Introduction
There’s something about a Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that just feels like home. This dish, with its rich flavors and comforting warmth, is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday gathering. It combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the savory goodness of stuffing, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 ½ cups water
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 (6 ounce) package quick-cooking stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can low-sodium cream of chicken soup
- ½ (10.5 ounce) can low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
- 1 whole cooked rotisserie chicken – skinned, boned, and meat shredded
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Prepare Stuffing: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the water and ¼ cup butter to a boil. Stir in the stuffing mix, then remove from the heat. Cover and let it sit until the water is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to ensure it’s light and airy.
3️⃣ Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 to 10 minutes. This step adds a layer of flavor that’s key to the casserole’s depth.
4️⃣ Mix Soups and Sour Cream: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream until smooth. This creamy mixture is the secret to the casserole’s rich and comforting taste.
5️⃣ Layer Chicken: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the sautéed onion and celery, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
6️⃣ Add Soup Mixture and Stuffing: Pour the soup and sour cream mixture over the chicken layer. Then, gently spread the prepared stuffing on top, creating a deliciously crispy topping when baked.
7️⃣ Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the filling is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown, about 1 hour. The transformation into a golden, bubbling masterpiece is a sight to behold.
Notes and Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or sage into the stuffing.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition Details
- Serving: 1 portion
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: Significant
- Calcium: Moderate
- Iron: Moderate
This casserole is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also packed with protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The creamy sauce and stuffing add a comforting carbohydrate component that’s sure to satisfy.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
Q: Can I use homemade stuffing? A: Yes, homemade stuffing can be used and might even add a personal touch to the dish. Just ensure it’s not too moist before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sour cream? A: For a dairy-free version, you can use a plant-based sour cream or a thick coconut cream as a substitute.
The Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of a dish. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites, making it a cherished recipe in your cooking repertoire.