Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is one of those perfect comfort food dishes that comes together quickly and makes a cozy, satisfying meal. Tender chicken breasts nestled on a bed of flavorful stuffing and baked until golden and delicious. The stuffing gets all crisp on top and soft underneath, soaking up all the yummy juices from the chicken.
I love making this bake when I want something fuss-free but still a little special. You can use your favorite boxed stuffing mix or homemade if you like, which makes it super flexible. I usually sprinkle some extra herbs on top for a fresh flavor boost, and it always turns out just right without any stress.
This dish is perfect for those weeknights when you want a warm dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I like to serve it with a simple side of green veggies or a fresh salad to keep things nice and balanced. It’s the kind of meal that reminds me of family dinners and makes everyone feel happily full and relaxed.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless pieces makes the bake quick and easy to eat. You can swap for thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Just keep the pieces bite-sized for even cooking.
Stuffing mix: A boxed stuffing mix keeps this recipe simple. Cornbread or herb stuffing works well for flavor. Homemade stuffing is great too if you want a fresher taste. For gluten-free, try a gluten-free stuffing mix.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and moisture. You can substitute it with cream of mushroom or celery soup for different flavors or use a homemade white sauce.
Onion & celery: These classic veggies build flavor in the base. If fresh isn’t handy, frozen chopped veggies can work well here.
Herbs & seasoning: Dried sage or poultry seasoning brings that warm, comforting flavor. Fresh thyme as a garnish adds a nice herbal note that brightens the dish.
How Do I Get the Stuffing Crispy on Top Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Getting the stuffing crunchy on top while keeping the chicken juicy can be a little tricky, but here’s what works for me:
- Cover with foil: Bake the dish covered at first. This traps steam and keeps the chicken moist.
- Uncover at the end: Take the foil off for the last 10-15 minutes. This lets the top layer brown and get crispy.
- Don’t over-soak the stuffing: When mixing in liquids, keep it moist but not soggy. The stuffing should hold its shape a bit.
- Use some melted butter: Stir melting butter into the stuffing mix before baking to help with browning and flavor.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to be sure chicken hits 165°F inside without overbaking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the chicken and stuffing layers evenly.
- Medium skillet – great for sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the mix.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the soup, broth, stuffing, and seasonings smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right amounts of liquids and spices.
- Aluminum foil – keeps the bake moist while cooking, then helps crisp the stuffing on top when removed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, juicier bite.
- Add cooked bacon or sausage for a smoky, meaty kick that pairs well with the stuffing.
- Mix in chopped apples or dried cranberries to add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before baking for gooey, melty goodness.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as cornbread or herb stuffing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or poultry seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 50 to 55 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at just under an hour from start to finish—a quick, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, in a medium skillet, sauté the chopped onion and celery in a little butter over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This adds lovely flavor to your bake.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, sautéed onion and celery, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients blend into a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Add the Stuffing and Butter:
Stir in the stuffing mix and melted butter to the soup mix. Make sure the stuffing is coated well but not soggy. This will help keep your bake moist but not mushy.
4. Assemble the Bake:
Spread half of the stuffing mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Place your bite-sized chicken pieces in an even layer over the stuffing. Then, cover the chicken with the remaining stuffing mixture, gently pressing it down.
5. Bake It Up!
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes so the top gets golden and crispy. Make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Let the bake cool just a bit, then sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley if you want a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve it up warm and enjoy the delicious comfort!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. Pat the pieces dry to avoid extra moisture in the bake.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With This Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
It pairs wonderfully with steamed green veggies, a fresh salad, or roasted root vegetables for a complete meal.
