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This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole has been a comfort food staple in our home for over two decades. It is rich creamy and packed with familiar flavors that make everyone at the table feel satisfied. I especially love that it comes together quickly and uses ingredients I almost always have on hand.
I first made this for a neighborhood potluck and it was gone within minutes. Now it is a regular part of our dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenderloins: offer tender bites and cook evenly throughout the dish
- Kosher salt and black pepper: provide a basic seasoning foundation and can be adjusted to taste
- Cream of celery and cream of chicken soups: add a creamy base with savory flavor
- Whole milk: contributes to the sauce texture making it rich and smooth
- Stove Top chicken stuffing mix: gives the casserole its signature comfort crunch and absorbs flavor beautifully
- Chicken broth: moistens the stuffing layer and enhances overall depth
- Chopped parsley: brings freshness and color to the finished casserole
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep the Dish:
- Set oven to 375°F and spray an 11x7 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken tenderloins into bite sized chunks and spread them evenly in the baking dish then season with salt and pepper
- Mix the Cream Sauce:
- In a bowl whisk together cream of celery soup cream of chicken soup and milk until fully blended and smooth
- Layer the Sauce:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the seasoned chicken making sure all pieces are fully covered and coated
- Add Stuffing and Broth:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry stuffing mix over the sauce then pour chicken broth over the top to moisten all the stuffing evenly
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes then uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes to brown the top
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with gravy spooned over each portion
Storage Tips
Once cooled transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage freeze the casserole before baking and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as usual.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using cream of mushroom soup for a deeper earthy flavor. Boneless chicken thighs can replace tenderloins if you prefer a juicier texture. You can also swap milk with half and half for a richer finish.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with a light green salad to balance the richness or add a side of roasted carrots for extra color and nutrition. A dollop of cranberry sauce brings a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory base.
Cultural Context
Stuffing casseroles like this one reflect a blending of Southern and Midwestern traditions where convenience meets comforting flavors. It feels like Thanksgiving dinner without all the work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use raw chicken in this casserole?
Yes, raw chicken is safe to use. As long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F during baking, it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- → Can I substitute chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work just as well. Just cut them into even chunks for even cooking.
- → What stuffing mix works best?
Stove Top chicken stuffing is a great option, but you can use other brands or homemade stuffing based on your preference.
- → How can I make the stuffing fluffier?
Prepare the stuffing separately according to package instructions, then dollop it on top of the casserole instead of adding broth directly.
- → Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, vegetables like mixed frozen vegetables or peas and carrots can be stirred into the casserole for added nutrition and texture.
- → Can I use different soups?
Cream of mushroom or a mix of your favorite cream soups can be used instead of celery or chicken soup for a different flavor.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.