If you’re longing for a comforting, all-in-one meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce and wrapped in a perfectly baked stuffing topping, it’s the kind of dish that fills your home with inviting aromas and your belly with pure happiness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish brings simple ingredients together to create something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from infusing moisture and flavor to contributing to that irresistible golden topping.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless for tender, easy-to-cut portions that cook evenly.
- Stuffing mix: Any flavor works here, providing a crispy, savory crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
- Hot water: Used to hydrate the stuffing mix, making it soft enough to bake thoroughly yet still maintain texture.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that adds richness and depth of flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and silkiness to the sauce.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These simple spices bring savory warmth that elevates the dish effortlessly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce, balancing flavors perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a melty, cheesy layer that makes the bake even more comforting.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that brightens the final presentation and taste.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This sets the stage for a golden, evenly cooked bake and prevents sticking, so clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
Mix the stuffing with hot water in a bowl, then let it sit to absorb the liquid fully. This step ensures the stuffing is moist but not soggy, giving you that perfect crispy topping after baking.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smoothly incorporated. This sauce is what makes this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe so luscious and flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Arrange the chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Spread the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken, then top with the prepared stuffing mix. If you love extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a crowd-pleasing finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is golden and crisp. The foil keeps everything moist at first, while uncovering helps to create that beautiful crust.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let your Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes slicing easier. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley to your dish introduces a lovely color contrast and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. If you want to be a little adventurous, try a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of chopped chives for another layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
This bake is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad adds freshness and texture, creating a well-rounded plate that will satisfy any appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or making this dish for a special occasion, try dishing out individual portions in mini casserole dishes or cast-iron skillets. It adds charm and makes each serving feel extra special. Plus, the crispy edges on each portion are pure magic!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, these leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the dish but hold off on baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the chicken tender and the stuffing crispy, avoiding that dreaded soggy microwave effect.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using cooked chicken can shorten the baking time and still deliver amazing flavor. Just be sure to warm the dish through without drying out the chicken.
What stuffing flavor is best for this recipe?
Any classic herb or savory-flavored stuffing mix works well. Feel free to experiment with different flavors, like country-style or cornbread, to add your personal twist.
Can I make this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free cream soup alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream to keep it creamy while catering to dietary preferences.
Is it okay to add vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Chopped celery, mushrooms, or even some cooked spinach folded into the stuffing can enhance both nutrition and texture beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is truly a winner for anyone craving an easy yet impressive meal. From the creamy sauce to the crispy stuffing topping, every bite is pure comfort. I cannot recommend it enough—try it tonight, and watch it quickly become one of your go-to favorites in your dinner rotation.
Print
Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and easy casserole dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts topped with flavorful stuffing and a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Baked to golden perfection with melted cheddar cheese, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Stuffing
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 1/2 cups of hot water. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes until the stuffing absorbs the water completely and softens.
- Mix the Sauce: In another bowl, blend together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the greased baking dish. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Spread the softened stuffing evenly on top of the sauced chicken. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffing if using.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the bake rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use any flavor of stuffing mix you prefer, such as herb or cornbread, to customize the dish.
- For extra flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking (watch closely to prevent burning).
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead by assembling it and refrigerating before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
