This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that people adore! It has tender chicken layered with delicious stuffing, making it a perfect comfort meal.
I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! It’s a hit at family dinners, and there’s always room for seconds. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, shredded turkey works great too!
Stuffing Mix: Herb-flavored stuffing is a classic choice. If you have gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free stuffing mix can be used. Alternatively, homemade bread cubes with herbs will give a fresh taste.
Celery and Onion: These add wonderful flavor, but feel free to swap them out for other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Both are great substitutes depending on your taste or what you have on hand!
Sour Cream: For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy flavor and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, plant-based sour cream works perfectly too.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar adds a nice richness, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or omit it altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for the Casserole?
Achieving the right texture in your Chicken & Stuffing Casserole involves a few simple steps. Make sure your stuffing is well-moistened but not soggy. This combination makes it fluffy and tender.
- Start by ensuring you sauté the celery and onion until soft, enhancing their flavors before adding them to the chicken.
- When mixing the ingredients, add enough chicken broth to ensure the stuffing is moist but not swimming in broth.
- Let the casserole bake until the top is golden brown, which adds a beautiful crunch. This also helps to set the combination inside.
- Let it rest after baking for a few minutes. This extra step allows the casserole to firm up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Enjoy this comforting dish that’s bound to be a family favorite!
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 package (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, making a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready for the family in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the diced celery and onion. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, the sautéed celery and onion, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and half of the chicken broth. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste!
4. Add the Stuffing:
Next, gently stir in the stuffing mix and the remaining chicken broth. Make sure the stuffing is evenly moistened, so give it a good stir!
5. Optional Cheese:
If you’d like a creamier texture, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point. It adds delicious flavor!
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks consistently.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is nicely heated through.
8. Serve & Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Let it Rest:
Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes it easier to serve.
Enjoy this hearty and comforting Chicken & Stuffing Casserole as a perfect dinner for the whole family!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this casserole. Just shred or chop it similarly to the chicken, and follow the recipe as usual.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If it’s coming straight from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt works great and adds a nice tang. You can also use mayonnaise or even cottage cheese for a different texture!
