Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dive into a comforting and flavorful world with our Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole! This dish is the epitome of cozy comfort food, perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or a special occasion. Imagine tender, juicy chicken nestled in a creamy mushroom soup base, enveloped by fluffy, herb-infused stuffing. Every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, a true delight for your senses. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to your preferences, using leftover roasted chicken or even substituting ingredients to cater to dietary needs. It’s a simple recipe that delivers impressive results, leaving your guests wanting more. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times; this casserole is surprisingly easy to make, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. There are so many reasons why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unmatched Flavor Combination: The creamy mushroom soup base perfectly complements the savory chicken and herby stuffing, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, celery and onion provides a rich depth of flavor.
• Effortless Preparation: This recipe is surprisingly easy to assemble. With minimal prep time and simple steps, even novice cooks can master this dish. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in one baking dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your time. Less dishes mean more time for enjoying your delicious casserole!
• Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy schedules. Pack it for lunch or enjoy it for a quick and satisfying dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. It’s a versatile dish that appeals to a wide range of palates, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable to Your Preferences: Feel free to experiment with different types of stuffing, cheeses, or add-ins to personalize this recipe and make it your own. Add some cooked vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Why You Should Try This Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Beyond the deliciousness, this Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole offers several compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Comfort Food Perfection: On a chilly evening, nothing beats the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty casserole. This recipe delivers that comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for soothing your soul.
• Versatile Meal Solution: This casserole works wonderfully for any occasion – a casual weeknight dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or a potluck contribution. It’s adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it perfect for busy individuals or those who love to entertain without the last-minute stress.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it an economical choice without sacrificing quality or flavor.
• Improves with Leftovers: Many casseroles taste better the next day, and this one is no exception. The flavors deepen and meld together, creating an even richer and more satisfying culinary experience.
• A Great Way to Use Leftover Chicken: Got leftover roasted chicken? This is the perfect recipe to transform those leftovers into a delicious and satisfying meal. Don’t let that precious chicken go to waste!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients and tools ensures a smooth and successful cooking experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Ingredients: A Detailed List

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the vegetables. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Contributes a subtle celery flavor and adds a nice texture to the casserole. Use fresh celery for the best results.
• Cremini Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Earthy and savory, cremini mushrooms enhance the overall flavor profile. Button mushrooms can be substituted if preferred.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound, cooked and cubed): The star of the show! Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Cubing the chicken ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.75 ounce can): The creamy base of the casserole. This adds richness and a delightful mushroom flavor. You can use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup to control the salt content.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and helps to balance the richness of the soup and chicken.
• Chicken Broth (1/4 cup + 2 cups): Used to create a flavorful base for the chicken mixture and to prepare the stuffing. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control salt levels.
• Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy herbaceous note. Fresh thyme can also be used. If using fresh thyme, use about 2 teaspoons.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to taste, keeping in mind the salt content of the soup and broth.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferable.
• Stuffing Mix (6 cups): The classic complement to chicken. Use your favorite brand of herb or classic stuffing mix. Be sure to check the package instructions for preparation details.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, optional): Adds a sharp, savory flavor and a nice melted texture on top. Other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere can be used as substitutes.

Utensils: Essential Tools for Success

• Large Skillet: For sautéing the onions, celery, and mushrooms.
• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: To bake the casserole. A glass or ceramic baking dish is recommended for even baking.
• Large Bowl: For preparing the stuffing.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the vegetables and chicken.
• Can Opener: To open the cream of mushroom soup can.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly creamy and delicious casserole:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. **Don’t rush this step; properly sautéed vegetables will add depth of flavor to the casserole.**
3. Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 more minutes. **Make sure the mushrooms are cooked through to prevent a watery casserole.**
4. Combine Chicken and Creamy Base: Stir in the cooked and cubed chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1/4 cup chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. **This step ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.**
5. Prepare Stuffing: In a large bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions, using 2 cups of chicken broth. **Ensure the stuffing is moist but not soggy.** Too much broth can result in a mushy casserole.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour half of the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish. **Spread it evenly to create a solid base.** Top with the chicken mixture, spreading it evenly as well. Top with the remaining stuffing mixture.
7. Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the top of the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese. **This adds a nice cheesy crust and extra flavor.**
8. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). **Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.**
9. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the stuffing to set and the flavors to meld even further. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations for Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Here are some helpful tips and variations to make this casserole even more delicious and adaptable:

• Use different types of stuffing: Experiment with cornbread stuffing, wild rice stuffing, or even a homemade stuffing recipe for a unique twist. Check out our other recipes on cocinafacilita.com for inspiration!
• Add more vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor. Saute them with the onions, celery and mushrooms.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
• Use different cheese: Try different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Try pairing it with our delicious Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad.
• Avoid over-baking: Over-baking can result in dry stuffing and a less appealing texture. Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark.
• Don’t over-stuff: If the stuffing is too moist, reduce the amount of broth and let it sit a few minutes before assembling the casserole.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or mushrooms. Use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and vegetable broth.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

While this Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is undeniably delicious, it’s important to be aware of its nutritional profile. A serving size will vary depending on how many servings you divide the casserole into. Approximate values per serving (based on a 12-serving casserole) might include:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving (from chicken)
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving (from olive oil, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving (from stuffing and soup)

Nutritional Benefits:

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. It also provides various vitamins and minerals, including niacin and selenium.
• Mushrooms: Excellent source of various antioxidants and vitamins like B vitamins and selenium. They have anti-inflammatory properties and may support immune health.
• Celery: Low in calories and rich in fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. It also contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and potassium.
• Onion: Contains antioxidants and compounds that may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. They also provide vitamin C and fiber.
• Thyme: Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It has been associated with various health benefits.

Note: These are approximate values and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities used in your recipe.

FAQs

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

This Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting experience, a flavor adventure, and a testament to the simplicity of truly delicious food. From its easy preparation to its incredible versatility, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal. We’ve walked you through every step, providing tips, variations, and even nutritional information to help you confidently craft this culinary masterpiece. Now it’s your turn! Make this Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, and let us know in the comments below how it turned out. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations on social media using #CreamyChickenStuffingCasserole and tag us! Share your thoughts and experience, and check out our other creamy recipes, like our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for even more delicious inspiration. Happy cooking!

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