Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a classic comfort meal that brings together juicy, tender chicken pieces baked right on top of a flavorful, herb-filled stuffing. It’s everything you love about a cozy Sunday dinner packed into one easy dish, with the perfect mix of crispy edges and soft, satisfying bites.
I love making this when I want something that feels like a warm hug on a plate. There’s something about the way the chicken stays juicy while the stuffing soaks up all those delicious juices during baking—that combo is unbeatable. I usually add extra herbs like sage or rosemary because those little touches make the whole dish taste like a family feast.
My favorite way to serve this is just as it comes out of the oven, maybe with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies on the side. It’s one of those recipes that seems a little fancy but is actually really easy to throw together, making it great for a weekday dinner or a casual weekend get-together. I always find myself thinking about leftover sandwiches the next day too—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works great here, but you can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Dark meat like thighs adds more moisture and flavor if you prefer juicier bites.
Stuffing Mix: Store-bought stuffing mix keeps the recipe simple. Homemade stuffing is delicious too — just make sure it’s not too wet before baking. For gluten-free, try a cornbread-based stuffing.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels, or vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Optional for creaminess. You can skip this or swap with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Herbs (Sage, Thyme, Parsley): These classic herbs bring that cozy, familiar flavor. Fresh herbs work wonderfully if you have them on hand, especially fresh sage.
How to Get Your Chicken and Stuffing Bake Moist and Flavorful?
The secret is in balancing moisture and seasoning. Follow these tips for a tasty result:
- Sauté the onion and garlic first to deepen their flavor before mixing with stuffing.
- Add chicken broth and melted butter to keep the stuffing moist but not soggy.
- If adding sour cream or cream cheese, stir it in well to spread creaminess evenly.
- Don’t overmix after adding broth—stir gently to maintain light texture.
- Bake uncovered so the top crisps up, but don’t bake too long to avoid drying.
Let it rest a few minutes after baking — this helps flavors settle and makes serving easier. With a juicy filling and crispy top, this bake feels just right every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits the mixture perfectly and bakes evenly.
- Medium skillet – for sautéing onions and garlic; it’s the best for flavorful, evenly cooked veggies.
- Large mixing bowl – helps you combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure your seasonings and liquids are just right.
- Spatula or large spoon – for mixing and spreading the filling smoothly in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked turkey or ham instead of chicken for a different flavor twist.
- Add sliced mushrooms or chopped celery for extra texture and depth.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Swiss for a cheesy top or filling.
- Swap herbs—try basil, rosemary, or thyme depending on your taste preferences or season.
Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 6 cups prepared stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking onions and garlic)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 to 40 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a warm, delicious Chicken and Stuffing Bake ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Preheat:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In a medium skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the prepared stuffing mix, cooked chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, dried sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so the flavors blend well.
4. Add Broth and Butter:
Pour in the chicken broth and melted butter. If you want it creamier, stir in sour cream or cream cheese here. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined and moist, but not soggy.
5. Bake the Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered in the oven for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the stuffing is hot all the way through and the top turns golden brown and a bit crispy.
6. Rest and Garnish:
When it’s done, take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop out generous portions, serve warm, and savor this comforting Chicken and Stuffing Bake—perfect for any cozy meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the stuffing mix.
Can I Make This Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
Yes! Chopped mushrooms, celery, or carrots work great. Sauté them with the onion and garlic before mixing everything together to keep them tender and flavorful.
