Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole, and Chicken and Stuffing Casserole takes that cozy feeling to a whole new level. Packed with shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a crunchy stuffing topping, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknight dinners or a family gathering. In my experience, it’s one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma that makes you want to dive right in.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One of the main reasons to whip up this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is its simplicity. It’s a budget-friendly dish that requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights or lazy Sundays. Plus, it’s a real kid-pleaser!
"This casserole has become a staple in our home! Easy to make, and the flavors are fantastic. The kids can’t get enough!" – Happy Home Cook
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kids are running around, and you need something quick yet satisfying. This dish checks all the boxes—easy to prepare, packed with protein, and wonderfully comforting. Its versatility also allows you to use up any leftover chicken or adapt it with your favorite veggies!
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a breeze! Within a short amount of time, you can create a delicious one-dish meal. Here’s what to expect in the cooking process:
- Preheat your oven.
- Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Let’s dive into the ingredients.
What You’ll Need
To create this delightful casserole, gather these key ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize it! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version, or swap the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand.
Directions to Follow
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the stuffing mix until everything is combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, consider these creative ideas:
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with a side salad for a fresh crunchy complement.
- Pair with some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy goodness.
Your family will adore the balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After you’ve savored this casserole, you might have some leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them effectively:
- Fridge: Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for more extended storage. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings until hot.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are some pro tips to elevate your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:
- Add Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary when mixing your ingredients.
- Customize: Feel free to experiment with different proteins like turkey or even ground beef for a twist!
- Cheesy Addition: Add a layer of shredded cheese on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Creative Twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Herbed Stuffing: Try using a herb-flavored stuffing for a fragrant twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth for a rich flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.
Common Questions
What’s the prep time for this casserole?
Prep time is just about 15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy nights.
Can I use other types of soup?
Absolutely! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery can work as substitutes for cream of chicken soup.
Is it safe to freeze the casserole after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it’s cooled, but ensure it’s stored correctly in an airtight container.
With these straightforward instructions and helpful tips, you’ll soon be serving up a warm, delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that’s sure to become a beloved family favorite!
Print
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting chicken and stuffing casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the stuffing mix until everything is combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg