Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and flavorful stuffing all baked in one dish. The chicken stays juicy while the stuffing gets crispy on top, making every bite deliciously satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something simple but tasty.
I love making this bake because it doesn’t take much effort but always feels special. I usually use a good-quality store-bought stuffing mix to keep things quick, and sometimes I add a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor. It’s a great recipe to throw together when life gets hectic but you want a homey dinner on the table.
This dish is great served with a side of green beans or a fresh salad to balance out the meal. I often make a big pan so there are leftovers for the next day, and it reheats really well. It’s one of those recipes that makes me feel cozy and satisfied, no matter the season.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the bake lean and cooks quickly. You can also use cooked shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Stuffing Mix: Herb-flavored stuffing adds great taste and texture. If you can’t find it, plain stuffing mix with added dried rosemary or sage works well.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates the creamy base. Use cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor, or swap with a homemade white sauce if you prefer.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrition. You can swap frozen for fresh veggies like peas, carrots, and corn if you have them on hand.
Butter: Melted butter on the stuffing gives it a nice golden crisp. For a dairy-free alternative, use olive oil or coconut oil.
How Do You Make the Stuffing Topping Crispy and Delicious?
Getting a crispy, golden topping is all about how you prepare and bake the stuffing:
- Mix the stuffing with melted butter: Butter helps the crumbs brown and adds richness.
- Sprinkle evenly: Spread the stuffing in an even layer over the chicken mixture to ensure uniform crispness.
- Bake uncovered: Leaving the dish uncovered lets moisture escape so the top crisps up.
- Watch the time and temperature: Baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes optimizes crispiness without drying out the casserole.
- Optional broil: For extra crunch, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—just watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – big enough for the chicken and stuffing to cook evenly without spilling.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the soup, broth, chicken, and veggies easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts, especially the liquids and seasoning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the mixture without scratching bowls or dishes.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – handy if you want to cover the bake partway through to keep it moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for shredded rotisserie chicken to speed up prep and add extra flavor.
- Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese under the stuffing for a melty, cheesy twist.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for deeper flavor and extra veggies.
- Mix in dried sage or rosemary with the stuffing for a more robust, herbal taste perfect for fall dinners.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
- 1 box (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as corn, peas, carrots)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for prep, including chopping and mixing, and then 30 to 40 minutes of baking time. In total, plan for roughly 45 to 55 minutes from start to finish to get a delicious, warm, and crispy chicken and stuffing bake on your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole does not stick and gets baked evenly.
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir these together well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Chicken and Veggies
To the creamy base, add the cooked and chopped chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, diced celery, and diced onion. Stir everything to combine evenly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Assemble in Baking Dish
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly inside the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s laid out flat for even cooking.
5. Prepare and Add the Stuffing
Prepare the stuffing mix following package directions, using melted butter in place of oil or butter if you want a richer taste. If you prefer, toss the dry stuffing crumbs with the melted butter directly. Then sprinkle the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
6. Add Flavor and Bake
Sprinkle dried thyme over the top to add a fragrant hint of herbs. Bake the dish uncovered in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the stuffing topping turns golden brown and crispy and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Take the bake out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This warm meal goes great with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies on the side for a wholesome dinner.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Bake?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking and chopping. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from fridge to oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Can I Add Cheese to This Recipe?
Yes! Adding shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese under the stuffing topping is a tasty way to make this bake extra rich and flavorful. Sprinkle it on before adding the stuffing.
