Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers comfort and flavor with minimal effort. Tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce are topped with a crispy, golden stuffing crust for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. For another simple casserole option, try this Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting bake delivers tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a golden, crunchy stuffing crust that provides the perfect textural contrast.

• 4 large chicken breasts (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 6 ounces Stove Top stuffing mix
• 1½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons butter, cubed

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 box stuffing mix, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

Step 2 — Mix the Creamy Chicken Base

In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth. Add cubed chicken and stir to coat thoroughly. This creamy mixture ensures moist, flavorful chicken in your Creamy Chicken Bake.

Step 3 — Layer the Chicken Mixture

Transfer the creamy chicken mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. For best results, use a glass or ceramic dish that distributes heat uniformly.

Step 4 — Create the Golden Stuffing Topping

Prepare stuffing mix according to package directions, but use slightly less liquid for a crumblier texture. Sprinkle the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken layer. The stuffing will form that signature Golden Stuffing Crunch as it bakes.

Step 5 — Preheat and Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, let the assembled dish rest so flavors begin to meld. This temperature ensures the chicken cooks through while the topping achieves perfect crispiness.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The Creamy Chicken Bake is done when the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the stuffing topping is golden brown and crisp.

Step 7 — Check for Doneness

Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest chicken piece to verify it has reached 165°F. The creamy sauce should be bubbling around the edges, and the Golden Stuffing Crunch should be visibly crisp and lightly browned.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Remove the Creamy Chicken Bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier while preserving the stuffing’s crunchy texture.

Step 9 — Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions onto plates, ensuring each serving gets both creamy chicken and the crispy stuffing topping. This comforting Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	850mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey or Tofu — Swap chicken for lean ground turkey or cubed firm tofu for a lighter protein option with similar texture.
• Cauliflower Rice Stuffing — Replace bread-based stuffing with seasoned cauliflower rice for a lower-carb, gluten-free alternative.
• Coconut Milk Sauce — Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream for a rich, dairy-free version of the creamy sauce.
• Almond Flour Topping — Mix almond flour with herbs for a gluten-free, nutty crunch instead of traditional stuffing.
• Reduced-Sodium Broth — Choose low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control saltiness without sacrificing depth of flavor.
• Greek Yogurt Base — Substitute heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, high-protein creaminess.
• Quinoa Stuffing — Use cooked quinoa mixed with vegetables as a high-fiber, protein-packed stuffing alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans almondine for a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, creamy chicken bake.
• Serve alongside a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty, savory flavors.
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings where comfort food is the star.
• For a complete meal, add garlic mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of freshness.
• Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant, portion-controlled presentation at dinner parties.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully for a quick and satisfying lunch the next day.

This Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch is a versatile dish that suits both casual weeknights and special occasions, offering a delightful combination of creamy texture and crispy topping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream of chicken soup straight from the can. Fix: Let the soup reach room temperature first so it blends smoothly with other ingredients.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish with chicken. Fix: Arrange chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking and proper sauce coverage.
• Mistake: Adding dry stuffing mix directly on top. Fix: Toss the stuffing mix with a little melted butter or broth to help it crisp up beautifully.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature. Fix: Use 375°F (190°C) to cook the chicken through without burning the topping.
• Mistake: Skipping the seasoning of the chicken. Fix: Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper before adding the creamy sauce.
• Mistake: Using thin-cut chicken breasts that dry out. Fix: Opt for uniformly thick cuts or pound them to an even thickness for consistent results.
• Mistake: Not letting the Creamy Chicken Bake rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes so the sauce thickens and sets.
• Mistake: Covering the dish with foil for the entire bake time. Fix: Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to achieve that golden stuffing crunch.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20–25 minutes, to restore the golden stuffing crunch.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch is reheated to a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch is a comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for any weeknight. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Five Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe for another cheesy favorite. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

Print

Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch

Print Recipe

A hearty, creamy chicken bake topped with a golden, crunchy stuffing layer, perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large chicken breasts (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 6 ounces Stove Top stuffing mix
• 1½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons butter, cubed

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Place chicken breasts in the baking dish.
4. Season with garlic powder, dried onions, and pepper.
5. In a medium bowl, combine dry stuffing mix with chicken broth and fluff with a fork. Set aside.
6. In a small bowl, mix cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth. Spread evenly over the chicken.
7. Spoon prepared stuffing on top of the soup layer and around the chicken. Top with cubed butter.
8. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken is 165°F.

Notes

For a crisper stuffing top, bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes. You can also add green beans or other vegetables for added flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 600
• Fat: 25
• Saturated Fat: 10
• Unsaturated Fat: 15
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 30
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 35
• Cholesterol: 80

FAQs

Can I prepare the Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving. Add the stuffing topping right before baking to keep it crunchy.

What is the best way to get the golden stuffing crunch on top?

For the perfect golden stuffing crunch, spread the stuffing mix evenly over the creamy chicken layer. Bake until the top is crisp and golden brown. This Creamy Chicken Bake with Golden Stuffing Crunch gets its signature texture from a hot, even oven.

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

You can substitute cooked turkey or even ham for the chicken in this Creamy Chicken Bake. Adjust baking time as needed if using pre-cooked meat. The creamy sauce and crunchy topping work well with various proteins.