You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, willing dinner to magically appear? That’s exactly how my Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole was born – out of sheer desperation and a handful of pantry staples. This cozy, no-fuss dish has saved me more times than I can count, turning leftover chicken and a box of stuffing into something my whole family begs for. The best part? It comes together in about 10 minutes flat before the oven does all the work. There’s something magical about how the creamy chicken layer melds with that crispy stuffing topping – it’s like Thanksgiving comfort in every bite, but without any of the fuss. Trust me, once you try this simple casserole, it’ll become your go-to on busy weeknights (and lazy weekends too!).
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Let me tell you why this casserole has become my weeknight superhero:
- Weeknight lifesaver: From fridge to table in 35 minutes flat – even faster if you cheat with rotisserie chicken like I sometimes do!
- Pantry-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you probably have right now (who doesn’t have a box of stuffing mix hiding somewhere?).
- Crowd-pleaser: Kids go crazy for it, adults love it – that crispy golden topping gets everyone every time.
- Endlessly customizable: Swap the veggies, change the soup, add cheese – it’s hard to mess this one up.
- Comfort in a dish: That magical combo of creamy chicken and crispy stuffing tastes like a hug from grandma’s kitchen.
Seriously, this recipe is so easy you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout!
Ingredients for Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this ridiculously simple casserole – I bet you’ve got most of it already! The beauty is in how these basic ingredients transform into something so comforting:
- 2 cups cooked chicken – shredded (rotisserie works perfectly here)
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix – any flavor you like, though I’m partial to chicken or herb-seasoned
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – the condensed kind, don’t add water!
- 1/2 cup sour cream – packed right to the top of your measuring cup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – low-sodium if you’re watching salt
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – the classic peas and carrots combo never fails
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – our flavor booster
- 1/2 tsp onion powder – adds that savory depth
- Salt and pepper – to taste (go easy if your soup and stuffing mix are already salty)
See? Nothing fancy, just good, honest ingredients that work their magic together in the oven.
How to Make Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
Alright, let’s get this comforting casserole in the oven! Don’t worry – even if you’re not a confident cook, this recipe is foolproof. I’ve made it so many times I could probably do it with my eyes closed (though I don’t recommend trying that!). Here’s exactly how I put it all together:
Step 1: Preheat and Mix Wet Ingredients
First things first – crank that oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. Now grab a big mixing bowl – I like to use my favorite battered old ceramic one that’s seen a million meals. Dump in that can of cream of chicken soup (don’t dilute it!), the sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give it all a good whisk until it’s smooth as silk. Pro tip: Taste it now and adjust the salt and pepper – remember, the stuffing mix will add more salt later!
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Time to bring in the stars of the show! Toss in your shredded chicken (I always sneak a few bites because, well, cook’s privilege) and those frozen mixed veggies. Here’s where you want to mix thoroughly – I use a rubber spatula and really fold everything together until every piece of chicken is coated in that creamy goodness. Don’t worry if the veggies are still frozen – they’ll thaw perfectly while baking!
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Now for the magic! Spread your chicken mixture evenly into a greased baking dish – I use my trusty 9×13, but anything similar works. Here comes the best part: sprinkle that dry stuffing mix right over the top like you’re making a crispy golden blanket. No need to press it down – just let it sit pretty. Pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling like crazy. The hardest part? Waiting 5 minutes before diving in – but trust me, it’s worth it to let everything settle!
See? Told you it was easy! Now go enjoy your masterpiece – and try not to lick the plate (no judgment if you do).
Tips for the Best Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole
After making this casserole more times than I can count, I’ve learned all the little tricks that take it from good to “Oh my gosh, can I get this recipe?” levels of amazing. Here are my hard-earned secrets:
Rotisserie chicken is your best friend
Listen, I’m all for cooking chicken from scratch, but on busy nights? That grocery store rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver. Just shred it up while it’s still warm (the meat comes off so much easier) and you’re golden. Bonus: The skin adds extra flavor if you’re feeling indulgent!
Don’t skip the frozen veggies
I know fresh sounds fancier, but frozen veggies actually work better here. They release just the right amount of moisture while baking and keep their perfect texture. My favorite combo is peas and carrots, but corn or green beans work great too – whatever’s lurking in your freezer!
The stuffing mix matters
Not all stuffing mixes are created equal! I swear by the herb-seasoned or chicken-flavored varieties – they add so much flavor to the topping. If all you have is plain, mix in some poultry seasoning or dried herbs before sprinkling it on top.
Watch that golden crust
Every oven is different, so start checking at 20 minutes. You want that stuffing topping to be crispy and golden, but not burnt. If it’s browning too fast, just tent some foil over the top. And don’t worry if some spots get darker than others – that’s what gives it homemade charm!
Let it rest (if you can)
I know it smells incredible straight from the oven, but giving it 5 minutes to settle makes all the difference. The filling thickens up perfectly, and you won’t burn your mouth (learned that one the hard way!). Leftovers? Even better the next day – the flavors meld together beautifully.
There you have it – my tried-and-true tips for casserole success. Now go forth and comfort some hungry bellies! For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page.
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Easy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole – Comfort Food in 35 Min
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A simple and hearty casserole with tender chicken and savory stuffing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shredded chicken and mixed vegetables.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry stuffing mix evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup if preferred.
- Add shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
