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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you’ve got to try this Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory chicken mixed with comforting stuffing topped with a golden, buttery crust. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering, this casserole turns simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again and again. Plus, it’s straightforward to make with minimal fuss, so you get maximum flavor with hardly any stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich cream soups that create a silky, indulgent base to the chicken and veggies that add heartiness and color, every component plays an important role in making this casserole a satisfying meal.
- Cream of chicken soup: Acts as the creamy foundation, adding savory richness without any extra effort.
- Cream of celery soup: Adds subtle flavor and depth, but feel free to swap it with cream of chicken if you prefer.
- Chicken broth: Thins the mixture just enough to keep it comforting and moist.
- Cooked chicken: The star protein that makes this dish hearty and filling.
- Stuffing mix: The secret to that crispy, buttery topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy casserole.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the stuffing mix, giving it that golden crunch and rich flavor.
- Garlic powder, salt & pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every bite without overwhelming the palate.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and subtle herbal brightness to finish off each serving.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Add texture, nutrition, and a splash of color.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for an extra melty, savory layer of yum.
- Dried thyme or poultry seasoning: Introduces subtle earthy notes that elevate the casserole to something special.
How to Make Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will develop that lovely golden crust without any hassle later on.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and chicken broth with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination blends into the ultimate creamy sauce that will coat every morsel of chicken and veggies perfectly, setting the stage for comfort on a plate.
Step 3: Fold in Chicken and Extras
Gently stir in the cooked chicken along with your frozen mixed vegetables and shredded cheddar cheese if using. These ingredients not only bulk up the casserole but make it colorful and satisfying. The cheese adds that irresistible melty texture that everyone loves.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter until it’s evenly moistened. This mixture will become your crunchy, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s creamy interior.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour your chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Then carefully sprinkle the buttery stuffing mix all over the top, covering the entire surface. This layered approach ensures you get a delicious bite of both creamy filling and crispy topping every time.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the stuffing topping turns an inviting golden brown. The baking melds the flavors together and gives you that cozy, homey feeling with every forkful.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This little wait helps it set up so you get neat slices. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a lovely burst of green and a layer of fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
How to Serve Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Parsley is the classic choice, adding a vibrant color contrast and a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. For a bit more flair, consider a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions to boost texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this casserole is that it’s quite a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or roasted root vegetables complements the richness beautifully. A bright side helps balance the creamy, buttery flavors for a well-rounded dinner experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for single servings at a dinner party. You can also layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase the colorful veggies and cheese in contrast with the golden stuffing topping, adding visual appeal right to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, let any leftovers cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For individual servings, the microwave works well too—just cover loosely and heat on medium power to keep the topping from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred or dice your chicken before adding it to the casserole. Using cooked chicken helps keep the dish from getting watery and ensures even cooking.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream soups with dairy-free alternatives or homemade soups, and use dairy-free butter and cheese to keep things creamy and flavorful without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorites like chopped mushrooms, spinach, or diced carrots. Just adjust cooking time if you add fresh vegetables that take longer to tenderize.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe is mild and family-friendly by default, but you can add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños if you like a little kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can! Substitute the regular stuffing mix with a gluten-free version and verify that your soups and broth are gluten-free as well to keep this tasty casserole safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Final Thoughts
This Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, joyful celebration of comfort food. It’s quick, approachable, and perfect for bringing loved ones around the table. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic that’s easy to customize and always satisfying. Give it a go and watch it become a new family favorite!
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Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy & Cozy Chicken & Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. Featuring tender cooked chicken, creamy soups, and a buttery stuffing topping, this casserole combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. With added mixed vegetables and cheddar cheese, it’s a balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Soup Mixture
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup (or substitute with another cream of chicken soup)
- 1¼ cups chicken broth
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp dried thyme or poultry seasoning
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Stuffing Topping
- 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Soup Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and chicken broth until smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or poultry seasoning, stirring to combine all flavors evenly.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Fold in the cooked shredded or diced chicken along with the frozen mixed vegetables and shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter, mixing until the stuffing is fully moistened.
- Top Casserole: Spread the buttered stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetable layer in the casserole dish, creating a uniform topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of celery soup with an additional can of cream of chicken soup if desired.
- Feel free to swap frozen mixed vegetables with fresh vegetables, but adjust baking time accordingly.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
