Comfort Food Classic: Chicken Casserole with Stuffing
Welcome to a culinary journey filled with warmth and nostalgia as we explore the beloved Chicken Casserole with Stuffing recipe. This hearty and comforting dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and savory stuffing, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings alike. Join us as we delve into the layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole a timeless favorite, guaranteed to evoke memories of home-cooked meals and cherished moments around the table.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chicken, cooked, shredded
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground sage
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 8.75 oz canned corn, drained
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 12 oz Chicken Stove Top Stuffing (2 boxes)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with condensed cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, onion powder, and ground sage. Mix until well combined.
- Add Cranberry Sauce and Corn: Fold in the whole berry cranberry sauce and drained canned corn into the chicken mixture.
- Spread Mixture: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the contents of the Chicken Stove Top Stuffing mix until well combined.
- Layer Stuffing: Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables such as peas, carrots, or green beans for added color and nutrition.
- Cheese Addition: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to elevate the flavors of the casserole.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the condensed cream of chicken soup with a homemade keto-friendly version using almond milk, chicken broth, and xanthan gum as a thickening agent. Substitute the cranberry sauce with a sugar-free cranberry relish or omit it altogether to reduce carb content.
- Low-Carb Option: Similarly, opt for low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli instead of corn. Use a low-carb stuffing mix made with almond flour or coconut flour, and sweetened with erythritol or stevia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken? Yes, leftover turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this casserole, adding a delicious twist to your post-holiday meals.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover tightly with aluminum foil and store in the fridge until needed.
- Can I freeze Chicken Casserole with Stuffing? Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
- What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a complete meal. Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
In conclusion, Chicken Casserole with Stuffing is a timeless classic that brings together the comforting flavors of a holiday feast in a single dish. With its layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, sweet cranberry, and savory stuffing, this casserole offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or served at special gatherings, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite for years to come. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the heartwarming goodness of Chicken Casserole with Stuffing today!
