Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a comforting, one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken breasts, flavorful stuffing, and a golden, crispy top. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The chicken stays tender and juicy while soaking up the rich flavors from the stuffing mix and seasonings.
I love how simple this recipe is—just a handful of ingredients that come together quickly with minimal fuss. One of my favorite things about this bake is that it’s mostly hands-off once it’s in the oven, leaving me time to relax or prepare a quick side without standing over the stove. If you like, you can add a bit of cream or broth to the stuffing mix for extra moisture, which makes it even more delicious and hearty.
When I serve this dish, I usually pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s the kind of meal that everyone seems to enjoy, no matter their age, which makes it perfect for family dinners or having friends over. Plus, leftovers taste great the next day—just pop them in the oven or microwave, and you have a quick, satisfying lunch ready to go.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work great too—they add extra flavor and stay juicy.
Stuffing mix: Using a boxed stuffing mix makes this recipe super easy. You can choose herb-flavored for more depth or classic for simple comfort. If you want to go homemade, use stale bread with your favorite herbs.
Chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor to the stuffing. If you don’t have broth, water works, but broth really boosts the taste.
Onion and celery: These veggies add freshness and texture to the stuffing. You can swap celery for carrots or bell peppers for a different twist.
Butter and olive oil: Butter adds richness, while olive oil keeps things light. I often blend both for the best flavor and texture in the pan and stuffing.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and the Stuffing Crisp?
Searing the chicken first is key. It locks in moisture and gives a nice color. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re short on time.
- Heat the skillet and sear chicken 2-3 minutes each side — just enough to brown but not cook through.
- Cover the chicken with the moist stuffing mixture in the baking dish so it cooks evenly.
- Baking at 375°F helps the chicken cook through while the stuffing crisps on top.
- Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking; this helps juices redistribute and the stuffing set a bit.
Following these steps makes sure your chicken stays tender and the stuffing deliciously crispy on top without drying out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for cooking chicken and stuffing evenly without crowding.
- Large mixing bowl – for mixing the stuffing ingredients easily without spilling.
- Skillet or frying pan – great for searing chicken to lock in juices and add flavor.
- Measuring cups – to accurately add broth, water, and melted butter to your stuffing mix.
- Spoon or spatula – helpful for spooning and spreading the stuffing over the chicken.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat; they stay juicy and add richer flavor.
- Add diced apples or dried cranberries to the stuffing for a touch of sweetness and festive flair.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers to boost veggie content and add earthiness.
- Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella before baking for a melty, creamy texture.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Stuffing Mix Components:
- 1 (6 oz) box of stuffing mix (herb-flavored or classic)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, for a total of roughly 45-50 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes searing the chicken and mixing the stuffing, then let the oven do the work. A short resting time after baking makes it even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden but aren’t fully cooked yet. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Mix the Stuffing:
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with finely chopped onion and celery. Pour in the chicken broth, water, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the stuffing is evenly moistened.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over and around the chicken, mostly covering it. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the stuffing on top is golden and crispy.
4. Rest and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes —this helps the juices settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then serve while warm.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture and sear the chicken a day ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving. Keep the stuffed dish covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Stuffing?
Yes! Adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even diced apples can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just mix them into the stuffing before baking for a delicious twist.