Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma wafting through my kitchen is nothing short of heartwarming—think tender chicken enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce and topped with golden stuffing. This Easy Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is my go-to on hectic weeknights, effortlessly combining comfort food allure with family-friendly appeal in one single pan. Not only does it come together with minimal prep and cleanup, but it also freezes like a dream, making those busy evenings a breeze. With endless customization options, it’s a dish that can adapt to your family’s tastes, ensuring that every bite feels like a warm hug. So, are you ready to create a new favorite at your dinner table? Why Is This Casserole So Irresistible? Comforting flavors abound in this dish, perfect for cozy family dinners. One-Pan Wonder means less cleanup, making meal prep a breeze! Customizable ingredients let you tailor each casserole to your family’s taste—try adding veggies like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. Freezer-Friendly? Yes! Prepare ahead and enjoy quick dinners; it thaws beautifully. Every bite is a reminder of cherished family gatherings, ensuring you’ll come back for seconds! Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Chicken Tenderloins – The star protein for this dish; you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs for a more flavorful option. Cream of Celery Soup – Provides a creamy base; swap it with cream of mushroom for a different twist. Cream of Chicken Soup – Enhances moisture and adds depth; feel free to use another variety of cream soup. Milk – Thins the sauce for an even coating; almond or oat milk can be great dairy-free alternatives. Garlic Powder – Infuses the casserole with a savory kick; fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish further. Chicken Stuffing Mix – Adds heartiness and texture; any stuffing mix will do, just consider low-sodium options for a healthier choice. Chicken Broth – Keeps everything moist and delicious; you can opt for vegetable broth for a lighter version. Salt – Boosts the overall flavor; adjust the amount to cater to specific dietary requirements. Black Pepper – Offers a bit of heat; you can tweak this based on your family’s preferences. Parsley – Freshness on top; substitute with fresh thyme or your favorite herbs for a personalized touch. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This preparation ensures your Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole won’t stick as it bakes, allowing for a smooth serving later on. Step 2: Cut and Arrange Chicken Next, cut your chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches each. Arrange these pieces in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor of the casserole as it cooks. Step 3: Mix the Sauce In a medium bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, and garlic powder. Whisk the mixture until smooth; this will create a creamy sauce that envelops your chicken. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated for maximum flavor and moisture. Step 4: Add the Stuffing Sprinkle the chicken stuffing mix evenly over the top of the creamy chicken layer. This adds texture and a delightful crunch as it bakes. Make sure to cover the entire surface, as this will form the delicious topping of your Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Step 5: Pour in the Broth Now it’s time to pour chicken broth over the stuffing. This step is crucial as it ensures the stuffing is fully moistened, preventing dryness during baking. The broth will flow between the stuffing mix, creating a perfect blend of flavors throughout the casserole. Step 6: Cover and Bake Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step allows the casserole to simmer and develop rich flavors while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Step 7: Crisp the Top After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will crisp up the stuffing on top, giving that golden-brown color and texture that everyone loves in a Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Step 8: Let It Rest and Serve Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, and your comforting casserole is ready to delight your family! Expert Tips for Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Moisten Thoroughly: Ensure the stuffing is fully moistened with chicken broth before baking. This prevents dryness and keeps the casserole deliciously tender. Cover to Cook: Baking the casserole covered helps retain moisture; uncover it for the last 5 minutes to achieve that crispy, golden top we all love. Vegetable Add-Ins: If you want to add vegetables like peas or carrots, adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance the flavors in your Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Meal Prep Magic: For a head start on busy weeks, prepare the chicken and soup mixture ahead of time. Assemble everything just before baking for a fresh and easy dinner. Try Alternatives: Experiment with different types of cream soups or stuffing options to customize the flavor profile and cater to your family’s preferences. Make Ahead Options These Easy Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the chicken and soup mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply cut and season the chicken, mix the creamy sauce, and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can layer the casserole entirely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just remember to pour the chicken broth over the stuffing right before baking to ensure it stays moist. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve without the last-minute scramble! Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe to match your family’s preferences and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Replace cream soups with cashew cream and use almond milk for a creamy texture that everyone can enjoy. Vegetable Boost: Stir in chopped broccoli or green beans for added nutrition—these veggies hold up wonderfully in the casserole! Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free stuffing mix and vegetable broth, making this casserole accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty twist that livens up the flavors in your casserole. Heartier Flavor: Swap out the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quick, flavorful dinner option. Herb Infusion: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the creamy sauce for an aromatic touch that enhances the taste beautifully. Crushed Topping: Top with crushed crackers or cornflakes instead of stuffing for a crunchy texture that adds a delightful contrast. Sweet Surprise: Fold in dried cranberries or apple slices for a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the dish. For a deeper flavor experience, consider serving this casserole alongside a simple green salad or with a side of Spinach Chicken Stuffed mushrooms for that added layer of deliciousness! What to Serve with Easy Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole? Transform your comforting casserole into a complete meal that surrounds your family with warmth and flavor, perfect for any occasion. Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing counterpoint, this salad adds a crisp texture, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully. Steamed Broccoli: Offering bright color and crunch, tender broccoli brings fresh flavors to your plate, making every bite feel wholesome. Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery side with a hint of garlic is the ultimate comfort food complement, perfect for sopping up the creamy casserole sauce. The addition of seasoned garlic bread creates a lovely contrast, inviting comforting bites that embrace nostalgia. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic side dish adds another layer of creamy goodness, making your dinner experience indulgently satisfying for everyone at the table. Cranberry Sauce: A delightful sweetness cuts through the savory notes of the casserole, enhancing its flavor and bringing a festive touch to the meal. Homemade Applesauce: The natural sweetness and smooth texture of applesauce is a comforting addition, offering a familiar and delightful side that pairs wonderfully. Sparkling Apple Cider: To drink, this bubbly, fruity beverage brings a celebratory feel to the table, making your family meal feel special and flavorful, perfect for all ages. How to Store and Freeze Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish without waste. Freezer: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: For reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through, maintaining that cozy, creamy goodness. Make-Ahead: If you want a quick dinner option, prepare the classic chicken and stuffing casserole ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to feast! Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this casserole? Absolutely! For this Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, chicken tenderloins are a fantastic choice due to their tenderness. If you prefer a juicier result, boneless chicken thighs can add extra moisture and flavor to your dish. Look for chicken that is pink and free from dark spots to ensure freshness. How should I store leftovers? After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows you to savor those comforting flavors again without any fuss. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing! Can I freeze Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole? How? Very! You can freeze this casserole both before and after baking for up to 3 months. To do this, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating. What if the stuffing turns out dry? If you notice dryness in your casserole, it often means the stuffing didn’t absorb enough moisture. To avoid this, ensure you generously pour chicken broth over the stuffing before baking. If it does come out dry, you can add a little broth or gravy to the dish when serving to restore moisture and flavor. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, try using gluten-free stuffing mix and verify that the cream soups are gluten-free as well. If you have dietary restrictions regarding sodium, go for low-sodium soups and broth. And remember, many ingredients can be substituted, so don’t hesitate to customize based on your family’s needs! Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Comfort in Every Bite Enjoy Classic Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and golden stuffing. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 lb Chicken Tenderloins Can substitute with boneless chicken thighs1 can Cream of Celery Soup Can be swapped with cream of mushroom1 can Cream of Chicken Soup Feel free to use another variety1/2 cup Milk Dairy-free alternatives include almond or oat milk1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish6 oz Chicken Stuffing Mix Consider low-sodium options for healthier choice1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version1 tsp Salt Adjust for dietary requirements1/2 tsp Black Pepper Tweak based on preferences2 tbsp Parsley Can substitute with fresh thyme or favorite herbs Equipment 9x13 baking dishMedium bowlWhisk Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.Cut chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in an even layer in the baking dish. Season with salt and black pepper.In a medium bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.Sprinkle the chicken stuffing mix evenly over the top of the creamy chicken layer.Pour chicken broth over the stuffing to ensure it’s fully moistened.Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the stuffing.Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving and garnish with chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg NotesCustomize with vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition. This casserole can be frozen before or after baking for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
