I’m so excited to share my absolute favorite dinner solution with you today. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and herb-infused stuffing that just speaks to my comfort food-loving soul. When those aromas start wafting through the kitchen? Pure heaven.
This chicken and stuffing casserole comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor—perfect for those evenings when you want something homey but don’t have hours to spend cooking. Want to know the secret ingredient that makes this version stand out from all the others?
Why You’ll Love this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
When you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, this chicken and stuffing casserole is about to become your new best friend. It combines tender shredded chicken with savory stuffing in one cozy dish.
I can’t get enough of how the buttery stuffing creates a perfect crunchy topping while the creamy chicken mixture bubbles underneath. Can you imagine anything more satisfying? The best part? You can customize it with veggies or extra seasonings to make it your own. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinner with the family.
What Ingredients are in Chicken & Stuffing Casserole?
This classic comfort food casserole comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry and freezer.
- 1 to 2 pounds cooked, shredded chicken
- 6 oz stove-top stuffing mix
- 1 to 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or celery soup
- 1/4 cup milk or sour cream (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- Salt, pepper, thyme, and celery seed to taste (optional seasonings)
Feel free to customize this recipe to your family’s preferences—maybe add different vegetables like corn or green beans, or swap in cream of mushroom soup if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350-375°F while you gather all your ingredients. This gives you plenty of time to prep everything while the oven reaches the perfect temperature. When preparing your casserole, having premium baking cookware can make all the difference in achieving consistent, delicious results.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Mix your 1 to 2 pounds of cooked, shredded chicken with one 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup and 1/4 cup milk or sour cream if you’re using it. Toss in 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots if you’re adding vegetables—they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Now’s the time to add your personal touch with salt, pepper, a sprinkle of thyme, and maybe some celery seed. Season according to your family’s taste preferences—some like it mild, others prefer more herby goodness.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour your chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly to create the perfect base layer. A 9×13 dish works beautifully for this recipe.
Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
Melt 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter in a bowl, then stir in the 6 oz package of stuffing mix. Gradually add 1 to 1.5 cups of chicken broth until the stuffing reaches your desired level of moisture—not too dry, not too soggy.
Step 6: Layer the Stuffing
Spread your prepared stuffing mixture over the chicken layer, covering it completely. This creates that gorgeous golden top that makes everyone want to dive right in.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for that moment when the edges get bubbly and the stuffing turns a beautiful golden brown on top.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This little bit of patience allows everything to set up nicely, making it easier to serve up those perfect portions.
What to Serve with Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
This cozy casserole shines as a dinner centerpiece, but it needs a few complementary sides to round out the meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly—just toss some mixed greens with cucumber and tomato. Cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast that works beautifully with the savory stuffing. For a vegetable option, roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans keep things simple but satisfying. And don’t forget some warm dinner rolls for sopping up that delicious sauce! If you’re serving company, a light white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, while the kids might enjoy sparkling apple cider for a special touch. The beauty of this casserole is how it transforms humble ingredients into pure comfort on a plate.
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Substitutions and Variations
• Topping Ideas: Crispy fried onions, toasted almonds, or fresh herbs make beautiful garnishes that add texture and visual appeal.
Leftovers and Storage for this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
This comforting casserole stores beautifully! Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making day-two servings sometimes even more delicious than the first round.
For freezing, portion cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Just remember to label with the date—we’ve all played that mysterious freezer food guessing game!
When reheating, add a splash of broth before covering with foil and warming at 325°F until heated through (about 20 minutes from refrigerated, longer from frozen). The extra moisture prevents the stuffing from drying out. For single servings, microwave with a damp paper towel over top to maintain moisture and that just-baked texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole represents comfort food at its finest—a perfect marriage of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce that somehow feels like a warm hug on a plate. The beauty lies in its versatility; dress it up with herbs and vegetables for Sunday dinner or keep it simple for a weeknight meal when time is short.
It’s particularly welcome during those busy holiday seasons when you need something substantial but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. There’s something deeply satisfying about pulling this golden-topped dish from the oven, knowing that everyone at your table will find something to love about this unpretentious yet thoroughly delicious classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance and Freeze It?
Yes, I’d recommend freezing it before baking. Assemble completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 10-15 minutes cooking time.
How Do I Prevent the Stuffing From Getting Too Soggy?
I’d recommend using less liquid in your stuffing mix and making sure it’s just moistened, not wet. You can also bake the casserole uncovered to help the top get crispy rather than soggy.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
I’d highly recommend rotisserie chicken – it’s perfect for this casserole. Just shred it up and you’ll save tons of prep time while adding great flavor to your dish. No cooking required!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Potlucks and Transporting?
I find this casserole perfect for potlucks. It travels well, stays warm for a while, and doesn’t dry out easily. I’d recommend a casserole carrier with a tight-fitting lid for transport.
How Do I Double This Recipe for a Larger Crowd?
I’d double all ingredients and use a larger 9×13 baking dish. You might need to extend baking time by 5-10 minutes, and I recommend checking that the center reaches 165°F before serving.