring a golden, flavorful crust.
- Chopped onion (optional): Adds a mild sharpness and aromatic quality for extra depth of flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish
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Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure even cooking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking and to promote easy serving.
- Combine the creamy filling
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth and well blended. This mixture creates a luscious base that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Incorporate chicken and onion
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Fold the cooked, shredded chicken and optional chopped onion into the creamy mixture. Incorporating the onion adds a subtle crunch and sweet aroma, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- Prepare the stuffing topping
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Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions, but reduce the water slightly and stir in melted butter to enrich the flavor and help achieve a crisp golden crust during baking.
- Assemble the casserole
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Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Then, carefully top it with the prepared stuffing mix, distributing it uniformly to create a balanced crispy layer on top.
- Bake until golden and bubbly
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Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the stuffing turns golden brown and the filling bubbles at the edges, signaling it’s hot and ready to serve.
- Rest before serving
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Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the layers to set, making it easier to cut and enhancing the flavors.
- Use freshly cooked chicken for best flavor, or leftovers work well to save time.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley to the stuffing mix for extra aroma.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat soup.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy stuffing texture and creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light herbal tea for a cozy dinner experience.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle some shredded cheese or toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Use homemade chicken stock if possible to deepen the flavors in the creamy sauce.
- Don’t skip resting the casserole; it helps the layers to firm up for neat serving slices.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?
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Yes, just thaw and cook the chicken completely before shredding and adding to the casserole to ensure food safety and proper texture.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
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To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup.
- Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
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Absolutely, assemble the casserole the day before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving to enjoy optimal flavor and texture.
- What can I use instead of stuffing mix?
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Alternative crunchy toppings include crushed crackers, breadcrumbs mixed with herbs, or even cooked quinoa for a healthier twist.
- How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
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Choose a gluten-free stuffing mix and confirm that the soup and broth are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs safely.
- Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
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Yes, adding chopped celery, carrots, or peas can enhance nutrition and flavor without compromising the dish’s texture.
Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 6 ounces stuffing mix
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and chopped onion if using.
- Prepare the stuffing mix with melted butter and slightly reduced water according to package instructions.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Top the chicken mixture with the prepared stuffing.
- Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for easy preparation.
- Omit onion for a milder taste or substitute with green onions.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
