Cheesy Chicken Stuffing Bake

This cheesy chicken and stuffing bake combines the comforting flavors of rotisserie chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy stuffing for a meal that satisfies the whole family. I've been making variations of this casserole for years, and it remains one of my most requested dishes when friends come over for dinner.

I first created this dish during a particularly hectic week when I needed something substantial but simple. What began as a way to use leftover chicken has become a staple in my meal rotation, especially during the cooler months when we crave something warm and filling.

Ingredients

• Rotisserie chicken: Provides tender, flavorful meat without the hassle of cooking chicken from scratch. Look for one that's freshly made at your grocery store for best results.
• Cream of chicken soup: Creates the rich, creamy base that binds everything together. Choose low sodium if you're watching salt intake.
• Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, aromatic quality that elevates the simple ingredients. Fresh thyme works beautifully too if you have it.
• Milk: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency. Whole milk gives the richest result but any variety works.
• Butter: Creates that irresistible golden topping. Use unsalted to control the overall saltiness.
• Stuffing mix: Forms the crispy, savory crown of the casserole. Herb flavored varieties add extra dimension.
• Fried onions: Provide crunch and intense flavor. The contrast with the creamy filling makes each bite interesting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease your casserole dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. A light coating of cooking spray works perfectly.

Create the Creamy Base:

Combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, thyme, and milk in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy mixture. The consistency should be thick but pourable like a hearty soup.

Prepare the Stuffing Topping:

In a separate bowl, pour the melted butter over the dry stuffing mix. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece of stuffing absorbs some butter. This creates the perfect texture contrast with a crispy top and tender middle.

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the chicken mixture evenly into your prepared dish, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Cover completely with the buttered stuffing mixture, pressing down lightly to create a solid top layer.

Add the Finishing Touch:

Sprinkle the fried onions evenly across the top of the stuffing layer. These will become beautifully golden and add wonderful texture during baking.

Initial Baking:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the filling to heat through completely while preventing the top from browning too quickly.

Final Browning:

Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly. Watch carefully during this final stage to prevent burning.

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The fried onions are actually my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their magic when I ran out of breadcrumbs one evening and needed something crunchy for the top. Now my family complains if I make the casserole without them they add such incredible flavor and texture.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have available. Try adding a layer of frozen mixed vegetables between the chicken and stuffing for a complete meal in one dish. The vegetables cook perfectly in the creamy sauce and add beautiful color to each serving.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through about 20 minutes. If you microwave, the stuffing wont be as crispy, but the flavor remains delicious. Add a sprinkle of fresh fried onions before serving leftover portions to restore some of that delightful crunch.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. A side of cranberry sauce adds a wonderful sweet tart contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully. For a holiday meal, pair with roasted brussels sprouts or green beans for a complete dinner that feels special but requires minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, leftover turkey works perfectly as a substitute for chicken in this dish. It's a great option, especially after Thanksgiving.

→ What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or even cream of celery soup for a different but equally delicious flavor.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed onions, celery, or even peas and carrots make great additions to enhance flavor and texture.

→ How do I get the stuffing topping extra crispy?

Baking uncovered during the last 10 minutes ensures a perfectly golden and crispy stuffing topping.

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.