Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and flavorful stuffing all baked up in one pan. It’s a great mix of juicy, savory chicken and the herby, slightly crispy texture of stuffing on top that makes every bite so satisfying.
I love how easy this recipe is to whip up, especially on those busy weeknights when you want a tasty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. I usually use store-bought stuffing mix to keep things quick but feel free to add your favorite herbs or a little extra butter for even more flavor. It’s one of those dishes where you can easily swap out ingredients to match what you have on hand.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad. The chicken stays juicy while the stuffing gets golden and crispy on top, which I always look forward to. Plus, it’s a great dish for family dinners because it’s filling, familiar, and something everyone really enjoys. I often think of cozy evenings at home whenever I make this bake—it’s just that kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly and stay tender when cut into pieces. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want juicier meat.
Stuffing Mix: Classic herb stuffing mix works great for flavor and texture. If you want gluten-free, look for a gluten-free stuffing or use crushed gluten-free bread crumbs with your favorite herbs.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and a gentle chicken flavor. If you prefer homemade, replace it with a simple sauce made from chicken broth and a bit of cream or milk thickened with flour.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tang. Greek yogurt is a good substitute for a lighter option.
Onion and Celery: These veggies give subtle crunch and flavor. Feel free to add carrots or mushrooms for a bit of variety.
How Do I Get a Crispy Stuffing Topping Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Balancing a crisp topping with juicy chicken is key in this recipe. Here are my tips:
- Coat the stuffing crumbs with melted butter before topping—it helps them brown nicely.
- Don’t cover the dish while baking; this lets the stuffing crisp up.
- Check the chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking (165°F or 74°C is perfect).
- Let the bake rest a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and plenty of space for the stuffing topping to get crispy.
- Large mixing bowl – to mix chicken, soup, broth, and veggies easily in one place.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts and consistent results.
- Whisk or spoon – helps blend the soup mixture smoothly without lumps.
- Meat thermometer – makes sure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want more juicy, tender meat with extra flavor.
- Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, cheesy crust that pairs well with stuffing.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or green beans with the chicken mixture for extra veggies and texture.
- Use a spicy stuffing mix or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mix for a little heat.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (classic herb flavor recommended)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Salt, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, allow a few minutes for resting before serving. So, in total, expect about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Mix the Sauce:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Add Vegetables and Chicken:
Stir in the diced onion and celery. Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss everything together so the chicken gets coated nicely with the sauce mixture.
3. Assemble the Bake:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture evenly into the dish. In another bowl, mix the stuffing mix with the melted butter until the crumbs are moist. Sprinkle this buttered stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the dish uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the stuffing topping is golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme if you like, then serve warm and enjoy your cozy chicken and stuffing bake!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cutting it into pieces and adding it to the recipe. This ensures even cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baked straight from the fridge.
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.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Bake?
Yes! Feel free to mix in vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or carrots with the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
