This creamy chicken casserole with stuffing recipe isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This dish elevates the classic chicken and stuffing combination with a rich, creamy sauce that takes it to the next level. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this elevated take on a beloved comfort food.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken Casserole Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself from other chicken and stuffing casseroles through several key elements:
- Creamy Sauce: The heart of this recipe lies in its luscious, creamy sauce, which adds incredible depth and richness to the dish. We're not talking about a simple gravy; this is a decadent blend of cream, cheese, and flavorful seasonings.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: We'll ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, not dry and stringy.
- Flavorful Stuffing: The stuffing isn't an afterthought; it’s a key component, infused with herbs and seasonings to complement the creamy chicken perfectly. We’ll discuss options for customizing the stuffing to your preferences.
- Easy to Make: Despite the gourmet flavors, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward and requires minimal prep time. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Stuffing:
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old is best)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Stir in thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine cubed bread, celery, onion, butter, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the stuffing, then the cooked chicken, and top with the remaining stuffing. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of your favorites would all work well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What kind of bread is best for the stuffing?
Day-old bread is ideal, as it will absorb the liquid better and prevent the stuffing from becoming soggy. Cubed sourdough, white bread, or even cornbread would work well.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using leftover cooked chicken. Just skip the step of cooking the chicken in the skillet.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, you can use reduced-fat cheese, milk instead of heavy cream, and whole-wheat bread for the stuffing. You can also reduce the amount of butter used.
This creamy chicken casserole with stuffing is a delicious and comforting meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
