Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is just the kind of comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Tender chicken breasts nestled on a bed of fluffy, flavorful stuffing, all baked together until everything is golden and delicious. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
I love making this dish because it’s so forgiving and straightforward. I often use leftover stuffing or even store-bought mix, which saves me time, and the chicken stays juicy and tender thanks to baking it covered. It’s one of those recipes where you can add your own twist—maybe toss in some herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top. It always feels special but never fussy.
When I serve Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake, I like to pair it with some green veggies or a simple salad to keep things fresh. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the dinner table with happy smiles, making it a favorite in our house. Plus, clean-up is a breeze since it all bakes in one pan—just the way I like it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: These keep the dish lean and cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work also and add extra flavor and juiciness.
Stuffing mix: I like using herb-flavored boxed stuffing for convenience. You can swap with homemade stuffing or gluten-free versions if needed.
Cream of chicken soup: This helps create a creamy sauce. For a lighter version, try cream of mushroom or use Greek yogurt mixed with broth.
Sour cream: Adds richness and tang. If dairy is a concern, plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative also works well.
Celery and onion: These add texture and fresh flavor. If you don’t have fresh veggies, frozen versions can be used, just thaw and drain.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and Creamy While Keeping the Stuffing Crispy?
The trick is layering and baking covered, then uncovered:
- Spread half the stuffing in the pan to create a soft bed that absorbs chicken juices.
- Place seasoned chicken on top, then pour the creamy soup mix evenly over it for moisture.
- Add the rest of the stuffing on top to get a crispy crust after you bake covered first, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes.
- This method lets the chicken cook through gently and stay juicy while giving the stuffing a crunchy golden top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for layering chicken and stuffing; helps everything cook evenly.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one to mix the soup and sour cream and another for the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – so your ingredients are just right every time.
- Aluminum foil – covering the bake keeps moisture in and helps the chicken stay tender.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping celery, onion, and parsley easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts with thighs for juicier, richer meat that holds up well in the bake.
- Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, cheesy crust.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms or peas to sneak in extra veggies and flavor.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the stuffing for a fragrant twist.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried sage (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1 box (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix (or about 6 cups prepared stuffing)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onion
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45 to 50 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time mixing and layering the ingredients, then the oven will do the rest of the work. Letting it rest a few minutes after baking makes it easier to serve and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and set aside.
3. Prepare the Stuffing:
Follow the package instructions to prepare the stuffing mix, but replace the regular butter with the melted butter. Stir in the diced celery and onion so they soften and add flavor during baking.
4. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried sage if you like.
5. Assemble the Layers:
Spread half of the prepared stuffing evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the stuffing in a single layer. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken evenly. Then spread the remaining stuffing over the top to cover all the chicken.
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. This traps moisture and helps cook the chicken through.
7. Bake Uncovered for Crispiness:
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. This lets the stuffing on top become golden and crispy, while ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely burst of color and flavor. Enjoy with steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a comforting, well-rounded meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before assembling the bake. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing to ensure even cooking.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, covering to keep moisture in and prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Bake?
Yes! Diced mushrooms, peas, or carrots are great additions. Just sauté firmer veggies like carrots before adding so they soften during baking.
