Whenever I think of comfort food, the aroma of stuffing and chicken casserole bubbling away in the oven fills my mind. This dish is a warm hug on a plate, each bite a reminder of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Mama Lou, my grandmother, used to make a version of this casserole that would fill our home with the most inviting scents, drawing everyone to the table before it was even ready. Cooking alongside her, I learned that good food is about more than just ingredients—it’s about the love and memories infused in each dish. Today, I want to share my take on stuffing and chicken casserole, a recipe that has been shaped by years of family tradition and the heartfelt touch of my sister Ouma’s kitchen wisdom.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Stuffing and Chicken Casserole
This stuffing and chicken casserole is the perfect blend of savory and comforting flavors. It brings together tender pieces of chicken, fluffy stuffing, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re looking to recreate the nostalgia of family gatherings or simply want to enjoy a hearty meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and remember the special moments shared with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Stuffing and Chicken Casserole
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing if you prefer)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding vegetables like peas or carrots, or by using leftover turkey instead of chicken. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and soup.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 410 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
Hearty Comfort: Unveiling the Ultimate Stuffing and Chicken Casserole
Learn how to make delicious stuffing and chicken casserole. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing if you prefer)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding vegetables like peas or carrots, or by using leftover turkey instead of chicken. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and soup.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add the stuffing mix to the bowl, stirring gently to combine with the sauce and chicken mixture. Let the stuffing absorb the liquid for a few minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese layer to add a delicious golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Stuffing and Chicken Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add the stuffing mix to the bowl, stirring gently to combine with the sauce and chicken mixture. Let the stuffing absorb the liquid for a few minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese layer to add a delicious golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffing and Chicken Casserole
To make this dish truly shine, use high-quality chicken breast or leftover roast chicken for depth of flavor. Mama Lou always said, “The secret to a good casserole is in the balance of flavors and textures.” Make sure your stuffing is moist but not soggy, and adjust the seasoning to taste. You can also experiment with adding different herbs to the stuffing mix for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. I often serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce—something Mama Lou would always insist on. A light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s richness beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Reheat from frozen at a lower temperature, around 325°F, until it’s completely warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for stuffing and chicken casserole?
The main ingredients for stuffing and chicken casserole include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make stuffing and chicken casserole?
The total time to make stuffing and chicken casserole includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make stuffing and chicken casserole ahead of time?
Yes, stuffing and chicken casserole can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with stuffing and chicken casserole?
stuffing and chicken casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is stuffing and chicken casserole suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, stuffing and chicken casserole may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Stuffing and chicken casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt connection to family, tradition, and the joy of home-cooked food. Every time I make this dish, I feel Mama Lou’s presence in the kitchen, her laughter echoing as she and Ouma shared stories of their own culinary adventures. As you gather with your loved ones around the table, may this recipe bring you the same warmth and cherished memories that it has brought to my family over the years.
