If you are searching for a heartwarming, soul-satisfying dinner that comes together with ease and loads of cozy flavors, this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled beneath a blanket of creamy, savory sauce and perfectly crisped stuffing on top. It’s an absolute delight that brings together simple pantry staples like cream of chicken soup and a trusty stuffing mix, transforming them into a luscious, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether it’s a weeknight win or a comforting weekend feast, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and effortless charm every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of rich, comforting flavors and appealing textures, making the final dish irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to stock up on for an unbeatable meal.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender protein that forms the hearty base of the bake.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor): Adds a crunchy, flavorful topping that gives the dish its signature crunch and aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Hydrates the stuffing mix, helping it become soft yet crispy once baked.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy, savory sauce that keeps the chicken moist and infuses the dish with comfort.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savoriness with a mild onion flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and elevating every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For a melty, golden finish that adds an extra dimension of indulgence.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A fresh, colorful touch that brightens the presentation and flavor.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on. This prep step sets you up perfectly for the layers of comfort that are about to come together.
Step 2: Hydrate the Stuffing Mix
Next, pour the hot water over the stuffing mix in a bowl. Give it a quick stir to ensure all the dry bits soak up the liquid. Allow this mixture to sit for a few minutes so the stuffing is moist but not soggy—this balance helps create that crave-worthy crispy topping you want on your Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Creamy Sauce Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This sauce is the flavorful glue that keeps everything moist and delicious. Stir until completely smooth and set aside until it’s time to layer.
Step 4: Layer Chicken and Sauce in the Baking Dish
Arrange your chicken breasts evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors. Then spoon and spread the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, covering it generously as this will soak into the meat as it bakes, keeping it tender and juicy.
Step 5: Add Stuffing and Cheese, Then Bake
Finally, top the sauced chicken with the prepared stuffing, making sure it’s evenly distributed. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top now for a gooey, golden crust. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the stuffing is perfectly golden and crisp.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe rest for a few minutes. This pause allows juices to redistribute, keeping every bite moist. For a fresh, vibrant finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy bake. You can also experiment with some snipped chives or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Side Dishes
To complement the hearty Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe, think bright and crisp sides like a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery green beans also make wonderful companions to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family gatherings, consider serving the bake directly from the baking dish garnished with fresh herbs. Alternatively, scoop individual portions onto plates and top with a drizzle of pan juices or a side dollop of sour cream infused with garlic and herbs for an extra touch of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the comfort of this dish well beyond the first meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well. To freeze, place cooled leftover portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. For quicker reheating, the microwave works great too—just cover and heat in short intervals to keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of stuffing mix?
Absolutely! Whether you prefer herb-flavored, cornbread, or traditional bread stuffing, any variety works well in this recipe. Each brings a unique flavor twist, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the sauce?
Sour cream adds richness and tang that balances the creamy soup and savory seasoning beautifully. However, if you need a substitute, Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used with minor flavor differences.
Can this recipe be made with bone-in chicken?
Yes, but keep in mind bone-in chicken pieces may require longer baking time to ensure they are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I add to make the dish more flavorful?
Consider seasoning your chicken with paprika, thyme, or smoked salt before baking for an extra flavor boost. Adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped onions into the sauce mixture also adds delicious depth.
Is the cheddar cheese topping necessary?
The cheese is optional but highly recommended if you love a melty, crispy topping. It adds a wonderful golden crust and extra savoriness that complements the stuffing and creamy sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is truly a home-cooked hug on a plate, combining ease, comfort, and irresistible flavor. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how it wasn’t a weekly tradition already. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into a cozy meal that’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Trust me, this one is worth every delicious bite!
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Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and easy one-dish meal featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with flavorful stuffing, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines simple pantry ingredients into a hearty, baked casserole that requires minimal prep and bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 1/2 cups of hot water. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to fully absorb the liquid and become moist.
- Make Sauce Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble Bake: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Spread the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Then, top the chicken with the prepared stuffing mixture, spreading evenly. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffing to add a rich, cheesy layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the chicken to start cooking and the flavors to meld.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing topping is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Let the bake rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- You can use any flavor of stuffing mix that you prefer, such as classic herb, cornbread, or sausage flavored.
- For extra moisture, ensure the chicken breasts are not too thick; pound them evenly if needed.
- If you prefer a crispier stuffing topping, broil the bake for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese or omit the cheese entirely.
