Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Stuffing Casserole, where juicy chicken tenderloins meet creamy soups and savory stuffing. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love. With its ease of preparation and hearty taste, it’s no wonder this casserole quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Every time I make Chicken Stuffing Casserole, my family lights up with excitement. One chilly autumn evening, I decided to prepare this dish to warm our hearts and bellies. As the casserole baked, the mouthwatering aroma filled our home, drawing everyone into the kitchen. My husband and kids eagerly gathered around the table, ready to dig in. With every spoonful, laughter and compliments flowed, and soon we were sharing our favorite memories tied to family dinners. This casserole has since become a tradition in our household, a dish we look forward to enjoying together, creating new memories around the dinner table.
Why This Chicken Stuffing Casserole?
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Just toss, mix, and bake!
- Hearty & Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauces makes for a filling meal that satisfies the whole family.
- Savory Stuffing Topping: The Stove Top stuffing adds a delightful crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken base.
- Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition or switch up the soups for a different flavor profile.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or easy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 900 g (2 pounds) chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 g (½ teaspoon) kosher salt
- 2 g (½ teaspoon) black pepper
- 300 g (10.5 ounces) cream of celery soup
- 300 g (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 60 mL (¼ cup) milk
- 170 g (6 ounces) box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
- 360 mL (1 ½ cups) chicken broth (see notes below)
- Fresh or dried parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray. - Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in the baking dish. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, tossing to coat. - Make the Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth. - Combine and Layer:
Pour the sauce over the seasoned chicken, ensuring all pieces are well covered. Evenly sprinkle the Stove Top stuffing mix over the top of the chicken and sauce layer. - Add Broth:
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the stuffing mix, making sure all the stuffing is moistened. - Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to lightly brown. (Note: Cooking times may vary depending on your oven. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.) - Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh or dried parsley if desired. When serving, scoop some of the delicious gravy from the bottom of the dish over each serving for added flavor.
Notes:
- Substitutions: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. Feel free to swap the cream soups with your favorite flavors for a twist.
- Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition, consider stirring in some frozen peas or mixed vegetables before baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
This Chicken Stuffing Casserole is sure to become a comforting classic in your home, just as it is in ours. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!