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This comforting chicken and stuffing casserole blends tender shredded chicken with a creamy base and a crisp stuffing topping for a classic dish everyone will love. It’s straightforward to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or sharing at holiday gatherings.
I first made this on a chilly evening and found that it warmed up not just our plates but our spirits too. It quickly became a meal my family asks for again and again.
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: this brings protein and tenderness rotisserie chicken works beautifully for convenience
- Cream of chicken soup: adds creaminess and depth opt for a brand with simple ingredients when possible
- Sour cream or mayonnaise: provides richness and helps bind the casserole without heaviness
- Chicken broth: keeps the mixture moist and flavorful low sodium is a good choice to control salt
- Stuffing mix: the starring crispy topping traditional or cornbread varieties work well just ensure it is fresh
- Melted butter: gives the stuffing a golden, buttery crust and irresistible aroma
- Salt and pepper: essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a nine by thirteen-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large bowl, stir together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. This creamy base is what holds all the layers together.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring it forms a uniform layer that will support the stuffing on top.
- Add Stuffing:
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions but use a little less water than recommended so the topping does not become soggy. Spoon the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture. Drizzle the melted butter across the top to help achieve a nicely browned finish in the oven.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until you see a golden crispness on the top and bubbling around the edges signaling it’s cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set for better slicing and prevents it from being too hot to enjoy right away.
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My favorite ingredient here has to be the stuffing mix. It brings the classic cozy texture and flavor that makes this dish a true comfort food. One memorable time, my family gathered around this casserole after a snowy day, and it felt like a warm hug on a plate.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover casserole covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. You can also freeze portions wrapped securely for up to three months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter version, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt without sacrificing creaminess. For those with gluten sensitivities, choose a gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure the soup and broth are gluten-free as well. Mayonnaise can replace sour cream if you want a slightly different tang and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with simple steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for fresh balance. A side of cranberry sauce can brighten the plate and work especially well if you lean into a holiday variation with turkey. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the rich flavors nicely.
Pro Tips
- Toast the stuffing mix in the oven briefly before topping if you want an extra crunchy texture
- Do not over-saturate the stuffing with water it should be moist but not wet to keep crispiness when baked
- Letting the casserole rest after baking improves texture and makes serving easier without it falling apart
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, leftover turkey works wonderfully in this dish, adding a festive twist to the creamy, savory layers.
- → How do I prevent the stuffing from becoming soggy?
Use slightly less water than the package instructions when preparing the stuffing, ensuring a crisp topping after baking.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate it, then bake fresh when needed for convenience without compromising flavor.
- → Can I substitute sour cream with mayonnaise?
Yes, mayonnaise can be used instead of sour cream to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor in the base layer.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
Simple green vegetables, roasted root veggies, or a fresh salad complement the rich, creamy layers beautifully.