Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that brings tender chicken pieces and flavorful stuffing together in one warm, cozy casserole. The chicken stays juicy while the stuffing soaks up all the tasty juices, making every bite satisfying and full of classic flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, welcoming hug on a plate.
I love making this dish when I want something simple but special enough to share with family or friends. One tip I’ve found helpful is to make sure the stuffing is nicely seasoned and even a little crispy on top for some great texture contrast. It’s also a perfect way to use up leftover stuffing from holidays or cook up a fresh batch from scratch. Either way, it never fails to make the whole house smell amazing while it’s baking.
My favorite way to serve Chicken and Stuffing Bake is alongside some steamed green veggies or a fresh salad for a bit of brightness. It’s the kind of dinner that gets everyone around the table chatting and smiling because it ticks all the comfort food boxes without any fuss. This dish always reminds me of cozy family dinners and the simple joy of good home cooking.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are juicier and also great here. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Stuffing: You can use boxed stuffing for convenience or homemade for more flavor. If gluten-free, try gluten-free bread or cornbread crumbs as the base.
Herbs (Sage & Thyme): Fresh herbs bring brightness, but dried work well too. If you don’t have sage, a little rosemary or parsley can add nice flavor. I like to add extra fresh thyme on top for color.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Cheese (optional): Cheddar or mozzarella are great melts. Feel free to skip if you prefer a dairy-free or less rich dish.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, brown it gently before baking and avoid overcooking:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Brown chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden but not cooked through.
- Bake covered with foil to trap moisture.
- Check internal temperature; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest after baking to reabsorb juices.
This method seals in flavor and prevents dryness, so every bite is tender and moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like it because it holds everything nicely and bakes evenly.
- Large skillet – makes browning the chicken and cooking the sauce easy and quick.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping the onion and garlic with no mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps get the sauce ingredients just right.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish while baking so it stays moist and tender.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded turkey instead of chicken for a different twist on leftovers or holiday meals.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or chopped spinach into the stuffing for more veggies and flavor.
- Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or Swiss into the stuffing before topping for extra gooeyness.
- Replace heavy cream with sour cream or cream cheese for a tangy, creamy variation.
Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
For The Topping:
- 6 cups prepared stuffing (from a box mix or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 35-40 minutes to bake, allowing the chicken to cook through and the stuffing to get golden on top. Plan for a total of around 50-55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden. They don’t have to be fully cooked yet. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Using the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until softened (around 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in sage and thyme. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Place browned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the creamy sauce evenly over them. Spread the prepared stuffing over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese if you’re using it. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Finish Baking:
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the stuffing is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
Enjoy this tasty Chicken and Stuffing Bake with your favorite veggies or a green salad for a cozy, satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I Make Chicken and Stuffing Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish through step 8, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the dish is cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
Steamed green vegetables, roasted carrots, or a fresh crisp salad pair perfectly to balance the richness of the bake.
