Today’s chicken stuffing casserole with creamy sauce brings together all the familiar comforts of a holiday meal in one easy dish. Tender cooked chicken or leftover turkey, seasoned stuffing mix, rice, and a rich cream sauce combine to create a warming, family-friendly casserole that’s perfect for cool fall and winter evenings.
How to Make Easy Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Chicken casserole ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup chopped red sweet pepper
- ½ cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
- 1 (8 ounce) package herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 2 cups water
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups chopped cooked turkey or chicken
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Casserole
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Set it aside.
Step 2. In a medium saucepan bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the chopped red pepper, rice, and chopped onion. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer 10–15 minutes, or until the rice and vegetables are tender. Because stove temperatures vary, check before 10 minutes to make sure the rice doesn’t cook dry; add a splash of water if needed.
Step 3. While the rice cooks, place the stuffing mix in a large bowl and pour in 2 cups of water. Stir and let it soften briefly. Add the beaten eggs, chopped cooked chicken or turkey, and half of the cream of chicken soup, mixing until combined. Fold the turkey mixture into the cooked rice and vegetable mixture until evenly combined.
Step 4. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until heated through and the top is set.
Creamy Sauce Topping for the Chicken Stuffing Casserole
While the casserole finishes baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan combine the remaining cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and chicken broth. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through (do not boil). Remove from heat.
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Spoon the warm creamy sauce over each portion when serving.
What to Serve with Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole is a satisfying one-dish meal, so simple sides work best. A crisp tossed green salad with a bright vinaigrette or steamed green vegetables balance the richness of the casserole. Soft dinner rolls or crusty bread are ideal for mopping up the creamy sauce. Keep sides light to contrast the hearty stuffing and sauce.
Tips, Variations and Substitutions
- If you prefer, substitute brown rice for white rice; adjust cooking time and extra liquid as needed so the rice becomes tender.
- Use low-sodium cream soup and chicken broth if you are watching salt. Taste the sauce as you warm it and adjust seasoning with black pepper or a pinch of dried herbs.
- Add extra vegetables—frozen peas, diced carrots, or sliced mushrooms—to increase fiber and color. If adding frozen vegetables, stir them into the hot rice so they thaw before baking.
- For a richer topping, stir in a little shredded cheese to the warm cream sauce before serving.
- This recipe works beautifully with leftover roasted turkey or rotisserie chicken—shredded or chopped.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, for about 20–30 minutes until hot. If the casserole seems dry when reheating, stir in a splash of milk or warm sauce to restore creaminess.
More Comforting Casserole Ideas
If you enjoy casseroles, try variations that use different proteins or toppings: a vegetable-forward casserole with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, a creamy chicken and noodle bake, or a family-style tater tot casserole. Casseroles are adaptable—swap in what you have on hand to create new, comforting meals.
Chicken Stuffing Casserole with Creamy Sauce
A warm, comforting casserole that makes great use of leftover chicken or turkey. Easy to assemble and ideal for family dinners.
- Yield: 8 servings
- Prep time: about 5 minutes active (plus rice cooking)
- Cook time: 1 hour (including bake time)
- Total time: about 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition note
Nutrition will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use low-sodium soup and broth to reduce sodium, and add vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.