Chicken and stuffing casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a rich, creamy base, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even holiday meals. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold evening or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of pantry staples like cooked chicken, boxed stuffing mix, cream soups, and some seasonings, you can create a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, reducing food waste while delivering a delicious and filling dish.
But where did this comforting classic come from? Let’s take a look at the origins of chicken and stuffing casserole and why it has stood the test of time as a beloved dish in many households.
The Origins of Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Casseroles have long been a staple in American homes, offering a convenient way to prepare hearty meals using a combination of protein, starch, and sauce baked together in one dish. The concept of combining meat and bread stuffing has roots in both European and American cuisine, with stuffing traditionally used to enhance the flavors of poultry dishes.
Stuffing itself dates back centuries, often made with breadcrumbs, herbs, and broth to create a flavorful side dish. Over time, creative home cooks found ways to incorporate stuffing into casseroles, blending it with chicken, turkey, or even beef to create filling, one-dish meals.
The modern version of chicken and stuffing casserole gained popularity in the mid-20th century, thanks to the rise of convenience foods such as canned cream soups and boxed stuffing mixes. These ingredients made it easier than ever to prepare a flavorful dish without the need for lengthy preparation. Today, this casserole remains a favorite due to its versatility, affordability, and rich, comforting taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this chicken and stuffing casserole. Here are just a few:
Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just simple layering and baking.
Uses Pantry Staples – Most ingredients are common household items.
Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later.
Perfect for Leftovers – Ideal for using up cooked chicken or turkey.
Customizable – Easily adapt to dietary preferences with ingredient swaps.
Easy Ingredients for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
A great dish starts with great ingredients. This chicken and stuffing casserole is made with simple, everyday pantry staples, making it both convenient and budget-friendly. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some optional variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Essential Ingredients
1. Chicken
- Amount: 3 cups cooked and shredded or diced chicken
- Options: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or boiled chicken. Even canned chicken works in a pinch!
- Substitutions: Swap with turkey if you have Thanksgiving leftovers.
2. Stuffing Mix
- Amount: 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix
- Options: Classic Stove Top stuffing works well, but homemade stuffing can be used for a richer flavor.
- Substitutions: Use a cornbread stuffing mix for a slightly sweeter twist.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup
- Amount: 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Options: This adds creaminess to the dish, but you can swap it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
4. Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Amount: 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Options: Adds depth of flavor, but if you don’t like mushrooms, use another can of cream of chicken instead.
5. Sour Cream
- Amount: ¾ cup
- Purpose: Provides tanginess and extra creaminess.
- Substitutions: Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a healthier option.
6. Milk
- Amount: ½ cup
- Purpose: Helps to loosen the creamy base and make it smooth.
- Substitutions: Use heavy cream for a richer texture or chicken broth for a lighter dish.
7. Chicken Broth
- Amount: 1 cup
- Purpose: Adds moisture and enhances the stuffing flavor.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth works well too.
8. Seasonings
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon) – Enhances depth of flavor.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds mild heat.
- Salt (optional) – Taste first, as the soups and stuffing mix already contain salt.
9. Cheese (Optional, but Recommended)
- Amount: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Purpose: Adds a rich, cheesy layer that makes the casserole even more indulgent.
- Substitutions: Mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend also work great.
10. Topping (Optional, for Extra Crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Enhances the crispiness of the topping.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs – Adds a crunchy contrast to the soft, creamy casserole.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Best Chicken for This Casserole
- Rotisserie Chicken – The easiest and quickest option. Pre-seasoned and juicy.
- Leftover Chicken or Turkey – A great way to use up leftovers from a previous meal.
- Boiled or Baked Chicken Breasts – Cook and shred them for a simple and healthy option.
- Canned Chicken – Works if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is preferred for better texture.
Stuffing Mix: Boxed vs. Homemade
While boxed stuffing mix is convenient, you can make homemade stuffing using:
Cubed bread (white, wheat, sourdough, or cornbread)
Butter and chicken broth for moisture
Seasonings like sage, thyme, and parsley
Sauteed onions and celery for extra flavor
If making from scratch, allow time for the flavors to blend before adding to the casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Chicken Stuffing Bake
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious chicken and stuffing casserole. It’s a simple, no-fail recipe that requires minimal prep and results in a comforting, hearty meal.
