If there’s one dish that never fails to bring comfort, it’s a bubbling Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake fresh from the oven. With its golden breadcrumb topping, creamy chicken filling, and the savory aroma of herbs wafting through the kitchen, this simple one-pan meal captures the essence of cozy home cooking. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just craving a homestyle dinner that tastes like it took all afternoon, this casserole hits every mark — hearty, satisfying, and unbelievably easy to make.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing a fail-proof Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake, from the core ingredients to creative variations and time-saving tricks. But first, let’s take a moment to revisit where this beloved recipe all began — right around the dinner table.
For many families, Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a piece of home. I still remember the nights growing up when Mom would pull out her trusty casserole dish and a box of Stove Top stuffing mix after a long day. The kitchen would quickly fill with the scent of toasted breadcrumbs, creamy chicken, and those classic savory herbs that signaled dinner was almost ready.
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Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A cozy one-pan bake with creamy chicken, savory Stove Top stuffing, and a crispy golden topping, perfect for quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish
2. In a bowl combine cream of chicken soup sour cream salt pepper and herbs
3. Stir in shredded or canned chicken and optional frozen vegetables until coated
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared dish
5. Prepare stuffing mix according to box instructions using broth or water
6. Layer the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture
7. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden and crispy
8. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: bake
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 casserole slice
Keywords: easy chicken casserole, stuffing casserole, stovetop stuffing, chicken hotdish, comfort food, one-pan dinner, weeknight dinner, family meal
She usually made it on school nights when there wasn’t much time to cook from scratch, yet somehow, this simple recipe always felt like something special. A bag of frozen vegetables or a can of green beans might have been tossed in to stretch the meal, and the whole family would gather around, eagerly waiting for that first serving. It wasn’t fancy, but it was love on a plate.
That’s the beauty of Stove Top Stuffing Recipes Casseroles like this one—they take straightforward pantry staples and turn them into dishes that comfort the soul. The warm, crispy top contrasts perfectly with the creamy chicken filling underneath, creating a blend of textures and flavors that feel instantly nostalgic.
Over the years, what began as my mother’s go-to weeknight dinner has become one of my all-time favorite Easy Chicken Hotdish Recipes to make for my own family. Whether you use freshly cooked chicken, a rotisserie bird, or whip up a Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken when you’re short on time, the result is the same—a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and second helpings.
Why This Easy Chicken Hotdish Recipe Works Every Time
At its core, this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake is proof that simplicity wins. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something delicious. With just a few pantry staples—like Stove Top stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded or canned chicken—you can have dinner prepped and ready for the oven in minutes.
The magic lies in how these everyday items come together. The seasoned stuffing mix provides a buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling beneath. The soup and sour cream make the interior rich and comforting, while the chicken adds protein and heartiness. It’s the kind of recipe that works on a busy weeknight just as well as it does for Sunday dinner.
Another reason this Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken is a perennial favorite? It’s endlessly adaptable. You can switch up the flavors, toss in vegetables you have on hand, or adjust the creaminess to match your taste. There’s no stress, no overthinking—just a dependable, oven-ready meal that always delivers.
Building the Perfect Chicken and Stuffing Bake
The Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake starts with a handful of humble ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re making this classic for the first time or looking to perfect your version, the right combination of simple ingredients makes all the difference. Below, you’ll find the essentials for one of the most dependable Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipes out there.
| Ingredient | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 box (6 oz) Stove Top stuffing mix | The base that gives this dish its signature toasty, buttery crunch. Choose chicken or savory herb flavor for the best results. |
| 3 cups cooked or canned shredded chicken | The protein that keeps it hearty—perfect for using up leftovers, rotisserie, or even pantry-ready canned chicken. |
| 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup | Provides creamy richness and binds the filling together. Substitute with cream of mushroom for a deeper flavor. |
| ¾ cup sour cream | Adds tang and enhances the velvety texture of the filling. |
| 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional) | Adds color, nutrition, and a little bit of crunch. Try peas, carrots, or green beans. |
| ½ cup chicken broth or water | Keeps the stuffing moist without making it soggy. |
| Salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste | A final touch of seasoning brings all the flavors together. |
Ingredient tips and swaps:
- Chicken options: Freshly cooked, rotisserie, or Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken—they all work beautifully. If you’re using canned chicken, drain it well before stirring it into the mix.
- Stuffing mix: Many cooks swear by Stove Top, but any boxed stuffing with buttery breadcrumb cubes will work. For a homemade feel, try cornbread or savory herb flavors.
