This Chicken And Stuffing Casserole brings together juicy chicken, tasty veggies, and fluffy stuffing in one hearty dish. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to throw together—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it makes great leftovers, which is a win-win for busy days. Who doesn’t love a good casserole? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. If you prefer, turkey can be a great swap too!
Stuffing Mix: While seasoned stuffing mix is traditional, you can make your own by using bread cubes seasoned with herbs. This gives you control over flavors and seasoning levels.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re looking for a lighter option, make your own creamy sauce using flour, chicken broth, and milk. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup works well if you want a different twist.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh veggies like green beans or bell peppers, just make sure to sauté them a bit first for tenderness.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess! If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut milk or a cashew cream for a similar texture.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Vegetables?
The vegetables need to blend well into the casserole. I recommend sautéing the diced onion and celery in a skillet with a bit of butter for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. This step builds flavor and helps incorporate them smoothly into the dish.
- Chop the onion and celery into small, even pieces.
- Heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat in a skillet.
- Add the veggies and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Let them cool slightly before adding them to the chicken mixture.
How to Make Chicken And Stuffing Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 package (about 6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix (classic or herb-flavored)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.), thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning or dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Time Needed:
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. So you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal to whip up any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, diced onion, diced celery, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
3. Assemble in the Casserole Dish:
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is delicious!
4. Prepare the Stuffing:
Next, follow the package instructions to prepare the stuffing mix. If you want to make it extra flavorful, substitute the butter and broth amounts with the melted butter you already made. Mix it until it’s moist and ready for the top layer.
5. Add the Stuffing Layer:
Evenly sprinkle the prepared stuffing mixture over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture in your casserole dish. This will create a lovely, crispy top when baked.
6. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. You want the stuffing to be golden brown and crispy on top, and for everything to be heated through.
7. Cool & Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to dig in! Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, comforting Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with loved ones!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this casserole. Just shred or chop it the same way you would the chicken for a delicious holiday-inspired dish.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version using 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 1/2 cup of milk. Whisk these together in a small saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure that the cream of chicken soup or any broth you choose is also gluten-free. You can find many options available in stores now!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if it goes into the oven cold.
