Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Chicken Stuffing Casserole is the epitome of homey comfort food – a hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This delicious casserole combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and wholesome vegetables in a creamy sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. In this blog post, we’ll take you through how to make this comforting Chicken Stuffing Casserole step by step, along with tips, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions for those watching their carb intake.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 1 rib celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 6-ounce box stuffing mix, prepared as directed on the box (you will need butter and water)
• 2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• ⅔ cup frozen peas
• Chopped fresh parsley or rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, chopped carrot, and diced potato. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Prepare the Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves combining the stuffing mix with butter and water. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the prepared stuffing mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Top with the cooked chicken breast and frozen peas. Pour the creamy vegetable sauce over the chicken and peas, spreading it out evenly.
6. Layer with Remaining Stuffing: Spoon the remaining half of the stuffing mixture over the top of the casserole, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or rosemary, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious Chicken Stuffing Casserole!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast from scratch.
• Add Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole before baking.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:

• Cauliflower Substitute: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option.
• Almond Flour Thickener: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce for a keto-friendly version.
• Creamy Sauce: Use heavy cream instead of half and half to reduce the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use pre-made stuffing instead of stuffing mix? Yes, you can use pre-made stuffing if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as pre-made stuffing may require less time in the oven.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Stuffing Casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a timeless classic that’s sure to please the whole family. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory stuffing, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this hearty casserole is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of this Chicken Stuffing Casserole – it’s a true crowd-pleaser!