This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish that brings comfort and smiles. It features juicy chicken mixed with soft, fluffy stuffing, all baked until golden.
I love how the flavors all mix together, making every bite a cozy hug! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or even turkey if you have it. If you’re vegetarian, consider using a plant-based chicken substitute or hearty mushrooms for texture.
Stuffing Mix: A seasoned stuffing mix makes this dish quick and flavorful. If you prefer homemade, use cubed bread mixed with broth, herbs, and spices. Gluten-free bread can also work for a gluten-free option.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and savoriness to the casserole. Vegetable broth is a great option if you’re vegetarian, or you can easily make your own broth if you have the time.
Celly and Onion: These are classic aromatics that add great flavor. You can swap celery with bell peppers for a different twist, or use leeks instead of onions for a milder taste.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Golden Topping?
Getting that delightful golden topping is all about proper baking and broiling techniques. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by baking the casserole uncovered to allow moisture to escape, promoting browning on top.
- If the topping isn’t golden after the initial baking time, switch to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving—this helps flavors settle and makes serving easier.
How to Make Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 (12 oz) package seasoned stuffing mix (or about 6 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 25-30 minutes to bake. So, overall, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to delicious comfort food!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take your 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little bit of butter to make sure nothing sticks!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add in the diced onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft—this should take about 5 minutes. They should smell wonderful!
3. Mixing Everything Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, the sautéed onion and celery, and the stuffing mix. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together evenly.
4. Adding the Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth over the mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to gently toss everything again until all the stuffing is moistened. Season this mix with black pepper and dried thyme if you choose to use it. The thyme adds a nice flavor, but it’s totally optional!
5. Transferring to the Casserole Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is delicious!
6. Baking the Casserole:
Pop it into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and everything is heated through nicely.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
When it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to make it look fancy! Serve it warm, and watch everyone enjoy this comforting dish.
It’s perfect as a filling meal on its own, or you can pair it with a green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete dinner. Enjoy your homemade Chicken & Stuffing Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. For quicker thawing, place the frozen chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Once thawed, cook it as directed in your recipe.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave, and consider adding a splash of chicken broth or water for moisture to prevent it from drying out.
What Can I Serve with Chicken & Stuffing Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. You can also serve it with cranberry sauce for a nice flavor contrast!
