Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe

If you're in search of an easy-to-make, hearty, and comforting meal, then you've come to the right place! This Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe is the perfect go-to dinner for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It's packed with tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a delicious creamy sauce that ties everything together. By the time you're done reading this article, you'll be able to make this delicious dish step by step and even customize it to your own taste. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is a must-try. Read on to discover how you can whip up this classic dish and wow your guests with ease!

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What is a “Chicken & Stuffing Bake”?

A Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a delicious casserole-style dish that combines tender chicken breasts, seasoned stuffing mix, and a creamy sauce made from ingredients like cream of chicken soup or sour cream. It’s often baked to a golden-brown perfection in the oven, creating a warm, bubbly, and savory meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a family dinner at home.

Now, let’s move on to the ingredients list so you can gather everything you need before getting started.

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Ingredients List for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless): 4 medium-sized chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces or left whole depending on your preference. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
• Stuffing Mix: 1 box (around 6 oz) of your favorite stuffing mix (classic seasoned or herb flavors work best).
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for that creamy texture.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup to add richness and tang to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup to moisten the stuffing and add flavor.
• Butter: 3 tablespoons to melt and drizzle over the stuffing mix.
• Vegetables (optional): 1 cup of diced carrots, celery, or frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon each or to taste).
• Shredded Cheese (optional): 1 cup of cheddar or mozzarella to sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy touch.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few simple substitutions and variations you can try to suit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, you can use chicken thighs or even leftover turkey. You can also use tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Stuffing Options: Gluten-free stuffing mix works just as well if you’re avoiding gluten. You can also make your own stuffing from scratch using stale bread, herbs, and seasonings.
• Cream Soup Alternatives: If you don’t want to use canned cream of chicken soup, try making your own homemade version with chicken broth, milk, and a bit of flour or cornstarch as a thickener. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
• Add-Ins: Add diced vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or broccoli to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the bake. For a richer flavor, you can also add cooked bacon or ham pieces.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free sour cream substitute and omit the cheese if you’re lactose-intolerant.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of preparing this delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking—this recipe is beginner-friendly, and you’ll have a satisfying dish in no time!

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How to Cook Chicken & Stuffing Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly once it’s assembled and placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of chicken broth and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir everything together until the stuffing is well-coated and moist but not too soggy. Set this aside for now.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, simply shred or chop it into smaller pieces.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In another bowl, mix together 1 can of cream of chicken soup and 1 cup of sour cream until smooth and well-blended. This will serve as the base for your casserole, adding creaminess and flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the seasoned chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish. Then, pour the creamy soup and sour cream mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Add the Stuffing Layer

Next, spoon the prepared stuffing mixture over the top of the chicken and creamy sauce, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire dish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, you’ll only need about 25-30 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 8: (Optional) Add Cheese

If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt into a gooey, golden topping.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the chicken: Unseasoned chicken can result in a bland casserole. Make sure to season your chicken well before assembling the dish.
• Over or undercooking: If the chicken is cut too large, it may not cook through in time. Alternatively, if you leave it in the oven too long, the stuffing may dry out. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness.
• Using too much liquid in the stuffing: While you want the stuffing to be moist, adding too much broth can make it soggy. Add just enough liquid for the stuffing to absorb but remain fluffy.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your Chicken & Stuffing Bake, you want to strike the right balance between flavor and presentation. Here’s how you can do just that!

How to Serve Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Portion Size: Use a large spoon to scoop out generous servings of chicken and stuffing for each person. This dish pairs well with simple sides like green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal. Alternatively, you can transfer portions to individual plates for a more elegant presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Stuffing Bake

• Garnish: Add a pop of color by garnishing the top of the casserole with fresh chopped parsley or green onions. This adds freshness to the dish and makes it look more appetizing.
• Cheese Topping: If you choose to add cheese, let it bubble and brown slightly for an eye-catching golden crust. You can also place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes for an extra-crispy top.

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Chicken & Stuffing Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to account for the cold casserole.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole is freezer-friendly. Assemble the dish and freeze it (unbaked) for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken thoroughly before baking to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Q: What side dishes go well with Chicken & Stuffing Bake?
A: Some great sides include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, green beans, or a simple salad.

Q: Can I use homemade stuffing instead of boxed?
A: Yes! Just prepare your homemade stuffing and use it in place of the boxed mix.

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Conclusion

There you have it—a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious Chicken & Stuffing Bake. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, and with the tips and variations included, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste. Whether you're making it for a cozy family dinner or a special event, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Try it out today, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal!

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