The Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is the ultimate cozy comfort food that brings together juicy chicken breasts nestled under a blanket of flavorful stuffing and creamy sauce. This dish not only delivers incredible taste but also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and promises a satisfying meal that everyone will love, combining tender chicken, herby stuffing, and a rich, creamy layer that keeps each bite delightful and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward and essential ingredients is your first step toward a joyful cooking experience. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that defines the Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and succulent when baked.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor): Adds a crispy, flavorful topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Hydrates the stuffing mix to the perfect consistency.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: Provides a smooth, rich sauce that complements the chicken and stuffing.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory warmth throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts golden on top, adding a cheesy layer that’s pure indulgence.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the look and taste.
How to Make Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, giving you a smooth release for serving later.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 1/2 cups of hot water. Let it sit for a few minutes so the stuffing absorbs the moisture and becomes delightfully tender and fluffy—this texture is key for the topping.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy—the sauce is the flavor backbone that keeps the chicken juicy and infuses the bake with deliciousness.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly over the top. Next, spoon the prepared stuffing evenly over the sauce, and if you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on last. This layering creates a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through gently. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, the stuffing to be golden and crisp on top, and all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe rest for a few minutes. This resting time lets the juices settle so your chicken stays moist when serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, to add a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic choice to top off this bake, adding a lovely green contrast and fresh herb flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or even a dash of paprika for a colorful finish.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad. Roasted carrots or green beans tossed with a bit of garlic butter also add a delicious, nutritious complement to the hearty bake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive look, serve the bake on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of cranberry sauce or apple chutney beside it. This adds a seasonal twist and brightens the plate. Alternatively, individual portions served in ramekins with a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate your presentation game.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps the flavors to mellow even more, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the bake before or after cooking. If freezing before, assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, which keeps the texture crisp. Alternatively, microwave portions work well for a quick meal, but the oven helps retain the bake’s wonderful crisp topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Turkey breasts or tender pork chops can be great substitutes. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through and juicy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt, and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade sauce. You can also omit cheese or use a non-dairy cheese.
What stuffing mix flavors work best?
Traditional herb stuffing is a classic choice, but you can experiment with cornbread, sage and onion, or even savory garlic blends depending on your taste preferences for a unique twist.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the dish and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for a convenient and stress-free dinner option.
How can I make the stuffing topping extra crispy?
For extra crispy stuffing, remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking and broil on low for 1-2 minutes while watching carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a wonderful, comforting dish to share with your loved ones, the Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe is a surefire winner. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
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Chicken Stuffing Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Stuffing Bake is a comforting, all-in-one meal featuring tender baked chicken breasts topped with flavorful stuffing and a creamy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines a savory blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and seasonings, all baked to golden perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Stuffing
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (any flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, mix the stuffing mix with 1 1/2 cups of hot water. Stir well and allow it to sit for a few minutes so the stuffing can absorb the water and soften.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Spread the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Then, top with the prepared stuffing, spreading it out evenly. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the stuffing layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing turns golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the bake rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use any flavor of stuffing mix depending on your preference; herb or classic poultry flavors work best.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Adding cheese is optional but adds a nice melty, savory layer on top of the stuffing.
- Try serving with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