- Vegetable additions: Chopped broccoli, corn, or sautéed mushrooms add texture and a fresh pop of flavor.
- Dietary swaps: For a lighter version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or use a low-sodium soup base.
When it comes to Stovetop Casserole Recipes, the secret isn’t in fancy ingredients—it’s in how these everyday items blend into layers of crunchy and creamy comfort.
Step-by-Step Directions for Easy Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s build this cozy one-pan dinner. This step-by-step guide ensures success every time, whether you’re making it fresh for dinner or assembling it ahead for a quick bake later.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Combine the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and a few dashes of salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir in the shredded or canned chicken until evenly coated. If you’re adding frozen vegetables, fold them in now.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the creamy chicken mixture across the bottom of your prepared dish to form the flavorful foundation.
- Prepare the Stuffing Topping: Mix the dry stuffing with hot water or broth according to the box instructions. Once fluffed, spoon or spread it evenly across the chicken layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy on top and the filling bubbles gently around the edges.
| Baking Overview | Temperature | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheated oven | 375°F (190°C) | 30–35 minutes | Golden, crunchy top and creamy interior |
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the layers to set and makes scooping easier. Serve directly from the dish with a side of vegetables or salad for a complete, comforting meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips:
- Make ahead: Assemble up to a day before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to three months or freeze leftovers in portions. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
- Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to four days; the flavor improves overnight!
Variations and Serving Ideas for Stove Top Stuffing Recipes Casseroles
Creative Twists to Try Next Time
One of the best parts about Stove Top Stuffing Recipes Casseroles like this one is how flexible they are. Once you’ve mastered the classic version, it’s easy to experiment with ingredients and flavors to suit your taste—or simply use what’s already in your pantry. Try these fun variations to keep your Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake exciting every time.
- Swap Your Protein: Use turkey after the holidays for a cozy Easy Chicken Hotdish Recipe twist. Ham or cooked sausage offer a smoky kick, or skip meat entirely by doubling up on vegetables.
- Mix Up the Creamy Base: Substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for depth. Or sprinkle shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Flavor Boosters: Add ranch seasoning for zip, stir in cheese for a cheesy bake, or tuck cranberry sauce beneath the stuffing for a festive Thanksgiving vibe.
Each variation refreshes this classic while staying true to its comforting roots. The result? A versatile favorite that fits every craving and season.
Serving and Pairing Ideas to Complete the Meal
A well-rounded meal is about balance—and this Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake pairs beautifully with sides that complement its richness. From quick dinners to potlucks, these ideas make serving simple and satisfying.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Crisp green salad with vinaigrette | Brightens and balances the creamy casserole. |
| Roasted vegetables | Adds caramelized depth and staying power. |
| Cranberry relish or sauce | Brings sweetness and color to the plate. |
| Garlic bread or dinner rolls | Perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce. |
| Steamed broccoli with lemon butter | Simple, nutritious, and kid-approved. |
Serving Tips:
- Weeknight dinners: Serve family-style right from the casserole dish.
- Potlucks: Bake in disposable pans for easy transport and keep warm in the oven at 200°F until serving.
- Holidays: Garnish with parsley and add cranberry sides for a festive touch.
This Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Portion leftovers into containers for quick lunches or freezer meals—you’ll thank yourself later!
FAQs and Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipes
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Shredded turkey works perfectly and gives a delicious post-holiday twist.
How do I prevent the stuffing from getting soggy?
Don’t overhydrate the stuffing. Add just enough liquid to moisten it, and bake uncovered for a crisp top.
Can I prepare it ahead of time and bake later?
Absolutely. Assemble, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and bake when ready.
How long does Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken last in the fridge?
It keeps for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat portions in the microwave or entire dish in the oven until warm.
Can I freeze the unbaked casserole?
Yes. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight, then bake as directed.
Bringing It All Together
The Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Bake stands as a timeless comfort food—humble, hearty, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a homemade meal that feels special any night of the week.
Its adaptability is what makes it so loved. Change up the proteins, mix in different vegetables, or tweak the creaminess to make it your own. Stove Top Stuffing Recipes Casseroles like this endure because they’re practical, delicious, and bring families together.
At the end of the day, dishes like this remind us that comfort and connection often come from the simplest meals. So grab your casserole dish, preheat the oven, and make this Chicken Casserole With Canned Chicken the centerpiece of your next cozy dinner—you’ll be glad you did.
