Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Chicken Stuffing Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender, juicy chicken with crunchy, flavorful stuffing and a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings everything together perfectly.…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Chicken Stuffing Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender, juicy chicken with crunchy, flavorful stuffing and a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings everything together perfectly. The dish is comforting and filling, making it a great go-to for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
I love making this casserole when I want something that feels homey but doesn’t take forever to prepare. One of my favorite tricks is using a rotisserie chicken to save time—just shred the chicken, mix it with the stuffing and sauce, and pop it in the oven. It’s such an easy dish, but everyone always asks for seconds.
Serving this casserole alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies balances out the richness and keeps things fresh. It’s definitely one of those meals that brings people together around the table, perfect to share during chilly evenings or casual get-togethers. I always find myself daydreaming about leftovers the next day – they taste just as good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast ensures tender bites. Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time. If you prefer, turkey or even cooked tofu can be used.
Stuffing Mix: The seasoned bread stuffing adds crunch and flavor. If you want gluten-free, look for GF stuffing options or use cooked quinoa for a different texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This makes the casserole creamy and moist. For a lighter option, try using a homemade white sauce or plain Greek yogurt to keep it creamy but less rich.
Cheese: Swiss or cheddar both add a nice melt and flavor. Feel free to switch in mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want a milder taste.
How Do I Get a Crispy, Golden Topping on My Casserole?
The crispy topping is all about the butter and the baking time. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the stuffing before baking to help it brown nicely.
- Make sure the stuffing layer is spread evenly for uniform crisping.
- Bake uncovered so steam can escape and the top gets crunchy, not soggy.
- For extra crunch, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
- Keep an eye on the final 5 minutes to prevent burning—golden brown is ideal!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the layers and bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine chicken, stuffing, and sauce without spills.
- Spoon or spatula – for folding ingredients gently without breaking the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps get the right amounts of soup, broth, and cheese.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot casserole dish when it comes out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey to give it a classic holiday twist that’s just as tasty.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms or sautéed spinach for extra veggies and flavor.
- Add shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier cheese option.
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions or crushed crackers on top before baking for added crunch.
Chicken Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 package (about 6 oz) seasoned bread stuffing mix
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (or as needed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 to 35 minutes to bake. So, plan for roughly 45 minutes to have a warm, delicious casserole ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick later on.
2. Make the Stuffing:
Follow the instructions on the stuffing package, but use chicken broth instead of water for richer flavor. Once ready, set the stuffing aside to cool a bit.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine your cooked chicken, chopped celery, onion, parsley, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together well. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Stuffing:
Gently fold the prepared stuffing into your chicken mixture, making sure it’s evenly mixed but still fluffy.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake your casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown and everything is warmed through. When done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if you like, and enjoy your cozy, comforting dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken beforehand. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry before shredding to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, if you prefer a homemade version, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth or milk. This will keep the casserole creamy but with fresher flavors.