This cozy and satisfying casserole combines juicy seared chicken breasts with savory stuffing, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect all-in-one comfort meal, ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Simple to prep, hearty to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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High-Protein & Filling: Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples with high value.
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Family Favorite: A comforting classic everyone loves.
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Great for Meal Prep: Easy to reheat and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients Breakdown
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The hearty protein base of the dish.
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1 tbsp olive oil – For searing and locking in flavor.
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Salt, pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
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1 (12 oz) box stuffing mix – Adds a savory, herbed bread layer.
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½ cup chicken broth – Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Forms a rich, creamy sauce.
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½ cup sour cream (optional) – Adds extra creaminess and tang.
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts over the top for a comforting finish.
Tips and Tricks:f
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Thin Chicken Breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally for quicker, even cooking.
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: Short on time? Swap in pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken and bake for 20–25 minutes instead.
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Extra Creamy: Add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or more sour cream for added richness.
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Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Variations and Customizations:
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Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or cooked broccoli for extra nutrition.
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Spicy Twist: Mix a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños into the creamy mixture.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and soup alternatives.
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Low-Carb Version: Swap stuffing for sautéed riced cauliflower.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Side Dishes:
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Steamed green beans
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Simple garden salad with vinaigrette
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Drinks:
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Iced tea
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Chardonnay
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Sparkling water with lemon
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Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheat: Warm in the microwave or covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Popular Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and offer more flavor.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can skip it or substitute with plain Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream.