Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Try Today

Have you ever faced a busy weeknight and wondered, “What can I prepare that’s both easy and comforting?” If you’re looking for an easy, comforting dish, try this chicken and stuffing casserole recipe with 5 simple steps for a delicious, hassle-free dinner tonight! This hearty dish combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
1 package stuffing mix (6 oz, any flavor)
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Substitution Suggestions:

Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian twist.
Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep or tofu for a plant-based option.
Replace the mixed vegetables with your favorites like broccoli or green beans for a personalized touch.

Timing

Preparing this chicken and stuffing casserole is efficient, taking about 90 minutes in total. This is nearly 20% less time than the average casserole recipe, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly for the perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. Tip: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your family's taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the chicken mixture evenly. Then, sprinkle the stuffing mix over the top. For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a little melted butter over the stuffing. Personalized Touch: Adding a hint of sage in the stuffing can enhance the overall flavor.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Actionable Tip: Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal!

Nutritional Information

This chicken and stuffing casserole provides a balanced meal for your family. Here’s a breakdown for one serving (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: 360
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can easily make this dish healthier by:

Using low-sodium chicken broth and soup to reduce the sodium content.
Opting for whole grain or gluten-free stuffing mix to increase fiber levels.
Adding more fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutritional value without compromising taste.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your chicken and stuffing casserole experience by:

Serving it alongside a colorful garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette.
Pairing it with a side of cranberry sauce for a pop of sweetness.
Incorporating a sprinkle of green onions or crushed nuts for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your casserole, avoid these pitfalls:

Underseasoning: Be generous with your spices; this dish can handle a flavorful kick!
Skipping the cooling time: This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
Not checking doneness: Always ensure that your chicken is heated through completely—use a food thermometer to confirm it reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers can be stored effectively:

Refrigeration: Place in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can last for about two months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture rather than using a microwave.

Conclusion

This chicken and stuffing casserole recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers on comfort and flavor. With just five steps, you can create a dish that will satisfy the whole family. We invite you to try this recipe tonight, share your feedback, or explore our other delightful posts for more culinary inspiration!

FAQs

Q: Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
A: Yes, but ensure the cooking time is extended to allow the chicken to reach a safe internal temperature.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth along with cream of mushroom soup.

Q: What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
A: You can easily make a homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings, or simply use cream of mushroom.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover it, and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Explore this chicken and stuffing casserole recipe and make your dinner hassle-free and delicious!