Searching for a comforting dish that brings the family together? This chicken and stuffing casserole is the epitome of home-cooked goodness. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken with fluffy stuffing for a delightful experience.
Picture this: juicy chicken baked to perfection, smothered in a creamy sauce, and topped with a golden-brown layer of stuffing. This recipe is not just easy to make, it’s bursting with flavor and makes for fantastic leftovers. Serve it with some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
The Comforting Essence of Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This chicken and stuffing casserole embodies the warmth and love of home-cooked meals. The dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crispy stuffing topping, creating a symphony of flavors that delights the palate.
Every bite provides a comforting sensation, reminiscent of family gatherings and cherished moments around the dinner table. The casserole’s aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and share in the experience.
Ingredients That Create Magic
To prepare this delightful casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that combine effortlessly to create a hearty dish. Tender cooked chicken forms the base, while cream of chicken soup and sour cream add a creamy richness.
For the stuffing, a package of stuffing mix provides fluffy texture, enhanced by melted butter and aromatic seasonings. Optional shredded cheddar cheese can be added for those who crave a little extra indulgence, elevating the casserole to new heights of deliciousness.
Preparation Steps for a Delightful Meal
Getting started on this casserole is a breeze. The preparation involves mixing the chicken with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and seasonings in a large bowl. This step is crucial, as it ensures that every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy mixture, enhancing flavor and moisture.
Next, the assembly process begins, where the chicken mixture is spread into a greased baking dish, creating a hearty foundation for the stuffing. The stuffing mix, coated in melted butter, is then sprinkled on top, forming a crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken underneath.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the casserole is baked in a preheated oven until golden brown and bubbling. This step is vital, as it allows the flavors to meld together while the stuffing gains a delightful crunch. The anticipation builds as the aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a satisfying meal ahead.
For those who enjoy a gooey topping, adding shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking enhances the dish, creating a deliciously creamy layer that melts beautifully.
This chicken and stuffing casserole is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether serving it to family or guests, it creates an inviting atmosphere filled with warmth and comfort. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal, offering a balance of flavors and textures.
Leftovers also make for a delightful lunch, as the flavors continue to develop, ensuring that every serving remains satisfying and delicious.
When ready to serve, garnishing the casserole with freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing its visual appeal. A serving spoon placed beside the dish invites everyone to dig in, creating an opportunity for shared enjoyment.
The presentation on a rustic wooden table further complements the homely feel of this dish, making each meal an occasion to remember. Savoring this casserole brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reaffirming that the best meals are often the simplest ones.
The Ultimate Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This chicken and stuffing casserole is a hearty dish made with succulent chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, from the tender chicken to the crispy topping.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (6 oz) package stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the mixture out.
- Add the Stuffing: In another bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter. Stir until the stuffing is evenly coated. Sprinkle the stuffing mixture over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the chicken mixture is bubbly.
- Optional Cheese Layer: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey topping.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