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Stuffing Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of warm chicken broth.
- Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the stuffing to absorb the liquid and soften.
- If using homemade stuffing, ensure it’s moist but not soggy.
📌 Tip: If you like crispy stuffing, don’t add too much broth—just enough to moisten it.
Make the Creamy Mixture
- In a separate large bowl, mix together:
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of mushroom (or celery) soup
¾ cup sour cream
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper - Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
📌 Tip: For an extra cheesy twist, stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture.
Assemble the Casserole
1️⃣ Layer the Chicken:
- Spread 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish.
2️⃣ Add the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly.
3️⃣ Top with Stuffing:
- Gently spread the moistened stuffing mix on top of the casserole, covering everything evenly.
4️⃣ (Optional) Add a Crispy Topping:
- If you want a crunchy, buttery topping, mix together:
✔️ ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
✔️ 2 tablespoons melted butter - Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffing layer.
📌 Tip: For extra richness, sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese on top before baking.
Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
📌 Tip: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set before serving.
Serving the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Serve this casserole warm with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Some great pairings include:
Steamed vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
Mashed potatoes – Extra creamy and buttery for added comfort
Cranberry sauce – If serving during the holidays
Side salad – A light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole
Variations of Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to Try
One of the best things about chicken and stuffing casserole is its versatility. Whether you want to add more flavor, make it healthier, or adjust it for dietary restrictions, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish. Below are some delicious variations to try!
1. Adding Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Nutrition
Incorporating vegetables into your casserole not only enhances its nutritional value but also adds texture and flavor.
Frozen or Fresh Vegetables: Mix in 1–2 cups of any of the following before baking:
- Green beans – Adds a classic holiday touch.
- Carrots – Slight sweetness that complements the stuffing.
- Peas – A great way to add color and a mild sweetness.
- Broccoli or Cauliflower – Pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mushrooms – Enhances the umami flavor of the dish.
Sautéed Onions and Celery:
- For a more homemade stuffing feel, sauté ½ cup chopped onions and ½ cup diced celery in butter before mixing with the stuffing.
📌 Tip: If using frozen vegetables, thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.
2. Making It Dairy-Free
If you’re lactose-intolerant or avoiding dairy, you can easily adjust this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Substitutions:
- Sour Cream: Use dairy-free sour cream or plain unsweetened coconut yogurt.
- Milk: Swap with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Cream Soups: Use dairy-free canned cream soups, or make a homemade version using blended cashews or coconut milk.
📌 Tip: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle the top with nutritional yeast or use dairy-free shredded cheese.
3. Gluten-Free Version
To make a gluten-free chicken and stuffing casserole, swap out the ingredients that contain gluten.
Substitutions:
- Stuffing Mix: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix, or make homemade stuffing with gluten-free bread.
- Cream Soups: Look for gluten-free cream of chicken/mushroom soup (available in most grocery stores).
- Cracker Topping: Use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflake crumbs.
📌 Tip: Double-check all ingredients, as some canned soups and stuffing mixes may contain hidden gluten.
4. Making It Extra Cheesy
If you love cheese, this variation is for you!
Cheesy Additions:
- Inside the casserole: Mix ½ to 1 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese into the creamy sauce.
- On top: Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of cheese on the stuffing before baking for a cheesy crust.
📌 Tip: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella adds the best gooey and rich flavor!
5. Adding Some Spice
Want to give your casserole a little heat? Try these spicy additions:
Seasoning Adjustments:
- Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor.
Spicy Toppings:
- Add sliced jalapeños on top before baking.
- Drizzle with hot sauce or buffalo sauce for a tangy kick.
📌 Tip: A few dashes of Tabasco or Sriracha mixed into the sauce can also add extra heat!
6. Making It a One-Pan Meal
Want to make this a complete meal in one dish? Add more ingredients to make it extra filling.
