Description
This comforting Chicken & Stuffing Casserole combines tender chicken breasts baked under a flavorful, moist stuffing topped with creamy soup and optional melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole delivers homey flavors with minimal prep and uses simple ingredients for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra flavor)
Stuffing Mixture
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing, if preferred)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for creamier texture)
Topping
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or mushroom soup for a twist)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to get ready for baking the casserole.
- Season and Optional Sear: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If desired, lightly pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown to enhance flavor.
- Make Stuffing Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with chicken broth and sour cream (if using). Stir well so the stuffing absorbs the liquid and becomes moist.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Chicken: Place the seasoned (and optionally seared) chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Add Stuffing: Spread the moistened stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts to cover them completely.
- Top with Soup and Cheese: Pour the can of cream of chicken soup evenly over the stuffing layer. If you want a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing turns golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, ideally alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For more flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Lightly pan-searing the chicken before baking is optional but enhances taste and texture.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Sour cream adds creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Ensure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
