Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple, comforting dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and flavorful stuffing all baked into one warm, satisfying meal. The crunchy topping and tender chicken make each bite deliciously cozy without a lot of fuss in the kitchen.
I love making this recipe when I want something hearty but don’t feel like juggling too many pots and pans. It’s one of those go-to dinners that comes together quickly and tastes even better the next day. Plus, the familiar flavors make it a hit with the whole family, which always makes me happy.
My favorite way to enjoy this bake is with a side of green beans or a fresh salad to balance things out. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a comforting, no-stress meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and stay tender. You can swap chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat if you prefer.
Seasoned Stuffing Cubes: Store-bought stuffing mix saves time here. If you want, homemade stuffing or gluten-free versions work great too.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt or vegetable broth for a milder taste.
Vegetables (celery, bell pepper, onion, garlic): These bring freshness and flavor. Feel free to add mushrooms or carrots to personalize the mix.
Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and texture, but it’s optional. For a vegetarian option, leave it out or use smoked paprika instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely with mild flavor. Cheddar gives a sharper taste. You can skip cheese or try a dairy-free alternative if needed.
How Do I Get the Stuffing Moist but Not Soggy?
Moist stuffing means it’s tasty and soft but not mushy. Here’s how I do it:
- Pour the chicken broth gradually over the stuffing mixture, stirring gently.
- Stop adding broth once the stuffing feels damp but still holds its shape.
- The baking dish foil cover helps trap moisture so the mixture steams perfectly.
- After baking covered, remove the foil to let the top crisp up nicely without drying out.
This balance is key so every bite is flavorful and has a nice texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to fit all the chicken and stuffing for even cooking.
- Large skillet – I use this to sauté veggies and brown chicken easily before baking.
- Mixing bowl – great for tossing the stuffing with chicken and broth without making a mess.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep moisture in while baking for tender results.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – essential for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey breast for a holiday-style twist that pairs well with stuffing flavors.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced apples to the stuffing for extra earthiness or a touch of sweetness.
- Mix in shredded cheese like gouda or fontina for a creamier, richer topping.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the veggie mix.
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups seasoned stuffing cubes (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus fresh thyme sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this easy bake takes about 15 minutes for chopping and sautéing, then about 40 minutes to bake in the oven. So you’ll need roughly 55 minutes from start to finish to get a tasty, hearty dinner ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your food doesn’t stick. Next, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and yellow bell pepper. Cook these veggies until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook one more minute to bring out its flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. Add them to your skillet with the veggies and cook until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside but not fully cooked—about 4 to 5 minutes. Season everything with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and sage.
3. Mix Stuffing with Chicken and Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing cubes with your chicken and sautéed vegetables. Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon if you’re using it.
4. Add Broth and Prepare for Baking:
Pour the chicken broth over the stuffing and chicken mixture. Stir gently to moisten the stuffing well but avoid making it soggy. Transfer the whole mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top gets a little golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by adding fresh thyme sprigs on top for a pretty, fresh touch. Serve your warm chicken and stuffing bake with steamed green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. This helps ensure even cooking and safety.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken and stuffing.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you want to avoid dairy, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. For different flavors, try shredded gouda, fontina, or a sharper cheddar to change up the taste and texture.
