When you’re craving a comforting dish but short on time, this chicken and stuffing casserole comes to the rescue. Combining tender chicken and melty Swiss cheese in a rich creamy sauce, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
In just 50 minutes, you’ll have a piping hot, golden-brown casserole that makes six servings, perfect for family dinners, holiday potlucks or meal planning for the week ahead. The best part? This casserole requires just six ingredients and takes just five minutes to prep. While your oven does the heavy lifting, you’re free to mingle with guests or relax on the couch.
Ingredients for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Chicken: Six boneless chicken breast halves provide a lean protein base for this chicken and stuffing bake.
- Swiss cheese:Â Swiss cheese adds a gooey, melty layer to the casserole without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Cream of chicken soup:Â A can of undiluted condensed cream of chicken soup forms the creamy base of the casserole.
- White wine: White wine lends moisture and a depth of flavor to this chicken and stuffing casserole recipe. If you’re out of white wine, you can easily substitute homemade chicken broth.
- Stuffing cubes: Three cups of stuffing cubes create a crispy and flavorful topping. As it bakes, the stuffing absorbs flavors from the sauce.
- Butter:Â Melted butter helps to bind the stuffing cubes, adds richness and ensures they achieve a golden-brown finish in the oven.
Directions
Step 1: Layer the chicken and cheese
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Top each piece with a slice of Swiss cheese.
Editor’s Tip: For even cooking of the casserole in the oven, ensure that the chicken breasts are similar in thickness. If needed, pound thicker parts of the meat to achieve a uniform thickness.
Step 2: Make the sauce
In a small bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup with the white wine, and mix to create a smooth sauce. Spoon the mixture over the cheese-topped chicken, making sure each piece is coated well.
Step 3: Create the topping
In another small bowl, mix the stuffing cubes with the melted butter. Toss until evenly coated, then sprinkle the mixture over the soup layer, covering the entire casserole dish evenly.
Step 4: Bake the casserole
Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 45 to 55 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast reads 170° and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Editor’s Tip: For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last two minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Variations
- Use a different cheese: Substitute the Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar, mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Toss in some veggies:Â Include a layer of frozen mixed vegetables, steamed broccoli florets, frozen spinach or sliced mushrooms between the chicken and cheese for added nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
- Try different stuffing: Try topping this casserole with homemade cornbread for a unique twist.
- Add some herbs:Â Sprinkle fresh or dried thyme, rosemary or sage over the chicken for additional flavor.
- Make it creamier: For extra richness in this chicken and stuffing casserole recipe, add 1/4 cup of sour cream to the sauce mixture.
How to Store Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Leftovers of this chicken and stuffing casserole recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Can you freeze chicken and stuffing casserole?
Yes, you can easily freeze this casserole. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring leftovers to single-serve freezer-safe containers. Freeze the leftovers for up to three months, then let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can you make chicken and stuffing casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this chicken and stuffing bake a day in advance. Cover it and place it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If baking straight from the refrigerator, add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the bake time.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Tips
What can you serve with chicken and stuffing casserole?
A side of steamed vegetables, fresh green salad or roasted potatoes are all you need to round out the meal when serving this easy chicken and stuffing casserole recipe.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time when making this casserole recipe. Shred the rotisserie chicken and reduce the baking time to about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this chicken and stuffing casserole, you need to use a gluten-free chicken soup and replace the stuffing cubes with gluten-free bread cubes.
How can I tell if the chicken is done without a meat thermometer?
While a meat thermometer is preferable for food safety reasons, if you follow the baking instructions and the chicken breasts aren’t pink on the inside once cut, you should be good to go. Follow our other tips on how to bake chicken.
