Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole – A Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Classic

When you’re craving something warm, creamy, and satisfying — this Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is your answer. This timeless dish combines tender chunks of chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy, comforting sauce baked until golden and bubbly.

It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a casserole dish. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or needing a fuss-free potluck recipe, this casserole delivers every time. Plus, it comes together with pantry staples and minimal prep — no chopping required.

With a buttery stuffing topping and creamy chicken filling, it’s a one-dish wonder that tastes like home.

Ingredients Overview

This casserole relies on simple, classic ingredients that come together quickly and bake beautifully.

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken works best. Breast meat keeps it lean, while thigh meat adds extra flavor.

• Boxed Stuffing Mix: Adds seasoned bread cubes with herbs and savory flavors. Stove Top is a popular choice, but any brand will do.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Forms the creamy base. You can use homemade or canned condensed soup (undiluted). Cream of mushroom or cream of celery are tasty alternatives.

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds tang and richness to the filling while balancing the saltiness of the stuffing mix.

• Chicken Broth: Helps moisten the stuffing and adds savory depth. Low-sodium broth is ideal to control saltiness.

• Butter: For richness and to help brown the stuffing topping.

• Optional Add-Ins:

  • Frozen peas, green beans, or corn

  • Shredded cheddar for a cheesy version

  • Chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and butter alternatives.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and cream soup.

• Low-Fat: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cream soup.

• Add Veggies: Stir in 1–2 cups of cooked or thawed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.

• Make It Cheesy: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a melty twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Make the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions but reduce the liquid slightly to keep the topping crisp.

Typically:

• Bring 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1/4 cup butter to a boil.

• Stir in 6 oz (1 box) stuffing mix.

• Cover and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• Optional: 1 cup cooked veggies or 1/2 cup shredded cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix until well combined and creamy.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Top with the prepared stuffing, spreading it gently to cover the filling. Avoid pressing down too hard — a looser topping crisps up better.

5. Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbling and the stuffing is golden on top.

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken and set slightly.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for post-holiday leftovers.

• Freeze It: Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

• Add Crunch: Stir in French-fried onions or crushed crackers to the topping for texture.

• Portion for Meal Prep: Bake in smaller containers for grab-and-go lunches.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Side Dishes: Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad.

• Bread: Buttery dinner rolls or cornbread.

• Occasions: Family weeknight dinners, potlucks, holiday leftovers, or cozy Sunday suppers.

It’s especially popular during fall and winter months when comfort food calls.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is rich and satisfying — a little goes a long way. Each serving provides:

• Protein: From chicken and sour cream.

• Carbs: From the stuffing mix, perfect for energy and satiety.

• Optional Veggies: Adding frozen or fresh vegetables increases fiber and vitamins.

To lighten it up:

• Use light sour cream and cream soup.

• Choose whole wheat stuffing mix.

• Add more vegetables and serve with a large salad.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make chicken and stuffing casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish (without baking), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze the assembled casserole (unbaked) tightly wrapped. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q3: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Q4: What vegetables go well in this casserole?
Frozen peas, corn, green beans, broccoli, or carrots work beautifully. Just thaw and drain before adding.

Q5: How do I make the casserole less salty?
Use low-sodium broth, low-sodium cream soup, and unsalted butter to better control the overall salt content.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Double the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish or two 9×13-inch pans.

Q7: What if my stuffing is too wet?
Use slightly less broth next time or spread the stuffing in a thinner layer to encourage crisping. You can also uncover and broil for the last 2–3 minutes to dry it out slightly.

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