Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce all baked to golden perfection. It’s simple to make but feels like a warm, home-cooked meal that everyone will enjoy. The stuffing soaks up all the flavors, making every bite tasty and satisfying.
I love making this casserole when I want something quick but still hearty. It’s one of those recipes where you can use leftover chicken or even a rotisserie chicken from the store, which saves so much time. Sometimes I add a little cheese on top for a melty finish, but it’s delicious even without it. The best part? It’s a dish that’s hard to mess up, so it’s great for busy weeknights.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies on the side to balance out the richness. It’s also fantastic warmed up as leftovers for lunch the next day. Whenever I make it, I always think about cozy family dinners and how food like this brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves cooking time, but leftover baked or boiled chicken works just as well. You can also use shredded turkey for a twist.
Stuffing Mix: The seasoned boxed stuffing mix is a shortcut here. If you want, try gluten-free stuffing or homemade stuffing made with bread cubes, herbs, and broth.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This cream-based soup gives creaminess and depth. For a lighter option, swap it for cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce.
Sour Cream: It adds tanginess and moisture. Greek yogurt makes a good substitute, keeping the texture creamy with a bit more protein.
Celery and Onion: These veggies bring freshness and crunch. You can add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers if you want extra flavor and texture.
How Do You Get a Crispy, Golden Stuffing Topping?
Getting that perfect golden crust on the stuffing is key to this casserole’s appeal. Here’s my tip to nail it every time:
- After mixing half the stuffing inside the casserole, sprinkle the rest evenly on top. Don’t compress it; keep it loose for crispiness.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top. Butter helps the stuffing brown and adds rich flavor.
- Bake uncovered so the heat crisps the topping without steaming it.
- Check the casserole towards the end of baking. If it’s browning too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.
This method gives you a crunchy, flavorful top layer while the inside stays soft and creamy. A great mix to look forward to in each bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowl – you’ll combine all the ingredients here; a large one makes stirring simpler.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right amounts for each ingredient.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing without scratching your bowl or dish.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked chopped mushrooms or green beans for extra veggies and texture.
- Swap chicken for turkey to make it a great post-holiday meal with leftover turkey meat.
- Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese in the filling for a cheesier version.
- Stir in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness that balances savory flavors.
Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (6 oz) box seasoned stuffing mix (or about 6 cups prepared stuffing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including chopping and mixing, plus 30 to 35 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just under an hour, perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Stuffing:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions, but use chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Once ready, set the stuffing aside.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped celery, and chopped onions. Stir everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Then gently fold in about half of the prepared stuffing mix.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread the chicken and stuffing mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining stuffing evenly over the top. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing to help it brown beautifully.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until it’s hot throughout and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, then serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced, cozy meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave, then shred or chop as needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To go dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative. Check the stuffing mix ingredients as some may contain butter or milk.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
