If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together juicy chicken breasts nestled beneath a creamy, savory sauce and topped with perfectly toasted stuffing for a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Simple ingredients come together quickly for a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a go-to on busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and ensuring a hearty, satisfying dish that feels special without the fuss.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide juicy, tender protein that forms the dish’s star.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top): Adds that crispy, flavorful topping with herbs and texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy richness and keeps the chicken moist.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps thin the sauce just enough for perfect coverage.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Moistens the stuffing mix and infuses it with savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle kick of aromatic flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer appropriately.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful garnish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the chicken and stuffing won’t stick and everything bakes evenly. This sets the stage for a flawless casserole experience.
Step 2: Moisten the Stuffing Mix
In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth. Stir until the dry mix is just moistened; this ensures the stuffing bakes up tender yet crisp on top. Set this aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 3: Season and Arrange the Chicken
Season each boneless chicken breast well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These simple seasonings amplify the natural chicken flavor and complement the creamy sauce and stuffing. Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy. This luscious layer will keep the chicken moist during baking and infuse the dish with comforting flavor.
Step 5: Layer and Bake
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, then spread the moistened stuffing mix on top, covering the entire surface. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook gently and the flavors to marry.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is beautifully golden and crispy on top. This final step gives you that irresistible toasted crunch.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the bake for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm, and watch how everyone’s faces light up at the first bite.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley or finely chopped chives scattered over the top add not only color but a lovely fresh note that balances the creamy richness of the bake. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten up each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe with simple steamed green beans or roasted seasonal vegetables to keep things balanced. A crisp garden salad or even mashed potatoes makes a fantastic complement without overshadowing the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bake directly from the casserole dish for a cozy, family-style meal. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a drizzle of pan juices or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the presentation. For a festive touch, sprinkle toasted pecans or dried cranberries over the stuffing for added texture and a subtle sweet contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before covering tightly with foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to avoid drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring or turning halfway through for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a delicious twist, especially around the holidays. Just substitute the chicken with an equal amount of cooked turkey pieces.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even cooked beans, and use a vegetable broth-based stuffing mix. The creamy sauce can be made with a vegetarian cream soup alternative.
What type of stuffing mix works best?
Classic herb-flavored boxed stuffing mixes like Stove Top work perfectly for this recipe, adding savory herbs and a great texture contrast atop the creamy chicken layer.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish fully, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
The key is the creamy sauce that covers the chicken breasts during baking. Make sure not to skip the soup, sour cream, and milk mixture — it acts as a moisture lock, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe truly is a home-cooked treasure that combines simplicity with hearty flavors in one effortless casserole. If you’re looking for a fuss-free meal that feels like a special occasion every time, give this recipe a try. Trust me, it’s one you’ll want to keep in your recipe box forever.
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Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting and simple one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and baked under a creamy layer of sour cream and condensed soup, topped with flavorful stuffing mix that crisps up in the oven. Ready in 45 minutes and serving four, this dish combines moist, juicy chicken with a satisfying, flavorful crust for an effortless family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Stuffing
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for moistening stuffing)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to moisten the stuffing evenly and set it aside to absorb the broth.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth to create a rich, creamy topping.
- Assemble the bake: Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the arranged chicken breasts, covering them thoroughly.
- Add the stuffing topping: Evenly spread the moistened stuffing mix over the sauce layer, covering the chicken completely.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the baked dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- You can substitute any favorite stuffing mix if you prefer a different flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, consider using sour cream and milk alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
