If you’re on the lookout for a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, then this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Combining tender chicken pieces, creamy soups, and that perfectly crisped stuffing topping, this casserole layers comforting textures and flavors effortlessly. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for gatherings, bringing that nostalgic “homemade” vibe to your table every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building a rich, savory casserole that feels both satisfying and familiar. From the juicy chicken to the flavorful stuffing mix, every component is essential in crafting those layers of deliciousness.
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins: Tender, juicy bites that cook quickly and soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the dish.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup: Brings a subtle herby creaminess and helps bind the casserole.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and a classic comforting taste.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the texture of the soups into a smooth sauce.
- 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix: Creates that irresistible crispy topping with flavorful herbs.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and infuses extra savory goodness throughout.
- Fresh or dried parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a fresh herby note at the end.
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking. Having this setup ready makes the process smooth and fuss-free.
Step 2: Cut and Season the Chicken
Take those tender chicken tenderloins and cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and even cooking. Spread them evenly in your prepared dish. Next, toss the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper to season every morsel, giving the base of your casserole that essential flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
Whisk together the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk in a small bowl until fully combined and silky smooth. This luscious sauce is the glue that brings the entire casserole together, adding moisture and that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour your creamy mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken pieces in the baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out, making sure each piece of chicken is fully coated. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and tenderness.
Step 5: Add the Stuffing Top
Sprinkle the Stove Top chicken stuffing mix evenly on top of your sauced chicken. The stuffing provides a wonderful contrast in texture, turning crisp and golden after baking, while still staying moist underneath thanks to the broth.
Step 6: Moisten the Stuffing
Pour the chicken broth gently over the stuffing, making sure all of it gets moistened but not soaked. This method allows the stuffing to absorb the savory broth and bake to a perfect crisp on top without drying out.
Step 7: Bake with Care
Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the stuffing golden up perfectly. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh or dried parsley on top if you like for a fresh, vibrant touch. When serving, scoop some of the rich gravy pooling beneath the casserole onto your plate and drizzle it over your serving. Every bite will be cozy, flavorful, and just right.
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a lovely burst of green that brightens this hearty dish. For a bit of extra zing, try a sprinkling of sharp cheddar or a scattering of crispy fried onions. These simple touches elevate the dish and make each plate feel a little more special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans to balance the richness. A simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add that fresh crunch that complements the creamy casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation. Alternatively, turn leftovers into hearty sandwiches with a slice of melted cheese and some cranberry sauce for an indulgent twist on your favorite deli sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an excellent next-day meal or a quick reheat for busy evenings when you want comfort food in minutes.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly, and freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a bit more time if needed since it starts chilled.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through, or for a more even texture, place the casserole in a 350°F oven and heat covered for 20-25 minutes. Removing the cover in the last few minutes will help crisp up the stuffing topping again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! While chicken tenderloins cook quickly and stay tender, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to cut into bite-sized pieces and check doneness carefully.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the Stove Top stuffing with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your cream soups don’t contain gluten. Many brands offer gluten-free versions that work perfectly here.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped celery, carrots, or green beans blend beautifully into this dish. Either mix them in with the chicken or scatter them on top before adding the stuffing to boost nutrition and flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of celery soup?
You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or even homemade cream sauce if you prefer. Each gives a slightly different flavor but works wonderfully in the casserole’s creamy base.
How can I make the stuffing extra crispy?
To get an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Just watch it closely so it doesn’t burn, and you’ll have a beautifully golden, crunchy topping every time.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is a true all-time favorite that never fails to deliver those cozy, satisfying flavors we crave. It’s simple to make, yet full of heart and comfort, perfect for sharing with family or friends around the dinner table. Give it a try—you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a delicious secret to easy, home-cooked happiness.
Print
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Stuffing Casserole combines tender chicken pieces baked in a creamy blend of cream of celery and cream of chicken soups, topped with savory Stove Top stuffing mix, and moistened with chicken broth. Easily prepared in one dish, this hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner with minimal prep and a golden, crispy topping.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup milk
Topping
- 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh or dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later use.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken pieces, spreading to cover all the chicken thoroughly.
- Add Stuffing Mix: Sprinkle the Stove Top chicken stuffing mix evenly over the top of the soup-covered chicken.
- Moisten Stuffing: Pour the chicken broth evenly over the stuffing mix, ensuring it is fully moistened throughout.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes to allow the stuffing topping to brown lightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley for color and flavor. When serving, spoon some of the gravy from the bottom of the casserole over each portion for extra moisture and taste.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken tenderloins for the best texture and even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F for safe consumption.
- If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Stove Top stuffing mix is convenient, but you may use a homemade stuffing mix if preferred.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
