Chicken and stuffing casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce into a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty meal, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (6-ounce) box stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and green beans), thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is moistened and set aside.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, and thawed mixed vegetables to the creamy mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the prepared stuffing, spreading it out evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish with a side salad or some crusty bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! You can use turkey, ham, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze chicken and stuffing casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? A: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of the canned soup.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free stuffing mix and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
This chicken and stuffing casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!