Are you looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and full of comforting flavors? Well, look no further! Chicken & Stuffing Bake is the perfect meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a hearty, no-fuss dinner. This simple yet delicious recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful stuffing mixture, all baked together in a creamy, savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating the perfect Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to dive into this hearty dish that will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Chicken & Stuffing Bake
Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Chicken & Stuffing Bake. These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken & Stuffing Bake Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Chicken breasts cook quickly, stay tender, and are perfect for this kind of one-pan recipe.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix: This will serve as the base for the stuffing, which gets baked into a rich, savory mixture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that makes this dish rich and comforting.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds a smooth, tangy richness to the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps bring moisture to the stuffing and enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have seasoning for a savory depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complementing the garlic powder, onion powder gives the dish a rounded flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a bit of spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Cheese lovers will want to top the dish with a gooey layer of melted cheddar. It’s optional, but it adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: The butter will give the stuffing a golden-brown crust and make it extra flavorful.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the final dish.
With everything ready to go, we can start cooking! Follow these easy steps to make your Chicken & Stuffing Bake.
How to Make Chicken & Stuffing Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a breeze. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready for your family. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for cooking chicken breasts and ensuring the stuffing gets golden and crispy. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. This will prevent the dish from sticking and help it cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth. Stir it well and allow it to sit for a few minutes so the stuffing can absorb the liquid. This step is key for creating moist stuffing, as the chicken broth adds richness and flavor to the mix. After a few minutes, your stuffing should be ready to use.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Now, let’s make the creamy sauce that will coat the chicken breasts. In another bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture will serve as the flavorful base that gets spread over the chicken breasts, adding moisture and richness to the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Now that the stuffing and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If you like, you can season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper before placing them in the dish for extra flavor. Once the chicken is arranged in the dish, spread the creamy soup mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Be generous, as the sauce will keep the chicken moist during baking.
Next, spoon the prepared stuffing mixture on top of the chicken breasts, spreading it out evenly. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the top of the stuffing. The butter will give the stuffing a deliciously golden-brown crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The foil helps trap moisture inside, keeping the chicken juicy and tender. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, and if you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the stuffing. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The stuffing should be golden and crispy, and the cheese, if used, should be melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Once the chicken is cooked and the stuffing is golden, remove the dish from the oven. Let the Chicken & Stuffing Bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice the chicken. Before serving, garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. This step is optional, but it adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Nutritional Information
This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is the perfect combination of rich and hearty ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 serving is approximately 1 chicken breast with stuffing):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
This dish is a great source of protein and carbs, making it perfect for a filling dinner. However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium cream of chicken soup or chicken broth. You can also omit the cheese for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken & Stuffing Bake
While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some side dish ideas to complete your Chicken & Stuffing Bake:
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are the perfect complement to Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavors balance out the richness of the chicken and stuffing.
2. Mashed Potatoes
For an extra creamy side, serve this dish with mashed potatoes. The potatoes are the perfect vessel for soaking up the savory sauce from the chicken, and they add a comforting touch to the meal.
3. Fresh Salad
A light, refreshing salad can help cut through the richness of the chicken and stuffing. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness and helps balance the flavors on your plate.
4. Garlic Bread
If you love bread, garlic bread is a great choice for soaking up any extra sauce from the Chicken & Stuffing Bake. Its crispy exterior and buttery garlic flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to this hearty meal.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though this dish is so delicious you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the Chicken & Stuffing Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make Chicken & Stuffing Bake in Advance?
Absolutely! Chicken & Stuffing Bake is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just follow the steps to assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover, and bake it as directed. This makes it perfect for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken & Stuffing Bake
Here are a few tips to ensure your Chicken & Stuffing Bake turns out perfect every time:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This recipe works best with boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook quickly and remain tender.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Try different stuffing flavors: You can use any variety of stuffing mix that you like! Try a cornbread stuffing for a slightly different flavor or even a savory herb stuffing for extra depth.
- Add veggies: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the stuffing for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Chicken & Stuffing Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy soup, savory stuffing, and a golden, crispy top. It’s simple to make, and with minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying, delicious meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy families, this one-dish wonder is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
So, the next time you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s both comforting and delicious, give this Chicken & Stuffing Bake a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
And for more hearty recipes, don’t miss these:
Give it a try, and make this your go-to recipe for those nights when you need something quick, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
PrintChicken & Stuffing Bake – Easy, Comforting, and Delicious
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken & Stuffing Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce and topped with buttery, golden stuffing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. -
Prepare the Stuffing:
In a medium bowl, mix the stuffing mix with chicken broth. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid. -
Prepare the Sauce:
In another bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well mixed. -
Assemble the Dish:
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spread the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken. Spoon the stuffing mixture on top. Drizzle with melted butter. -
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese (if using), and bake for 10-15 more minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C) and the stuffing is golden brown. -
Serve:
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Add diced veggies like mushrooms or carrots for extra texture.
- Serve with a side of steamed veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with stuffing
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Chicken & Stuffing Bake, chicken stuffing casserole, baked chicken with stuffing, creamy chicken stuffing dish, easy chicken dinner