Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Delicious and Comforting Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further than our made-from-scratch Chicken Stuffing Casserole! This dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy homemade sauce, all topped with savory stuffing and baked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a delicious dinner with leftovers to enjoy later, this casserole is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stuffing Casserole

This casserole is a true comfort food classic, bringing together flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table. The creamy sauce binds the dish together, while the stuffing topping adds a delightful crunch. With a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even switch out the chicken for turkey or another protein.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.

1 sweet onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 rib celery, chopped: Provides a crunchy texture.
1 carrot, chopped: Adds color and a slight sweetness.

1 Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced: Adds heartiness to the dish.
3 tablespoons butter: For creating the base of the creamy sauce.
3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce.

1 ½ cups chicken broth: Adds richness to the sauce.
1 cup half and half: Contributes to the creaminess of the sauce.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.

½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix, prepared as directed: Creates the crunchy, flavorful topping.
2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced: The main protein, providing heartiness to the dish.
⅔ cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
Chopped fresh parsley or rosemary (optional): For garnish and extra flavor.

Instructions

Preparing the Casserole

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9×11-inch (or equivalent) casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, chopped celery, carrots, and diced potato. Sauté until the onions and celery are soft, and the carrots and potatoes begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Gradually add the chicken broth and half and half, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Combine with Vegetables: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes until all the vegetables are just tender.
Prepare the Stuffing: While the vegetables are simmering, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions. Once cooked, cover it to keep warm.
Assemble the Casserole: Add the diced chicken and frozen peas to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Stir to combine. Pour the chicken-vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the prepared stuffing on top, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Garnish and Serve: If desired, top the casserole with chopped fresh parsley or rosemary for an added burst of flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Chop the Vegetables Evenly: For the best results, chop your vegetables into similar sizes so that they cook evenly.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, simply add a few extra tablespoons of chicken broth or half and half until you reach the desired consistency.
Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: For cheese lovers, sprinkle the top of the casserole with some finely grated Parmesan, Asiago, or cheddar cheese before baking.
Make It All in One Skillet: To save time and dishes, use an oven-safe skillet to make the sauce and bake the casserole in the same dish.
Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the casserole, so set a timer and keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
Versatile Protein Options: This recipe works well with any cooked, diced, or shredded chicken. You can also use turkey, ground beef, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole?
Yes! This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even poached chicken works well.

Can I freeze the Chicken Stuffing Casserole?
Absolutely. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with two layers of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What vegetables can I substitute?
Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave at reduced power, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I add cheese to the casserole?
Yes, if you’re a fan of cheesy casseroles, feel free to add a layer of grated cheese on top before baking.

Is it okay to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory stuffing topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a versatile dish that’s great for using up leftovers or tailoring to your family’s tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat.