Get ready for the ultimate comfort food classic that’s incredibly simple to make! This easy chicken and stuffing casserole brings together tender chicken and a savory, crunchy topping in one delicious dish. It’s a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights, using readily available pantry ingredients. You’ll love how quickly you can prepare this hearty meal, making it a go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This delightful chicken and stuffing casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug! Here are a few reasons why it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:
- It’s a truly simple, one-dish wonder, minimizing cleanup.
- Every bite offers a satisfying, hearty flavor that everyone enjoys.
- You likely already have most ingredients in your pantry.
- The recipe is highly customizable to suit your family’s preferences.
- It’s a perfect solution for those busy weeknights when time is short.
- This casserole is excellent for meal prepping, giving you delicious leftovers.
Ingredients
Gather your simple ingredients to create this comforting chicken and stuffing casserole:
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins: The star protein of our casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup: Creates a rich, creamy base.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup: Enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps achieve a smooth, pourable sauce consistency.
- 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix: Forms the savory, crispy topping.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Moistens the stuffing and forms a delicious gravy.
- Fresh or dried parsley: An optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
Recognized as a versatile and nutritious food, chicken is a complete protein source that offers essential amino acids and supports muscle health.
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with this recipe! Instead of tenderloins, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Feel free to enhance the chicken’s flavor with garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of paprika. For a lighter option, choose low-sodium cream soups and chicken broth. You can swap cream of celery or chicken soup with cream of mushroom or any other “cream of” variety you enjoy. While Stove Top is classic, any boxed stuffing mix works, or even a homemade breadcrumb-based topping. For a richer sauce, use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk. Boost the nutrition by mixing in frozen mixed vegetables, corn, or broccoli florets.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this easy recipe.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Or an 11×7 inch dish works perfectly.
- Large mixing bowl: For whisking the creamy sauce.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Aluminum foil: To cover the casserole during baking.
- Meat thermometer: For checking chicken doneness safely.
Instructions
Let’s create this delightful chicken and stuffing casserole together! This step-by-step guide makes it super easy for beginners.
- Prepare your oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray, then set it aside.
- Cut the chicken: Cut the 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Place these pieces directly into the prepared baking dish.
- Season the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Whisk the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the 10.5-ounce can of cream of celery soup, the 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, and 1/4 cup milk until you achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Pour over chicken: Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken pieces in the baking dish.
- Spread the sauce: Use a spoon or spatula to gently spread the creamy mixture, ensuring all the chicken is covered. This creates a flavorful, moist base for the casserole.
- Add stuffing: Evenly sprinkle the entire 6-ounce box of Stove Top chicken stuffing mix over the creamy chicken layer. Try to get an even coating for uniform browning.
- Moisten stuffing with broth: Pour 1 1/2 cups chicken broth carefully over the dry stuffing mix. Take a moment to ensure that all of the stuffing crumbles are moistened by the broth. This prevents dry patches and helps create a delicious gravy.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes.
- Uncover and brown: Carefully remove the foil from the dish. Continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to allow the stuffing topping to lightly brown and crisp up. Remember that oven times can vary; the chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. For optimal food safety, the USDA provides clear guidelines on the safe minimum internal temperature for all poultry.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish your cooked casserole with fresh or dried parsley, if desired. Serve immediately, making sure to scoop up some of the rich gravy from the bottom of the dish to drizzle over each serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Achieve perfection every time with these simple tips for your chicken and stuffing casserole:
- Cut chicken pieces into similar sizes for even cooking; this prevents some pieces from drying out while others finish.
- Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Ensure every bit of the dry stuffing mix is moistened by the broth to avoid hard, uncooked spots.
- Adjust the amount of chicken broth slightly to achieve your desired gravy consistency; more broth means more gravy.
- Avoid overbaking the casserole to keep the chicken tender and juicy, rather than tough.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving for an enhanced, brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This versatile casserole pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it alongside crisp steamed green beans or a simple garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier spread, mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables are fantastic companions.
- Fluffier Stuffing: For a lighter, fluffier stuffing texture, prepare the stuffing separately according to package directions, then spoon it over the chicken before baking.
- Added Vegetables: Easily boost your veggie intake! Stir in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables, corn, or broccoli florets with the chicken before adding the soup mixture.
- Different Meats: This recipe is flexible. Try it with cooked leftover turkey, diced ham, or even shredded pork instead of chicken.
Storage & Freezing
This casserole is excellent for leftovers!
- Store any remaining chicken and stuffing casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition Information
Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and exact ingredient amounts used. This information is provided for general guidance.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to put raw chicken in a casserole?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to put raw chicken in a casserole. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F during baking.
Do I have to use chicken tenderloins?
No, you don’t have to use tenderloins. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, also work great.
Can I use other stuffing?
Absolutely! While Stove Top is convenient, you can use any other boxed stuffing brand or even a homemade breadcrumb-based stuffing.
Can I make a fluffier stuffing?
Yes, for a fluffier topping, prepare the stuffing separately according to its package instructions. Then, spread it over the chicken mixture.
Can I add some vegetables?
Certainly! Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, corn, or broccoli florets with the chicken for added nutrients and flavor. You can also serve it with a side of fresh vegetables.
Can I use other soup options?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other cream soups like cream of mushroom or even a blend of different “cream of” varieties you enjoy.
I don’t have an 11×7-inch baking dish, what do I do?
You can use a 9×13-inch baking dish instead. The casserole layers will be a bit thinner, but it will still bake beautifully.
How to store leftovers?
Store your leftover chicken and stuffing casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This easy chicken and stuffing casserole delivers incredible comfort and flavor with minimal effort. It’s a truly delicious and customizable meal that perfectly fits any busy schedule. Don’t hesitate to make this hearty, satisfying dish a regular feature on your family dinner rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this wonderful recipe tonight!