There’s something so satisfying about a casserole that brings together tender chicken, creamy soups, and that golden, crunchy stuffing on top. This Chicken & Stuffing Casserole hits all the right notes: warmth, comfort, and a handful of nostalgic flavors that feel like a hug on a plate. Whenever I scoop into that bubbling goodness and hear the gentle crackle of the stuffing crust, it takes me back to lazy Sunday afternoons with family gathered around the kitchen table. Each bite offers a creamy, savory center and a lightly crisp bite above, making it the perfect recipe to anchor any meal or to celebrate the simple joys of home cooking.
I’ll never forget the first time I made this casserole for my college friends during finals week. Sleep-deprived and running on coffee, we all needed a hearty dish that could be prepped quickly yet feel like a special treat. Thirty minutes later, the whole dorm caught wind of that delicious scent wafting through the hallways, and before I knew it, plates were piled high and textbooks were temporarily abandoned. Since then, this recipe has become my go-to for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and holiday leftovers—especially when we swap in turkey for chicken after Thanksgiving. It’s beginner-friendly, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable. Plus, it serves up to six hungry folks with ease and clocks in at around 400 calories per serving, making it both indulgent and reasonable. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s break down everything you need to make this cozy, crowd-pleasing classic.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN & STUFFING CASSEROLE
To make this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole shine, each ingredient plays its own part in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the savory depth of cream soups to the buttery crunch of the stuffing topping, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each element matters.
- Cooked chicken
Provides the star protein of the dish with tender morsels that absorb the creamy sauce. Using pre-cooked chicken speeds up prep time and guarantees even pieces throughout the casserole.
- Stuffing mix
Acts as the golden, crispy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft filling beneath. Its seasoned breadcrumb base delivers extra savory notes and texture.
- Cream of chicken soup
Adds a rich, smooth base with concentrated chicken flavor. It helps bind all the ingredients together for a luscious interior.
- Cream of mushroom soup
Infuses an earthy undertone and creamy consistency, deepening the overall savory profile.
- Chicken broth
Thins out the soups just enough to create a saucy mixture without becoming too watery. It boosts the chicken flavor and ensures every bite is moist.
- Milk
Lightens the texture of the soup blend, making the filling silky and slightly milky in richness.
- Butter (melted)
Brings that irresistible buttery flavor to the stuffing mix and helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Frozen mixed vegetables
A colorful trio of peas, carrots, and corn adds sweetness, nutrition, and a pop of color to the casserole.
- Garlic powder
Delivers a subtle garlic kick that rounds out the savory notes without overpowering the creamy base.
- Onion powder
Offers gentle onion flavor that marries well with the cream soups and enhances overall depth.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning—adjust to taste to balance the creaminess and bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN & STUFFING CASSEROLE
Before you dive in, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven so it’s ready when the casserole is assembled. This recipe flows quickly once you start, and having everything at arm’s reach will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the ideal temperature while you assemble the casserole.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous.
3. Add the diced chicken and frozen mixed vegetables to the soup base. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until every piece of chicken and veggie is well coated in the creamy sauce.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix following the package instructions, substituting the called-for water with the melted butter for extra richness.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the dish and spread it into an even layer.
6. Spread the prepared stuffing over the top of the chicken mixture, ensuring complete coverage for a uniform golden crust.
7. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil carefully and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the stuffing is lightly golden and the casserole is piping hot throughout.
9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make slicing easier.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN & STUFFING CASSEROLE
Once your Chicken & Stuffing Casserole emerges from the oven with a perfectly golden topping, you’ll want to serve it in ways that enhance its comforting qualities. Here are some friendly ideas to elevate your presentation, bring out complementary flavors, and create a meal that feels both nourishing and special for family or guests.
- Family-Style Centerpiece
Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish on a trivet in the middle of the table. Encourage everyone to help themselves, passing around stoneware plates and letting the warmth of the dish keep the topping crisp throughout the meal. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Individual Ramekins
For a more elegant touch, portion the casserole into small oven-safe ramekins before baking. This method ensures each guest gets a perfectly sized serving with crisp edges on every ramekin. After baking, let them rest, then top each with a light sprinkle of smoked paprika or grated Parmesan for added flair.
- Crisp Green Salad on the Side
Balance the rich creaminess with a crisp mixed greens salad dressed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Toss in thinly sliced red onion, cucumber ribbons, and sunflower seeds for crunch. The acidity and crunch of the salad provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty casserole.
- Warm Garlic Dinner Rolls
Pair with soft, homemade dinner rolls brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parsley. Pop them in the oven for the last 10 minutes of the casserole’s baking time so they emerge hot and golden. The rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce and crumbs from the stuffing top.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN & STUFFING CASSEROLE
If you have leftovers (and trust me, you might), proper storage ensures you can savor every bit of that comforting casserole without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you plan to eat it in the next few days or freeze it for later, here’s how to keep your Chicken & Stuffing Casserole tasting its best.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed, airtight container. Keeping air out prevents the top from becoming soggy. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Freeze in Portion-Sized Containers
For longer storage, divide the cooled casserole into meal-sized portions and place each in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty resealable bag. Press out excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Gently for Best Texture
To retain that crispy stuffing top, reheat single servings on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, uncovered. This method revives the crunch while warming the filling evenly. For microwave reheating, cover loosely to prevent drying, but know the topping may soften.
- Avoid Moisture Build-Up
If you notice condensation inside your storage container, place a folded paper towel on top of the casserole before sealing. The towel absorbs excess moisture, keeping the stuffing from turning gummy.
CONCLUSION
Reflecting on this Chicken & Stuffing Casserole, it’s clear why it has become such a beloved staple in home cooking. From its ease for beginner cooks to the heartwarming way it brings people together, each spoonful offers layers of creamy soups, tender chicken, sweet peas and carrots, and that irresistible blanket of buttery stuffing. Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share at special gatherings, this casserole ticks all the boxes: quick assembly, familiar flavors, and simple techniques that deliver beautiful results. With a total preparation time of 15 minutes, cooking time of 40 minutes, and a brief 5-minute rest before serving, you can take a busy evening and make it feel like a cozy family feast without sacrificing precious time.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference—tuck it into your recipe binder or pin it to your kitchen board. You’ll also find a FAQ section below where I answer common questions about ingredient substitutions, reheating tips, and more detailed troubleshooting. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment with your modifications, any joyful stories from your own kitchen, or questions if you need help along the way. Your feedback helps make this recipe even better and builds a community of home cooks sharing tips and encouragement. Happy cooking!
Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Description
This delightful casserole marries tender chicken with savory stuffing and creamy soups, topped with golden-brown stuffing. Perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir until well blended and smooth.
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Add the diced chicken and mixed vegetables to the soup mixture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.
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In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions, using the melted butter instead of water.
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In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, pour in the chicken and vegetable mixture, spreading it evenly.
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Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
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Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffing is lightly golden and the casserole is heated through.
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Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped onions or celery to the chicken mixture.
- Substitute different vegetables as per your preference.
- Leftover turkey can be used in place of chicken, especially after holiday gatherings.
