Easy Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Easy Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy sauce all baked into a bubbly, golden casserole. It’s a…

By Julia • November 5, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Easy Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and a creamy sauce all baked into a bubbly, golden casserole. It’s a simple meal with familiar flavors that make it perfect for busy weeknights or even holiday leftovers made extra special.

I love making this casserole when I want something that feels like a hug in food form but doesn’t take hours to prepare. Using pre-made stuffing or a quick homemade version means I can pull it together fast, and the chicken adds just the right amount of protein to keep everyone happy. Plus, the crispy topping is always a favorite around my house!

My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to balance out the hearty dish. It’s one of those meals that always brings everyone to the table, sharing stories and laughing while the casserole works its magic. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, I promise it’s an easy, flavorful meal that will quickly become a family staple.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works best here for a lean protein boost. Rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut and adds great flavor. You can also use cooked thighs if you like a juicier bite.

Stuffing Mix: Herb-seasoned dry stuffing mix adds classic flavor and crunch. If you don’t have this, homemade bread cubes toasted with herbs work well too. Gluten-free stuffing mixes are great for dietary needs.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates the creamy base of the casserole. If you want to avoid canned soups, try a simple homemade white sauce with chicken broth, butter, and flour instead.

Vegetables: Onion and celery add good flavor and texture after a quick sauté. Carrots are optional but bring a subtle sweetness. Feel free to add frozen peas or corn for variety.

Herbs & Cheese: Dried sage or poultry seasoning lifts the dish with warm flavors. Fresh parsley on top brightens it up. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty crunch but is optional.

How Do I Get the Stuffing Topping Crispy and Delicious?

One of the best parts of this casserole is the crunchy, golden stuffing crust. Getting this right makes the dish extra special. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a dry stuffing mix or slightly toast the bread cubes before mixing.
• Don’t add too much liquid—just enough to moisten the stuffing but keep it from getting soggy.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
• Bake uncovered so steam can escape and the topping crisps.
• Check the casserole during the last 5-10 minutes; if you want it crispier, switch to broil briefly but watch closely to avoid burning.

Following these tips will reward you with a beautifully textured top that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken and creamy base.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
• Large mixing bowl – helps you combine all ingredients evenly without mess.
• Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing onions, celery, and carrots to add flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially broth and soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – ideal for stirring the mixture without breaking the bread chunks.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken with cooked turkey for a delicious twist, especially with leftovers.
• Mix in cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and earthy flavors.
• Add cheese like shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside for a gooey, melty surprise.
• Spice it up with a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for mild heat and smoky depth.

Easy Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 (12 oz) package herb-seasoned dry stuffing mix (or homemade stuffing cubes)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (or poultry seasoning)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For The Topping:

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend roughly 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy a warm, tasty casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Vegetables:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, until veggies are soft and smelling delicious.

2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so the stuffing is moistened and mixed evenly.

3. Assemble and Bake:

Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. If you’d like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust. Bake uncovered in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole bubbles and the top is golden brown.

4. Garnish and Serve:

Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken as long as it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave. This helps ensure even cooking and keeps the casserole moist.

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating helps keep it moist.

What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?

If you prefer to avoid canned soup, try making a quick homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth. This keeps the casserole creamy and flavorful without added preservatives.