Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

Stuffing and Chicken Bake: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It

By:

Christina R. Jones

stuffing and chicken bake

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

There’s something truly magical about a home-cooked meal, don’t you think? It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. One of my all-time favorite comfort dishes is my stuffing and chicken bake. It’s a delightful blend of juicy chicken and savory stuffing that fills my home with cozy aromas. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the smiles on their faces as they took that first bite were priceless! It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, once you try this stuffing and chicken bake, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

stuffing and chicken bake - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your delicious stuffing and chicken bake:

  • 4 chicken fillets: Boneless and skinless, trimmed of any excess fat for a clean, tender bite.
  • 2 cups stuffing mix: Choose your favorite flavor – a herb blend works wonders here!
  • 1 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium for a healthier option, ensuring the stuffing stays moist and flavorful.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey, melty goodness on top.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: This will help you get that perfect sear on the chicken, adding rich flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for adding depth to your chicken – it’s like a flavor hug!
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: This enhances the savory notes, making everything taste just right.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key to bringing all these flavors together.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a heartwarming dish that everyone will love!

How to Prepare Stuffing and Chicken Bake

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your chicken bake cooks evenly and thoroughly. I always set a timer for this because it’s so easy to forget while you’re prepping the other ingredients. Plus, the anticipation of that warm oven just adds to the excitement of creating this meal!

Prepare the Stuffing

Now, let’s get to the stuffing! In a medium bowl, combine your stuffing mix with the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is nicely moistened. Then, let it sit for about 5 minutes. This little resting period allows the stuffing to soak up the broth, making it flavorful and tender. You want that perfect texture that hugs the chicken when it bakes. It’s such a simple step, but it really makes all the difference!

Sear the Chicken

While the stuffing is soaking, it’s time to sear the chicken fillets. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season your chicken fillets generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait for that lovely crust!

Assemble the Dish

Now, let’s bring everything together! In a baking dish, lay down the seared chicken fillets in a single layer. Spoon the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken, making sure to cover it well. Finally, sprinkle that glorious shredded cheese on top – I can already smell it melting in my mind! It’s like the cherry on top of this comforting dish. Now you’re ready to bake!

Bake the Stuffing and Chicken

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through, and the cheese is bubbly and golden. A quick tip: if you have a meat thermometer, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This little pause helps the juices settle – and trust me, you want every juicy bite of this amazing stuffing and chicken bake!

Tips for Success

To ensure your stuffing and chicken bake turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips to share! First, don’t hesitate to customize the stuffing mix; adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and add some extra nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist!

When seasoning the chicken, feel free to get creative with herbs! A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish even more. And if you love a bit of crunch, consider topping your cheese with a handful of breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish.

Lastly, if you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step by using pre-cooked chicken fillets. Just layer them in the baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this delightful stuffing and chicken bake. Each serving contains approximately:

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 30g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most accurate nutritional information!

FAQ Section

I’ve gathered some common questions about my stuffing and chicken bake to help you on your cooking journey. Let’s dive in!

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken fillets completely before cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, you might want to extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure it’s cooked through. A meat thermometer can help here – aim for 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.

Q2: What if I don’t have stuffing mix on hand?
No worries! You can make your own stuffing using stale bread, herbs, and some broth. Just tear the bread into pieces, mix in sautéed onions, celery, and your favorite seasonings. Add enough broth to moisten everything, and you’ll have a delicious homemade stuffing ready for your chicken bake!

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
Definitely! Adding veggies like diced carrots, peas, or even spinach can elevate the flavors and add some healthy nutrients. Just sauté them a bit before mixing them in with the stuffing for the best results.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffing and chicken bake a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as it will be colder when you put it in the oven. Enjoy your easy dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
  • Easy Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients on hand, making it a hassle-free choice!
  • Comfort Food Appeal: The cozy combination of chicken and stuffing is like a warm hug on a plate.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
  • Versatile: Customize the stuffing with your favorite add-ins for a personal touch every time!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare feat with this delicious stuffing and chicken bake!), storing them properly is key to keeping them tasty. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. Enjoy every last bite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
stuffing and chicken bake

Stuffing and Chicken Bake: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It


  • Author: Christina R. Jones
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A comforting chicken bake filled with savory stuffing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken fillets
  • 2 cups stuffing mix
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix stuffing mix with chicken broth and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  4. Season chicken fillets with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Sear chicken fillets in the pan for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  6. Place the chicken in a baking dish and top with stuffing mix.
  7. Add shredded cheese on top of the stuffing.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option.
  • Add vegetables to the stuffing for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken fillet with stuffing
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: stuffing, chicken bake, easy dinner, comfort food

Hi I’m Christina

I’m a creator of delicious air fryer recipes. Air fryer cooking, recipe development, and kitchen consulting are my passion. I love sharing quick, healthy, and crispy dishes—and connecting with people through the food I create.

Latest Recipes

Recommended

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating