There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty chicken stuffing casserole to bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This dish combines tender chunks of cooked chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, all topped with golden, fluffy stuffing. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, this recipe delivers a balanced blend of savory goodness and rich textures.
Ingredients and Their Roles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a base for sautéing vegetables, enhancing their flavor while preventing sticking.
- 1 sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the casserole’s flavor.
- 1 rib celery, chopped: Contributes a subtle crunch and savory undertones.
- 1 carrot, chopped: Offers a slight sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced: Brings heartiness and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates the roux for a luscious, velvety sauce.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce, ensuring it coats the ingredients evenly.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Adds rich, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup half and half: Provides creaminess for a luxurious texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Introduces a hint of warmth and complexity.
- 1 6-ounce box stuffing mix (prepared as directed): The crowning glory, delivering buttery, seasoned comfort in every bite.
- 2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced: The star protein, tender and flavorful.
- ⅔ cup frozen peas: Add a pop of sweetness and color.
- Chopped fresh parsley or rosemary (optional): A fragrant finishing touch for added freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat and Prepare the Casserole Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9x11-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. -
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the onions and celery soften and the carrots and potatoes begin to tenderize. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside. -
Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add the chicken broth and half and half, alternating between the two, while whisking to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. -
Combine the Vegetables and Sauce
Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and simmer until all the vegetables are tender. -
Prepare the Stuffing
While the sauce simmers, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Cover to keep warm. -
Assemble the Casserole
Add the diced chicken and peas to the skillet, cooking for 2 minutes to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cooked stuffing over the top, spreading it evenly. -
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the stuffing is golden brown. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or rosemary over the top before serving.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
- Versatile: Swap in your favorite vegetables or use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this casserole appeals to all ages.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in advance and bake when needed for effortless hosting.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Dice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Customize your stuffing: Add dried cranberries or chopped nuts for extra flair.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a few tablespoons of chicken broth or half and half to reach your desired consistency.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to minimize cleanup by skipping the casserole dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this chicken stuffing casserole with a crisp side salad or roasted green beans for a complete meal. A warm loaf of crusty bread makes an excellent accompaniment to mop up every drop of the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
This Chicken Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a medley of flavors and textures that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can whip up a family favorite in no time. Its versatility and irresistible taste will make it a staple in your recipe collection. Try it tonight and experience the magic of a classic casserole done right!