Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and flavorful, crispy stuffing all in one pan. It’s a great mix of juicy chicken with that classic herby stuffing taste and a little bit of golden crunch on top. This is the kind of meal that feels warm and homey from the first bite.
I love making this when I want something filling but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. The best part is how easy it is to put together—just layer the chicken and stuffing, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. I usually add a little melted butter on top to get that extra crispy crust. It’s a real crowd-pleaser at my house, especially on busy weeknights or casual weekends.
When I serve this, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s perfect straight out of the oven, warm and ready to enjoy with minimal fuss. This bake always reminds me of quick family dinners where everyone comes together, happy to have good food without the complicated steps.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and easy eating. You can swap for thighs if you like juicier meat, just check they cook through.
Stuffing Mix: Using a herb-seasoned boxed stuffing saves time and adds great flavor. If you prefer homemade, use bread cubes with sage, thyme, and onion.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This helps make the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try cream of mushroom, or use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of broth.
Chicken Broth & Milk: They keep the chicken moist and help the stuffing absorb flavor. You can swap milk for a dairy-free option like almond milk if needed.
Melted Butter: This adds crispness to the stuffing topping. Margarine or olive oil can work too if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Stuffing Topping Crispy Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Balancing a crispy stuffing top with juicy chicken is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Pour the soup and broth mix over the chicken first to keep it moist.
- Gently press the prepared stuffing on top so it forms a layer but isn’t packed too tightly.
- Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing to encourage browning.
- Bake uncovered so steam can escape. This helps the top dry out enough to crisp while the chicken stays juicy.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/75°C) to avoid overcooking.
Following these steps gives you a nicely browned, crunchy topping and tender chicken inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering chicken and stuffing in one pan.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one for the soup mixture and another to prepare the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate liquid and seasoning amounts.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to mix ingredients gently without crushing the stuffing.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add chopped cooked apples or dried cranberries in the stuffing for a sweet touch.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella under the stuffing for gooey richness.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or green beans to add veggie goodness and more texture.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (6 oz) box herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40 to 45 minutes to bake. Let it stand for an extra 5 minutes before serving. So, from start to finish, set aside roughly 1 hour for a warm, delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange and Season Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Season each breast evenly with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, and chicken broth. Stir well until smooth and blended.
4. Pour Sauce Over Chicken:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, covering them gently.
5. Prepare and Add Stuffing:
In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, use the broth mixture instead of water. Then spread the stuffing evenly over the chicken and sauce layer.
6. Add Butter and Bake:
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the stuffing. Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C) and the stuffing looks golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle dried parsley flakes on top, if desired, for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a juicy result.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as alternatives. For a homemade version, try blending cooked chicken, milk, and a little flour for a creamy sauce.
