Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and savory stuffing in one easy pan. The crispy top of the stuffing contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken underneath, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this dish when I’m looking for something simple but still special enough to share with family or friends. The best part is all the flavors blend so well during baking, and sometimes I like to add a little extra seasoning or some veggies to the stuffing mix for a personal touch. It’s a flexible recipe that you can easily make your own.
Serving this bake with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad makes for a complete, balanced meal that everyone enjoys. I always appreciate that I can prepare it ahead of time and then just pop it in the oven when I’m ready. It’s the kind of dinner that feels homemade and cozy, perfect for a quiet night in or a casual gathering.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts cook evenly and stay juicy in this bake. If you like, you can swap for thighs—they’re a bit more forgiving and tender.
Stuffing mix: The herb stuffing mix adds great flavor and texture. If you prefer gluten-free, look for a gluten-free breadcrumb option or use cooked quinoa as a substitute.
Cream of chicken soup: This gives the bake creamy richness. For a lighter twist, use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. You could also swap for plain Greek yogurt for a tangier creaminess.
Sour cream and mayonnaise: These help keep the mixture moist and add tangy flavor. If you want, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and light mayo to reduce calories.
How to Get the Stuffing Crispy but Not Burnt?
Getting the stuffing top crispy without burning can be tricky. Here’s what helps:
- Spread the stuffing evenly over the chicken and sauce to avoid dry spots.
- Use melted butter for richness and browning.
- If the top starts browning too fast, cover the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F so the stuffing crisps nicely while the chicken cooks through.
- For extra crunch, add a sprinkle of panko or shredded cheese on top in the last 10 minutes.
These steps will give you that golden, crispy topping with tender, juicy chicken underneath. It’s all about balancing time and temperature!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like it because it’s the perfect size for even cooking and doesn’t get too crowded.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine the soup, broth, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Oven mitts and utensil spatula – for safe handling and serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat that stays tender.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Swiss, on top for a cheesy crust.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for added richness and savoriness.
Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) dry herb stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40–45 minutes to bake. Allow a few extra minutes for the dish to cool before serving, so everything sets nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Season your chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage. Set them aside while you mix the sauce.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended.
3. Arrange and Coat the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in the baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, covering it thoroughly to keep the meat moist as it bakes.
4. Prepare and Add the Stuffing:
Make the stuffing mix in a separate bowl according to the package instructions, but use melted butter instead of oil or regular butter. Skip adding water or broth so the stuffing stays flavorful and slightly crumbly. Spread the stuffing evenly on top of the chicken and sauce layer.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is golden brown and crispy on top. If the stuffing starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil halfway through baking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like, then serve. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake up to the point before baking, cover it 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 refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through for the best texture and flavor.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Bake?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even cooked carrots can be mixed into the creamy sauce or stuffing before baking for extra nutrition and flavor.
