Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, flavorful stuffing, and melty cheese all in one pan. It’s the perfect meal when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part is how the stuffing soaks up the juices from the chicken, making every bite full of flavor and a little bit crispy on top.
I love making this recipe when I need a cozy dinner that everyone will enjoy. It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug on a plate! I usually use store-bought stuffing mix to keep things quick and easy, but you can jazz it up with extra herbs or even some chopped veggies if you want. I also like to sprinkle a little extra cheese over the top so it gets nice and golden as it bakes.
When I serve this dish, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to keep things balanced. It’s great for busy weeknights or for those times when you want a homemade meal but don’t want to fuss too much. Plus, leftovers are just as tasty the next day, so it’s a win-win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps this dish lean and quick to cook. You can swap with thighs for juicier meat if you prefer a richer flavor.
Stuffing mix: Store-bought seasoned stuffing mix saves time and adds great flavor. If you want, use homemade stuffing or gluten-free stuffing for dietary needs.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and helps bind the dish. Use cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different but tasty twist.
Mixed vegetables, celery & onion: These add texture and mild sweetness. Fresh or frozen mixed veggies work well, and diced celery and onion give that classic stuffing taste.
Dried thyme: It brings a warm, earthy note. Fresh thyme works too—just sprinkle it on top before baking for a fresh herbal touch.
How Do You Get a Crispy and Golden Stuffing Topping?
The crispy, golden topping is what makes this bake so special. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Mix the stuffing with melted butter before adding it on top. Butter helps it brown and adds flavor.
- Spread the stuffing in an even, loose layer so heat can circulate and crisp the bread pieces.
- Bake uncovered so moisture can escape, letting the stuffing dry out and turn golden.
- If your topping isn’t crisping enough, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning!
By following these steps, you’ll get that soft inside with a nicely crisp top—just how stuffing should be.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for evenly cooking the chicken and stuffing together.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining chicken, veggies, and soup before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of broth, soup, herbs, and butter.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir all the ingredients without scratching your bowl.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for cooked turkey—great for using holiday leftovers.
- Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, melty finish.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggie goodness.
- Stir in fresh or dried sage instead of thyme for a slightly earthier flavor twist.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package (about 6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix (or 6 cups prepared stuffing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots), drained
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake in the oven. In under an hour, you can have a warm, flavorful chicken and stuffing bake ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken pieces, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed veggies, diced celery, onion, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
2. Layering with Stuffing:
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions or use prepared stuffing. If you’re starting with dried stuffing mix, stir it together with the melted butter first to add flavor and help it crisp up in the oven. Then, spread the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
3. Baking and Serving:
Sprinkle a little extra thyme over the top for added flavor, and bake the dish uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for the stuffing to turn golden brown and the chicken to be fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal with some fresh salad or steamed veggies on the side!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before chopping and mixing. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the bake up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can help keep it moist.
Can I Add Cheese to This Recipe?
Definitely! Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top about 10 minutes before it’s done baking for a deliciously melty and golden finish.
