Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, flavorful stuffing, and a touch of creamy sauce all baked together in one pan. The stuffing crisps up on top while the chicken stays tender and moist underneath, making every bite satisfying and cozy.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty without too much fuss. It’s one of those go-to recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, especially on chilly nights. I usually use store-bought stuffing mix to keep it quick, but you can always add your favorite herbs or a handful of veggies for extra flavor. It’s so easy to prepare, and it feels like a special meal even on busy days.
One of my favorite ways to serve this bake is with a big side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to lighten things up. Leftovers also make great sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day. I find that this dish brings everyone around the table with smiles because it’s both tasty and fuss-free, perfect for sharing during family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great here for quick cooking and easy slicing. If you prefer, thighs work too—they stay juicier and add more flavor.
Stuffing mix: I like herb-flavored for that classic taste. If you can’t find it, plain bread crumbs with added dried herbs like sage or thyme work well too.
Cream of chicken soup: This makes the dish creamy and binds it together. For a lighter option, try low-fat or use a homemade white sauce with chicken broth and a little flour.
Chicken broth & water: Keep these for moisture. If you want bolder flavor, swap water for extra broth or a splash of white wine.
Butter: Melting it over the stuffing helps create that golden, crispy top. You can use olive oil for a dairy-free version, though butter adds the best classic flavor.
How Do I Get the Stuffing Crispy on Top Without Drying Out the Chicken?
The key is in the timing and covering. Start by baking the dish covered with foil to trap steam, which keeps the chicken juicy and lets the flavors mix.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes first.
- Remove the foil afterward to let direct heat brown the stuffing.
- Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the top is nicely golden and crispy.
- If the stuffing browns too quickly, tent with foil again for the last few minutes.
This two-step bake ensures you get a tender, creamy layer underneath with a perfectly crunchy topping. I find using melted butter on top helps achieve a beautiful color and that delicious, slightly crunchy texture everyone loves.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering chicken and stuffing evenly without overflow.
- Large mixing bowl – to combine soup, broth, and chicken easily without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you keep the right liquid-to-stuffing ratio for moist, tender results.
- Aluminum foil – essential to cover the bake for the first part of cooking to lock in moisture.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing ingredients gently without breaking up the chicken too much.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for cooked turkey for a holiday twist that uses leftovers well.
- Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella under the stuffing for extra gooeyness.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or chopped green beans with the chicken mixture for more veggies and texture.
- Sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or garlic powder into the soup mixture to boost flavor with a simple spice change.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
- 1 package (about 6 oz) stuffing mix (herb-flavored preferred)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish prep takes about 10-15 minutes to mix and assemble. Baking takes 40-45 minutes total: 30 minutes covered to keep it moist, then 10-15 minutes uncovered for a crispy topping. All in all, plan on about an hour from start to table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the bake from sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce and Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and water until smooth. Add the cooked, cubed chicken and stir gently to combine everything.
3. Assemble the Bake:
Pour the chicken and soup mixture evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle the stuffing mix right on top, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing to help it get golden and crispy.
4. Bake Covered then Uncovered:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the stuffing is nicely browned and crisp.
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle dried parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color. Serve hot with your favorite steamed veggies or a light salad for a perfect comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking and cubing it. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method to speed things up.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it looks dry.
What Can I Serve With Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad to balance the creamy, hearty bake.
