Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and flavorful stuffing all baked in one pan. The chicken stays juicy, while the stuffing gets nicely crispy on top—making it the perfect mix of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this recipe on busy weeknights because it doesn’t take much effort but still feels special enough for the whole family. One of my favorite tricks is to add a little extra butter or cheese on top of the stuffing before baking to get it extra golden and tasty. It’s one of those meals that just makes everyone ask for seconds.
When I serve this dish, I like to add some steamed green veggies or a fresh salad on the side to brighten up the plate. It’s a crowd-pleaser that I always turn to when I want a hearty, fuss-free dinner that still feels cozy and homey. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, which is always a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I use boneless, skinless breasts because they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want a richer, more moist option.
Stuffing mix: Herb-flavored boxed stuffing keeps this easy. If avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free stuffing or substitute with cooked quinoa or rice for a similar texture.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and moisture. For a lighter version, try cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. Dairy-free soups work too.
Sour cream: Sour cream adds a slight tang and creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute to lighten it up.
Butter & olive oil: Both add flavor and help browning. You can use all olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.
How Do You Get Crispy Stuffing While Keeping Chicken Juicy?
The key is layering and timing:
- First, sear the chicken in a hot pan just until browned—this locks the juices inside.
- Spread the stuffing on top and pour the creamy sauce evenly. The sauce keeps both chicken and stuffing moist underneath.
- Cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time to trap steam and cook the chicken through without drying it out.
- Remove the foil near the end to let the stuffing crisp up in the oven’s dry heat.
- Let the bake rest a few minutes before serving to keep everything juicy and let flavors settle.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – great for searing chicken and sautéing onions before baking.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining soups, sour cream, and broth smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help keep ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
- Aluminum foil – used to cover the dish during baking to keep chicken moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you like juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers to the stuffing for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the stuffing before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Sprinkle dried sage or thyme over the top to boost the herb flavor when you want a more fall-inspired taste.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (6 oz) herb-flavored stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake, including the time to sear the chicken and let the flavors come together. Plan for about an hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove from heat.
2. Mix the Sauces
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Assemble the Bake
Place the seared chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the herb-flavored stuffing mix evenly over the chicken. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the top, making sure everything is well covered. Drizzle the melted butter evenly on top of the stuffing.
4. Bake and Finish
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffing turns golden brown and crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a comforting, well-rounded meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the fridge overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety. Pat them dry before searing for the best results.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire bake up to the point of baking, cover tightly, 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 fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the chicken tender and the stuffing crispy.
Can I Substitute the Stuffing Mix?
Yes! If you want to skip boxed stuffing, try using cooked rice, quinoa, or homemade bread cubes seasoned with herbs. Just keep in mind the texture and moisture levels may vary slightly.