Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is just the kind of comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. Tender chicken pieces baked with a crispy, golden stuffing topping make this dish both simple and satisfying. The flavors mix perfectly, with juicy chicken and herbs baked right into the stuffing for a cozy, homey dinner.
I love making this recipe when I want something effortless but still tasty. The best part is you only need a few ingredients and one dish to bake, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. I usually toss in some extra veggies on the side or stir them right into the stuffing to keep things colorful and fresh.
For me, this bake is like the ultimate comfort food on a chilly evening. There’s something really special about how the stuffing crisps up while the chicken stays nice and juicy beneath. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for busy weeknights but still feels a little bit special when you serve it up. I always look forward to leftovers for an easy lunch the next day, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cutting and even cooking. Thighs work great too if you want a juicier, more flavorful dish.
Stuffing Mix: Using boxed stuffing is a huge time saver. Cornbread or herb varieties add a nice flavor twist. Gluten-free stuffing can be a good swap if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and binds everything. For a homemade touch, you can mix cream, chicken broth, and a bit of flour to make a simple sauce.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Either adds tang and creaminess. Greek yogurt lightens the dish and ups the protein.
Onion and Celery: These add freshness and crunch in the stuffing. If you prefer, swap with bell pepper, mushrooms, or skip for a smoother texture.
How Do You Get the Stuffing Crispy Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Balancing moist chicken with a crispy stuffing top is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Coat chicken pieces well with the creamy soup mix to keep them juicy during baking.
- Prepare the stuffing separately with melted butter and just enough water—too much liquid makes it soggy.
- Spread the stuffing loosely on top so it forms a nice crust as it bakes.
- Bake uncovered to allow moisture to escape and the top to brown.
- Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking; this firms up the stuffing and keeps the chicken juices settled.
Following these steps helps you get tender, juicy chicken with golden, crunchy stuffing every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and crispy stuffing top.
- Mixing bowls – one for combining the sauce and chicken, another for prepping the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your soup, broth, and seasonings just right.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing without scratching your bowls.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a holiday twist with similar cooking time.
- Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese over the stuffing before baking for an extra melty topping.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or spinach for more veggies and color.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika or dried thyme into the chicken mixture to boost flavor and aroma.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Mixture:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried sage or poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Stuffing:
- 1 box (6 oz) savory stuffing mix (such as cornbread or herb stuffing)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup chopped onion (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped celery (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs like thyme or sage
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. So, plan for about 1 hour total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking.
2. Mix the Chicken Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they’re fully coated in the creamy mixture.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Spread the coated chicken evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Prepare the Stuffing Topping:
In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions. This usually means adding melted butter and water. If you like, fold in chopped onion and celery to add flavor and texture.
5. Add the Stuffing and Bake:
Evenly sprinkle the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the stuffing turns golden brown and crispy on top.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or sage for a nice touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious chicken and stuffing bake warm. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cutting and mixing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold 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, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve With Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
Steamed or roasted vegetables, like green beans or broccoli, work great. A crisp green salad also complements the creamy, savory dish nicely for a balanced meal.
