Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is just the kind of meal that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. You get tender chicken breasts baked right on top of fluffy, flavorful stuffing that soaks up all those delicious juices as it cooks. It’s simple, comforting, and made with ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
I love making this when I want something that’s both satisfying and hands-off. You can prep it in minutes, pop it in the oven, and then relax while the house fills up with those warm, homey smells. It’s one of those recipes that always makes dinner time feel special without any extra fuss. I also like adding a little extra seasoning to the stuffing or topping it with some melted cheese for a bit of extra flavor.
Serving this with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies makes it a well-rounded meal that feels just right. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, so it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or easy lunches the next day. I always think of this dish as a quick shortcut to comfort food that brings everyone to the table with happy smiles.
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless and skinless chicken breasts keeps things simple and lean. You can swap with thighs if you prefer juicier meat—they work well too and add extra flavor.
Stuffing mix: The herb-seasoned stuffing mix adds great flavor and texture. If you don’t have it, plain breadcrumbs with added herbs (like sage, thyme, and rosemary) make a good homemade substitute.
Cream of chicken soup: This creamy base keeps the chicken moist. For a lighter option, try cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce.
Sour cream: It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. You can use Greek yogurt if you want a healthier alternative without losing creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice bold flavor topping. Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a combo for a milder or stretchier cheese layer.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy While Baking?
Keeping the chicken moist is key! Here’s how:
- Season well to boost flavor inside and out.
- Coat chicken with the creamy soup mixture; it locks moisture in while baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—space lets heat circulate evenly.
- Cover loosely with foil for the first 30 mins if worried about the top drying out, then uncover to brown the stuffing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F means perfectly cooked and safe.
Following these tips helps the chicken stay tender under that delicious stuffing topping!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and layering the chicken and stuffing.
- Mixing bowls – at least two; one for stuffing prep and one for mixing the soup and sour cream.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right without any guesswork.
- Spoon or spatula – for spreading the soup mixture and stuffing evenly over the chicken.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps you check the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced apples into the stuffing for extra texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar if you want a little spicy kick in your bake.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits or ham cubes into the stuffing for smoky, meaty flavor.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package (6 oz) herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp dried parsley or mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 to 50 minutes to bake. After baking, give it a few minutes to rest so the flavors blend nicely. In total, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Stuffing:
In a medium bowl, prepare the stuffing mix following the package instructions but replace half the liquid with chicken broth or water for extra flavor. Stir in the melted butter, diced celery, and diced onion if you’re using it.
3. Arrange and Season Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and dried parsley or mixed herbs to add lovely seasoning.
4. Mix Creamy Sauce:
In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth. This creamy mix will keep the chicken tender and add great flavor.
5. Layer the Bake:
Spread the soup and sour cream mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well covered. Then, gently spoon the prepared stuffing mixture over the top, pressing it down slightly so it fully covers each chicken piece.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffing. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temp of 165°F or 75°C) and the stuffing turns a crispy golden brown on top.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the dish out and let it rest a few minutes. This waiting time helps the dish set nicely and allows flavors to come together. Serve warm with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps keep the chicken juicy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bake a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead for a different twist. Alternatively, make a homemade white sauce if you prefer a fresher, less processed option.