Protein Additions:
- Bacon: Add crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch.
- Sausage: Brown ½ pound of breakfast sausage and mix it into the stuffing for added heartiness.
Rice or Pasta:
- If you want a rice-based casserole, mix 1 cup of cooked white or brown rice into the creamy sauce before layering.
- For a pasta version, stir in 1½ cups of cooked pasta (like penne or elbow macaroni) before assembling the dish.
📌 Tip: If adding rice or pasta, reduce the amount of stuffing slightly to keep the right balance of textures.
7. Turning It into a Holiday Casserole
Want to make this dish holiday-ready? Try these festive touches:
Cranberries: Mix in ½ cup dried cranberries for a slightly sweet contrast.
Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for a crunchy, nutty finish.
Turkey Instead of Chicken: Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey instead of chicken for a holiday twist.
📌 Tip: Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for the ultimate festive flavor.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
A warm and hearty chicken and stuffing casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the entire dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday meal, here are some of the best side dishes that complement its rich and savory flavors.
1. Classic Vegetable Sides
Adding a fresh, colorful vegetable side helps balance out the creamy texture of the casserole.
Steamed Green Beans – A simple and healthy side that adds crunch and freshness.
Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet and slightly caramelized for a nice contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a crispy finish.
Sauteed Spinach or Kale – Lightly cooked with garlic and butter for a flavorful touch.
Corn on the Cob – A sweet and buttery addition that pairs perfectly with stuffing.
📌 Tip: Roasting or steaming vegetables helps keep their nutrients intact while adding natural sweetness and texture.
2. Comforting Starchy Sides
If you want to make the meal even more filling, consider pairing it with an extra serving of carbs.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the stuffing’s texture.
Rice Pilaf – Light and fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs for a subtle flavor.
Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – A perfect way to scoop up any extra creamy sauce.
Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness balances out the savory elements of the casserole.
📌 Tip: Try mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a fun twist!
3. Light and Fresh Salads
A crisp and refreshing salad is a great way to lighten up the meal.
Caesar Salad – Romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan with a creamy dressing.
Apple and Walnut Salad – A mix of greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese with a tangy vinaigrette.
Cranberry Spinach Salad – Fresh baby spinach, dried cranberries, pecans, and goat cheese.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad – Lightly dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
📌 Tip: Adding a fruit-based salad like apple or cranberry salad brings a refreshing, slightly sweet contrast to the rich casserole.
4. Holiday-Inspired Sides
If you’re making this casserole as part of a holiday meal, these sides will complete your festive feast!
Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet-tart contrast to the savory casserole.
Roasted Butternut Squash – A slightly sweet and nutty side with warm spices.
Stuffed Mushrooms – A tasty, bite-sized appetizer that pairs well with the casserole.
Glazed Ham or Roasted Turkey – If serving for Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding a protein like ham or turkey makes it a holiday-worthy meal.
📌 Tip: A side of cranberry sauce is a simple but game-changing addition to this casserole!
5. Light and Refreshing Beverages
Pairing the right drink with your casserole can enhance the overall dining experience.
Iced Tea or Lemonade – A light, refreshing drink that balances out the richness.
White Wine (for adults) – A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Apple Cider – A festive and comforting drink for fall and winter meals.
📌 Tip: For a cozy winter dinner, serve this meal with a warm cup of herbal tea or mulled cider.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about chicken and stuffing casserole is that it makes fantastic leftovers! Whether you want to store it for a few days, freeze it for later, or reheat it without drying it out, these pro tips will help you keep your casserole fresh and delicious.
1. Storing Leftovers in the Refrigerator
How to Store:
- Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
📌 Tip: If you plan to eat it within a couple of days, you can store the casserole in the same baking dish—just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.
2. Freezing the Casserole
If you want to make this dish ahead of time or save leftovers for later, freezing is a great option.
How to Freeze Unbaked Casserole (Meal Prep Version):
- Assemble the casserole as usual, but do not bake it.
- Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
- Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Freeze Leftover Baked Casserole:
- Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
- Divide it into individual portions and store them in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
📌 Tip: Freezing in individual portions makes reheating quick and easy, especially for busy weeknights!
3. How to Reheat Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Proper reheating ensures your casserole stays moist and delicious, not dry or soggy.
The Oven (Best Method)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from burning.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes (or until heated through).
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp the topping.
Reheating in the Microwave (Quick Method)
- Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel (this helps retain moisture).
Reheating from Frozen (No Need to Thaw!)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake, covered, for 60-75 minutes until heated through.
- Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.
📌 Tip: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating to keep the casserole moist!
How Long Does Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Last?
| Storage Method | How Long It Lasts |
|---|---|
| In the fridge | 3-4 days |
| In the freezer (unbaked) | Up to 3 months |
| In the freezer (baked) | Up to 3 months |
📌 Tip: Always check for signs of spoilage before eating, like a sour smell or an off texture.
Make-Ahead Tip for Busy Cooks
If you’re making this dish ahead for a holiday meal or a busy weeknight, here’s the best strategy:
When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before putting it in the oven.
Bake as directed and enjoy a stress-free meal!
If you love comforting, oven-baked meals like this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, you might also enjoy this Meatloaf Glaze Recipe for a sweet and tangy twist on a classic dish. For a delicious side, try this Dorito Taco Salad—it adds the perfect crunchy contrast to your meal. And don’t forget dessert! These Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and the perfect sweet treat to round out your dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does chicken casserole take to cook?
The total baking time for chicken and stuffing casserole depends on whether you’re starting with raw or cooked chicken:
✔️ Using Cooked Chicken:
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
✔️ Using Raw Chicken (Less Common Method):
- If using raw, diced chicken, bake for 45-50 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
📌 Tip: If the stuffing is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil and uncover it for the last 10 minutes.
2. How long is chicken and stuffing casserole good for?
Proper storage ensures your casserole stays fresh and safe to eat. Here’s how long it lasts:
| Storage Method | How Long It Lasts |
|---|---|
| In the refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| In the freezer (unbaked) | Up to 3 months |
| In the freezer (baked) | Up to 3 months |
📌 Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. Always reheat thoroughly before eating.
3. Should chicken casserole be covered or uncovered?
✔️ For most of the baking time: Keep the casserole covered with foil to retain moisture and prevent the stuffing from drying out.
✔️ During the last 10 minutes: Remove the foil to let the top brown and crisp up for the perfect texture.
📌 Tip: If the top isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
4. Can chicken and stuffing casserole be frozen?
Yes! Chicken and stuffing casserole freezes well whether it’s baked or unbaked.
✔️ To Freeze an Unbaked Casserole (Best for Meal Prep):
- Assemble the casserole as usual but do not bake.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
✔️ To Freeze a Baked Casserole (For Leftovers):
- Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
- Cut into portions and store in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until hot throughout.
📌 Tip: Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to keep it moist.
Conclusion
Chicken and stuffing casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and even holiday gatherings. With its rich, creamy texture, savory stuffing, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy.
Not only is this casserole easy to make, but it’s also versatile—you can customize it with vegetables, cheese, spices, or even make it gluten-free or dairy-free. Plus, it’s an excellent meal-prep option, as it stores and freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort.
So whether you’re using up leftover chicken, looking for a hearty dish to feed a crowd, or simply craving a warm, cozy meal, this chicken and stuffing casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Are you ready to try this recipe? Let me know how it turns out! 😊
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole – Comfort Food Favorite
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
Ingredients
- ✅ For the Chicken Layer:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (or use all chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ✅ For the Stuffing Layer:
- 1 box 6 oz stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup diced celery optional
- ½ cup diced onion optional
- ✅ For Garnish Optional:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy variation
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 3: Make the Stuffing Topping
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth until warm. Remove from heat and stir in the stuffing mix, melted butter, diced celery, and onion (if using). Let it sit for 5 minutes until the stuffing absorbs the liquid. Fluff with a fork.
- Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. If adding cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy this delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with a side of green beans or a fresh salad!
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Protein Swap: Use turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday meal idea.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor.