If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the best of savory chicken and classic stuffing together, this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Juicy chicken breasts baked under a creamy, tangy topping and a golden, buttery stuffing crust make for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s effortless to prepare yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that everyone at the table will adore. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe shines as a satisfying centerpiece that’s as simple as it is scrumptious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe, you’ll just need a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but essential to achieving its mouthwatering flavor and comforting texture. Each thing on the list plays its part, from the tender chicken breasts to the creamy, tangy topping and that irresistible buttery stuffing crust.
- 4 large chicken breasts: These provide the hearty, protein-packed base for the dish, cooked until juicy and tender.
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions: Adds an underlying sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a warm, savory note without overpowering the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives a mild hint of spice, balancing the creamy layers beautifully.
- 6 ounces stove top stuffing mix: The star of the recipe’s topping, creating that beloved crunchy, buttery crust.
- 1½ cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful without being too salty or greasy.
- 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy richness that ties all the flavors together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and smooth texture to the soup layer.
- 4 tablespoons butter, cubed: Scattered on top of the stuffing to create a gorgeous golden crust and boost the indulgence factor.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
The first step is setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken thoroughly while allowing the stuffing topping to crisp up nicely without drying out the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the baking dish
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish generously with butter or use a non-stick spray. This simple prep step ensures the bake won’t stick, making cleanup easier and helping the bottom and sides brown just right.
Step 3: Season the chicken
Arrange your chicken breasts evenly across the dish. Then sprinkle the garlic powder, dried minced onions, and ground black pepper over the chicken. This seasoning trio infuses the meat with flavor that’s both aromatic and cozy, setting a delicious foundation.
Step 4: Make the stuffing mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the stove top stuffing mix with the low sodium chicken broth. Use a fork to fluff and mix until it’s just combined — you want a moist, textured stuffing that holds together but won’t be soggy.
Step 5: Mix creamy topping
In a separate small bowl, stir together the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth. This creamy layer will meld the chicken and stuffing, adding moisture and a luscious tang that keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
Step 6: Layer the bake
Evenly spread the creamy soup and sour cream mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts. This layer helps keep the chicken juicy and creates a rich backdrop for the stuffing topping.
Step 7: Add the stuffing
Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture on top of the creamy layer and around the chicken breasts, making sure it’s distributed evenly for consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 8: Top with butter
Scatter the cubed butter over the stuffing. As the bake cooks, this butter melts and helps develop a beautifully golden crust that’s packed with buttery goodness and irresistible aroma.
Step 9: Bake
Place your casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The key is to cook until the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally for safe, juicy meat. During this time, the stuffing crisps up and the whole dish melds into a comforting, delicious meal.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or thyme match wonderfully with this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe. They add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich, creamy flavors. A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan can elevate it even further if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
For sides, consider something green and vibrant to balance the dish’s richness—steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp mixed green salad all complement beautifully. Classic cranberry sauce or a tart apple chutney can also bring a sweet-tart contrast that livens up the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this chicken stuffing bake directly from the casserole for a rustic family-style meal. For a creative twist, plate individual portions alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, then drizzle a bit of the pan juices or gravy over the top to tie everything together visually and flavor-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you probably will, because this dish is that good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making the perfect next-day lunch or dinner ready to enjoy.
Freezing
This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe actually freezes quite well. After baking, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes, to keep the chicken moist and the stuffing crispy. Microwaving is possible but can make the stuffing a bit soggy, so oven reheating is ideal whenever you have the time.
FAQs
Can I use different types of stuffing mix for this Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While the classic stove top stuffing mix works perfectly, you can experiment with different flavors like herb-seasoned, cornbread, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust liquid amounts for consistency.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They stay juicy and add richer flavor, though you might need to adjust the baking time slightly since thighs can take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or keto-friendly?
To make it dairy-free, swap the sour cream for a non-dairy substitute and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup. For keto, select a low-carb stuffing alternative or create your own with keto-friendly bread. The key is maintaining that creamy and flavorful balance.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit before you remove the dish from the oven. The juices will also run clear when you cut into the chicken.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute prep.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is one of those magical dishes that turns simple, everyday ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal everyone loves. Its creamy layers, buttery crunch, and tender chicken make it a true comfort food winner. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s just as rewarding to make as it is to eat, and it might just become your new favorite go-to dinner!
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Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and hearty casserole perfect for a quick family dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned and topped with a creamy mixture of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, then covered with a flavorful stove top stuffing and dotted with butter for a golden, crispy crust. Baked to perfection, this easy one-dish meal combines tender chicken with savory stuffing all in one dish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 large chicken breasts (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Stuffing Mixture
- 6 ounces stove top stuffing mix
- 1½ cups low sodium chicken broth
Creamy Topping
- 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the baking dish: Generously grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the chicken and stuffing from sticking during baking.
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with garlic powder, dried minced onions, and ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make the stuffing mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the stove top stuffing mix with the low sodium chicken broth. Gently fluff with a fork until thoroughly combined and set aside.
- Mix creamy topping: In a separate small bowl, stir together the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the bake: Evenly spread the creamy soup and sour cream mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the casserole dish.
- Add the stuffing: Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture on top of the creamy layer, spreading it evenly over and around the chicken breasts.
- Top with butter: Scatter the cubed butter pieces over the stuffing to add richness and help create a golden crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated and reheated for quick meals.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the stuffing mixture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, particularly salt, since some broths and soups contain sodium.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
