Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is that perfect cozy meal that brings comfort and simplicity together in one dish. It features tender chicken breasts nestled on a bed of flavorful stuffing, all baked to golden perfection with a little melty cheese on top for an extra touch of deliciousness. The mix of juicy chicken and soft, herby stuffing creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this recipe on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but don’t feel like spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The best part is you just layer everything in one dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing while you relax or take care of other things. It’s simple, straightforward, and almost always a hit with everyone at the table.
When I serve this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home cooking, and I know it’ll bring smiles because it’s both easy and tasty—ideal for a comforting family dinner or a no-fuss get-together with friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken here because it’s already cooked and full of flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even cooked turkey for a twist. Just make sure it’s chopped up nicely.
Stuffing Mix: The boxed seasoned stuffing saves time and adds great flavor. If you’d like to skip the store-bought option, homemade stuffing works too—just make sure it’s not too soggy.
Chicken Broth: Broth keeps the stuffing moist and tasty. If you want a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead. Also, low-sodium broth lets you control the salt.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole. For dairy-free or lighter versions, try cream of mushroom soup or a homemade sauce made with broth and a little flour.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen veggies like peas, carrots, and corn add color and nutrition. Feel free to swap in fresh veggies or your favorites—green beans or mushrooms work nicely too.
How Do You Get the Stuffing Topping Crispy and Golden?
Getting that perfect crispy top on the stuffing makes this dish extra tasty. Here’s how I do it:
- Use melted butter drizzled on top for a golden color and richer flavor.
- Spread the stuffing in an even layer to help it cook uniformly.
- Bake covered with foil first to heat through and keep moisture.
- Remove foil toward the end to let the top brown and crisp up—watch closely to avoid burning.
- If you like, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end for extra crunch, but keep an eye on it!
These steps reliably give me that crunchy, golden crust I love every time, without drying out the chicken underneath.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking the chicken and stuffing evenly.
- Mixing bowl – to combine all the ingredients easily before assembling the bake.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the broth, soup, and seasonings just right.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the dish while baking and keep the moisture locked in.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to gently mix and spread the ingredients without breaking them up too much.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey – great for using holiday leftovers and adds a richer flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers – these add extra veggies and earthiness to the dish.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese – melty cheese on top makes it creamier and more indulgent.
- Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples – for a sweet contrast that brightens the savory flavors.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 box (6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (approximately, to moisten stuffing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots, celery, or a mix), thawed
- ½ cup chopped celery (optional, for extra crunch and flavor)
- ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons dried herbs (such as thyme, sage, or poultry seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for extra richness and golden topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and set up. Then, it needs about 45-50 minutes of baking time in the oven — 30 minutes covered plus 15-20 minutes uncovered to get that delicious golden stuffing topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick.
2. Mixing the Chicken and Vegetables:
In a large bowl, gently mix together the cooked chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, chopped celery and onion if using, dried herbs, cream of chicken soup, and half of the chicken broth. Stir gently to blend everything well.
3. Preparing the Stuffing:
Follow the instructions on the stuffing box. Usually, you’ll pour hot chicken broth over the stuffing mix and let it soak up the liquid.
4. Assembling the Casserole:
Spread half of the prepared stuffing evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, pour the chicken and vegetable mixture over the stuffing layer, spreading it out evenly. Finally, add the remaining stuffing on top, breaking it apart with your fingers or a fork to form an even layer.
5. Adding the Butter and Baking:
Drizzle melted butter over the top of the stuffing if you want a rich, golden crust. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, then bake for about 30 minutes.
6. Finishing the Bake:
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
This Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a perfect, comforting meal that’s simple and satisfying. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Chicken and Stuffing Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the assembly step, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How Do I 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, adding a splash of chicken broth if it feels dry.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free option, use a suitable dairy-free cream soup or make a sauce with broth and a thickener like flour or cornstarch.
