Best Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chunks of chicken, fluffy stuffing, and a creamy sauce all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with just the right mix of textures—from the soft chicken to the crispy edges of the stuffing.
I love making this casserole when I want something that’s simple but special enough to share with family or friends. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize—whether you add some veggies like peas or carrots, or sprinkle a little cheese on top for extra flavor. It always turns out cozy and satisfying, no matter how you tweak it.
When I serve this dish, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the richness. It’s also perfect for those busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal that doesn’t take forever. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my kitchen because it feels like a classic comfort food that never gets old.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Using cooked chicken makes this recipe quick and easy. Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken both work well. For a lighter option, try skinless chicken breast.
Stuffing Mix: The seasoned stuffing mix adds great flavor and texture. Herb stuffing is classic, but cornbread stuffing adds a nice sweetness. Gluten-free stuffing mixes are a good swap if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates the creamy base. If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a simple homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These ingredients add richness and moisture. Greek yogurt is a great healthier substitute for sour cream, and light mayo works too.
Celery & Onion: They bring freshness and crunch. I like to sauté them first to soften and bring out their sweetness, but you can add them raw if you prefer more texture.
How Do You Get the Stuffing Topping Crispy and Golden?
The crispy topping is a highlight of this casserole! To achieve it:
- Sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly on top but don’t press it down – this keeps some air for crispness.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top to help the stuffing brown nicely.
- Bake uncovered so the heat crisps the stuffing instead of steaming it.
- Keep an eye on it near the end to avoid burning; if it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
This method gives you that satisfying crunch while keeping the inside creamy and tender. I find using butter and baking uncovered makes all the difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the casserole and bake it evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right amounts for a balanced flavor.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the mixture gently without breaking up the stuffing too much.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – handy to cover the casserole if the top browns too fast during baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey – especially nice to use leftover holiday meat for extra flavor.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms – adds a rich earthiness and makes it heartier.
- Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella before baking – melts into the creamy base for extra gooeyness.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary – brightens the dish with a fresh, aromatic touch.
How to Make the Best Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 package (6 ounces) seasoned stuffing mix (cornbread or herb stuffing)
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings & Toppings:
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes for resting before serving. So, plan for about 1 hour total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or spray it well with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients well until creamy and smooth.
3. Add Chicken and Veggies
Stir in the cooked chicken, diced celery, and diced onion. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and coated in the creamy sauce.
4. Fold in the Stuffing
Gently stir in the seasoned stuffing mix. Don’t overmix — just enough to coat the stuffing so it blends without losing its texture.
5. Bake for a Golden Finish
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle melted butter over the top to help the stuffing crisp up nicely in the oven. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
6. Rest and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set up. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Enjoy your warm, comforting chicken stuffing casserole—a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water, then pat dry before chopping and adding to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to mix in veggies like cooked mushrooms, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the casserole for the best texture.