Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with flavorful stuffing all baked together in one dish. It’s a great mix of tender meat and crispy, golden topping that makes every bite satisfying. This recipe is all about ease and deliciousness with ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
I love making this when I want a meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss but still feels like a special dinner. The best part is how the stuffing soaks up the chicken juices, making it extra tasty and moist. I usually use a ready-made stuffing mix to keep things quick, but you can also jazz it up with some added herbs or bits of cooked vegetables.
This bake is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. I often serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies on the side to keep things balanced. It’s one of those dishes that warms you up and fills you up without much effort, and I find that everyone loves it, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless and skinless chicken makes this bake simple and quick. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work well and stay juicy.
Stuffing mix: A ready-made box stuffing saves time and adds classic flavor. For a healthier option, try whole-grain or gluten-free stuffing.
Chicken broth: This keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful. You can substitute vegetable broth if you want a lighter taste or need a meat-free option.
Sour cream or cream of chicken soup: Both add creaminess and help bind the stuffing. Greek yogurt is a nice substitute for sour cream if you want less fat.
Onion and celery: These add nice flavor and texture to the stuffing. Feel free to leave out celery if you don’t have it, or add other veggies like bell peppers.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and the Stuffing Crispy?
Balancing moist chicken with a crisp topping can be tricky, but here’s how I do it:
- Start by sautéing onions and celery to add flavor and prevent sogginess.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This traps steam, which cooks the chicken evenly and keeps it moist.
- Remove the foil toward the end so the stuffing can brown and get crispy on top.
- Drizzling melted butter on the stuffing before baking helps with a golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
Following these steps will give you tender chicken and a crunchy, flavorful stuffing every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough to hold chicken and stuffing without spilling.
- Large skillet – perfect for sautéing onions and celery to add flavor to the stuffing.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the stuffing mix with broth and sour cream easily.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure the chicken is cooked safely and stays juicy.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish during baking to keep moisture in before crisping the topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want meat that’s more tender and juicy.
- Stir in cooked sausage or bacon bits to add a smoky, savory flavor.
- Add chopped apples or dried cranberries to the stuffing for a touch of sweetness.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box (about 6 oz) prepared stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 50-55 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes sautéing vegetables and assembling the dish, then baking until the chicken is tender and the stuffing is golden and crisp.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and celery in a little butter or oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This adds flavor and moisture to your stuffing.
3. Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Mix the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared stuffing mix, sautéed onion and celery, chicken broth, and sour cream (or cream of chicken soup). Stir until everything is well blended.
5. Assemble the Bake
Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure to cover the top completely. Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing for a golden finish.
6. Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the stuffing topping is crisp and golden.
7. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh or dried parsley over the top for a bright finishing touch. Serve hot with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your comforting and easy chicken and stuffing bake!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method in a sealed bag to speed up the process. This helps ensure even cooking and juicy results.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to eat, bake it covered for a bit longer until the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature and the stuffing is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating can help keep the chicken moist.
Can I Substitute Sour Cream With Something Else?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, cream of chicken soup, or even cream cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind this might affect the creaminess slightly.