Chicken and Stuffing Bake
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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can top a hearty Chicken and Stuffing Bake. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with savory stuffing and creamy sauce, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Having made this recipe countless times, I can confidently say it’s the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its uncomplicated preparation and delightful flavors, this recipe is sure to win over both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are several reasons why you should consider making this Chicken and Stuffing Bake. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly easy dish to prepare. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time in the oven, you can create a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families looking to stretch their grocery dollars without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe is ideal for a busy weeknight when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. You can even prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Plus, kids love it! It’s a perfect dish for picky eaters, thanks to its mild flavors and appealing texture.
"This is a dish that has quickly become a family favorite! It’s so easy, and I love seeing everyone clean their plates. A true comfort food!" – Sarah J., satisfied home cook.
Preparing Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Creating this dish is straightforward, so you’ll know exactly what to do from start to finish. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking trays. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks uniformly, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. The sticky and flavorful stuffing becomes a delightful topping, soaking up the delicious cream of chicken sauce, with the end result being both tender and crisp.
Here’s How It All Comes Together:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare two 8×8 foil trays. If you wish, give them a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to make for easy cleanup.
Pat the chicken dry, slice it into even pieces, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer on the trays.
Prepare the creamy sauce by whisking together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and dried thyme in a bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken in each tray.
Mix the stuffing by adding the dry stuffing mix to another bowl. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of hot broth, giving it a gentle toss until just moistened. Sprinkle this evenly over the chicken mixture.
Cover the trays with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, uncover them and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is golden and crisp. If you like it extra crispy, feel free to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Let it rest for about 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper, and serve it warm!
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious Chicken and Stuffing Bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (Stove Top Savory Herbs)
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Black pepper to taste
Note: If you’re looking for substitutes, feel free to swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile or use whole grain stuffing mix for a healthier option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down the process even further to ensure your success:
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and prep your trays.
- Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and arrange in trays.
- Whisk together the soup, broth, garlic powder, and thyme in a bowl, then pour it over the chicken.
- Combine stuffing mix with hot broth, toss until moistened, and sprinkle over the chicken.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes until done.
- Let rest, garnish, and serve!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Once your Chicken and Stuffing Bake is ready to serve, consider pairing it with a vibrant green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You might also enjoy it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or glazed carrots for a classic comfort food experience.
How to Store & Freeze
Leftovers? No problem! Store your Chicken and Stuffing Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the freezer. For reheating, simply pop it in the microwave until heated through or bake in the oven until warmed, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Tips for Success
Here are a few extra tips to elevate your Chicken and Stuffing Bake:
- Uniform Thickness: Pounding chicken breasts ensures even cooking, preventing any dry spots.
- Customize the Stuffing: Mix in some sautéed onions or celery for an added flavor boost.
- Monitor Temperature: Always check that your chicken has reached 165°F to ensure it’s safely cooked.
Creative Twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying out these variations for your Chicken and Stuffing Bake:
- Herb Additions: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage for a more complex flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or even a meatless chicken alternative.
- Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese on top of the stuffing before the final bake for a cheesy, gooey topping.
FAQ
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
The Chicken and Stuffing Bake takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, followed by about 40 minutes in the oven.
Can I use regular chicken broth instead of low sodium?
Absolutely! Just be cautious with added salt throughout the recipe, as regular broth can be quite salty.
Is it safe to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure they cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
With this Chicken and Stuffing Bake, you’ve got an easy, comforting meal that your family will love. Enjoy the delicious flavors and simple preparation that this recipe has to offer—perfect for any occasion!
Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare two 8×8 foil trays. Optionally spray them with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pat the chicken dry, slice it into even pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place in a single layer on the trays.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and thyme until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.
- In another bowl, mix the stuffing by adding the dry stuffing mix and drizzling with 1/4 cup of hot broth. Toss gently until just moistened, then sprinkle evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Cover the trays with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover the trays and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is golden.
- For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Let rest for about 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper, and serve warm.
