Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a cozy, all-in-one meal that’s perfect when you want something simple and satisfying. Tender chicken pieces are baked alongside fluffy, flavorful stuffing that soaks up all the delicious juices. The crunchy top with hints of herbs makes every bite a winner.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it’s straightforward and feels like a warm hug on a plate. You just pop everything in the oven and let it do its magic while you take a break or get other things done. Plus, using pre-made stuffing is a total time saver without losing any taste.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to lighten things up. It’s the kind of meal that’s great for family dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly because everyone loves the mix of juicy chicken and comforting stuffing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, but cooked baked or grilled chicken breast works great too. Leftover chicken can also save time and reduce waste.
Stuffing mix: Herb-flavored stuffing adds great taste and texture. If you prefer gluten-free, look for gluten-free stuffing or make your own using gluten-free bread cubes.
Cream of chicken soup: This binds the dish and adds creaminess. For a lighter option, try using cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce with broth and a bit of flour.
Vegetables (celery, onion, corn): These add crunch and sweetness. You can swap corn with peas or carrots if you like, and fresh or frozen veggies work well here.
How Do You Get the Stuffing Topping Crispy and Golden?
That crispy, golden topping is what makes this dish special. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the stuffing crumbs with melted butter to help them brown nicely in the oven.
- Spread the stuffing evenly on top of the chicken mixture to ensure consistent crispness.
- Bake uncovered so the moisture can escape, letting the stuffing get crunchy instead of soggy.
- If you want extra crisp, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and getting that crispy topping.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine chicken, veggies, and soup without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing everything gently but thoroughly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right balance of broth, soup, and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with turkey for a Thanksgiving twist using leftover meat.
- Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella under the stuffing for gooey richness.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms or green beans to boost veggies and add texture.
- Toss in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken or baked chicken breast)
- 1 package (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing cubes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ½ cup onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake. So, from start to finish, plan for roughly 45 minutes to get this delicious, comforting dish ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Chicken Casserole:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, diced celery, diced onion, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir everything well until mixed evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, adjusting the amounts to your taste.
3. Spread the Mixture:
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to form the base of the casserole.
4. Add the Stuffing Topping:
In a separate bowl, toss the stuffing mix with the melted butter until the pieces are fully coated. Then sprinkle the buttered stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture. For extra flavor and a pretty look, sprinkle a little more dried thyme on top.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:
Bake the dish uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the stuffing is beautifully golden brown and crunched up, and the casserole is bubbly along the edges.
6. Cool Slightly and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your warm, tasty Chicken and Stuffing Bake!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw frozen cooked chicken overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then chop and proceed as usual.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep the stuffing crispy, or microwave for convenience (though the topping may soften).
Can I Substitute the Stuffing Mix?
Yes! You can use any boxed stuffing mix you like, or make your own with bread cubes and herbs. For gluten-free options, there are GF stuffing mixes available or you can use gluten-free bread cubes.
