If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy savory soups and the irresistible crunch of stuffing all baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole is one of those classic comfort foods that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to bring to a family gathering. Every bite delivers cozy flavors and textures that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the juicy chicken delivering protein, the creamy soups adding depth, or the stuffing mix providing that delightful crispy topping. Simple pantry staples come together effortlessly to create something truly comforting.
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins: Tender and quick-cooking, these bite-sized pieces soak up flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat to brighten the dish.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup: Provides a gentle, herbaceous creaminess that complements the chicken.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup: Brings a rich, savory base that ties all the elements together.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the soup mixture and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
- 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix: The crispy, flavorful topper that gives the casserole its iconic texture contrast.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist while adding extra depth to the overall flavor.
- Fresh or dried parsley (optional): A fresh, bright garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s nice and hot so the casserole cooks evenly. Next, grab an 11×7-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking; this little step makes serving up the casserole a breeze later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut your chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces that will cook quickly and be easy to eat. Place these pieces in the baking dish, then toss them with kosher salt and black pepper to season evenly—simple, classic seasoning works wonders here.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth. This luscious sauce will tenderize the chicken as it bakes while infusing rich flavor throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, smoothing it out so every piece gets coated. Then, sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly over the top. This stuffing layer is what will create that irresistible crispy, golden crust.
Step 5: Moisturize and Bake
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the stuffing mix, making sure the whole layer gets moistened—this helps the stuffing bake to the perfect texture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned top. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle your casserole with a little fresh or dried parsley for a pop of vibrant color and a hint of herbal brightness. When serving, don’t forget to spoon some of the delicious gravy from the bottom over the top—this step will have everyone at the table smiling!
How to Serve Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of parsley is a simple but lovely way to finish the dish, adding a fresh, green pop that contrasts nicely with the golden browned stuffing. If you want a little extra flair, a few freshly cracked black peppercorns or a drizzle of gravy from the pan will elevate the flavor and presentation effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe with crisp green veggies like roasted green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or sautéed asparagus bring color and freshness, while mashed potatoes or buttery corn make for extra hearty and comforting accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole family-style right from the baking dish so everyone can enjoy the crispy topping and creamy chicken straight away. For a fancier touch, plate individual portions in shallow bowls and drizzle with pan gravy, finished with a small sprig of fresh parsley. This transforms the humble casserole into a dish worthy of any special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and you’ll have a ready-made meal that tastes just as comforting the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. You can also warm leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 20 minutes, removing the foil at the end to crisp the stuffing back up. Reheating this way preserves the comforting textures perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts will work just fine—just cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the baking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through without drying out.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower and use vegetable broth with vegetarian cream soups to keep that same creamy texture.
Can I make this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble it a day before baking; just keep it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh when you’re ready. This actually allows the flavors to meld even more.
What type of stuffing mix is best to use?
Stove Top chicken stuffing mix is great here because it’s flavorful and easy to find, but any good-quality chicken-flavored stuffing mix will do the job nicely.
How can I make the stuffing extra crispy?
For crispier stuffing, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking and even broil it for a minute or two while watching closely to avoid burning. This will give that golden crunch a little boost.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that just feels like home. It’s easy to make, delivers on hearty, comforting flavor, and pleases a crowd no matter the occasion. I hope you whip up a batch soon and enjoy those cozy, saucy bites as much as I do – trust me, it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
PrintChicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
A comforting Chicken and Stuffing Casserole featuring tender chicken pieces baked in a creamy blend of celery and chicken soups, topped with flavorful Stove Top stuffing and broth for a moist, savory meal perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 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
Stuffing
- 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Garnish
- Fresh or dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Season Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the 10.5-ounce cans of cream of celery soup and cream of chicken soup with 1/4 cup milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, spreading it to make sure all the chicken is covered.
- Add Stuffing Mix: Evenly sprinkle the 6-ounce box of Stove Top chicken stuffing mix on top of the sauced chicken.
- Moisten Stuffing: Pour 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth over the stuffing mix, making sure all of the stuffing is thoroughly moistened.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes uncovered to lightly brown the stuffing topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh or dried parsley, if desired. Serve by scooping portions and drizzling some of the flavorful gravy from the casserole bottom over each serving.
Notes
- To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F internally.
- If you prefer, you can substitute fresh parsley for dried parsley for a fresher garnish.
- Chicken broth can be homemade or store-bought; adjust seasoning if using salted broth.
- Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the casserole during baking to prevent over-browning.
