Chicken stuffing casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This classic recipe combines tender Cheesy Chicken Casserole with savory stuffing and a creamy sauce, making it a favorite among home cooks. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this casserole has got you covered. Read on for the full recipe and tips on how to make it your own.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a different flavor)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
Cook the Chicken: If you're not using pre-cooked chicken, bake, grill, or poach your chicken until fully cooked. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the Casserole Base
Combine Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a creamy base for your casserole.
Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the cooked chicken. If using, add the chopped celery and onion for added flavor and texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Stuffing
Prepare Stuffing Mix: Follow the package instructions to prepare the stuffing mix. This typically involves mixing the stuffing with melted butter and a bit of water.
Layer the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the prepared stuffing mix.
Bake and Serve
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown. The edges should be slightly crispy.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the stuffing during the last 10 minutes of baking, if desired.
Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to portion out.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Success
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds extra flavor and saves time.
Add Vegetables: Customize your casserole by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a bit of garlic powder or dried herbs can enhance the flavor.
Variations
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Low-Fat Options: Use low-fat sour cream and cheese to make a lighter version of this casserole.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free if necessary.
Conclusion
Chicken stuffing casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that's easy to make and always a hit. With its creamy chicken filling and savory stuffing topping, it's perfect for feeding a Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets (Homemade Recipe) crowd or enjoying a hearty meal with your family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own twists, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
