This Easy Chicken Stove Top Casserole is a cozy meal made with tender chicken, creamy soup, and tasty stuffing all baked together. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish easy and quick to cook. If you want a different flavor or texture, you can use diced thighs instead. They stay juicy and are often more flavorful!
Vegetables: Onions, celery, carrots, and mushrooms are great for adding flavor and nutrition. Feel free to swap out veggies for whatever you have on hand, like bell peppers or peas. Zucchini or spinach could also work well.
Soup: Cream of mushroom soup is a classic base. If you prefer, you can use cream of chicken or even homemade cream sauce for a fresh twist. You can also try a dairy-free option if you have dietary restrictions!
Stuffing: Stove Top stuffing is super convenient. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are several brands available. You can even use leftover homemade stuffing if you have it!
How Can I Get the Chicken to Stay Juicy While Cooking?
To keep your chicken juicy, the key is to not overcook it when you first sauté. Start by browning it lightly, allowing it to finish cooking while baking in the oven. Proper seasoning with salt and pepper at this stage also boosts flavor.
- Cook chicken for just about 5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Make sure the skillet isn’t too hot to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Combine everything and allow it to bake long enough so that the chicken absorbs the creamy goodness without overcooking.
Easy Chicken Stove Top Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 envelope (about 6 oz) Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor you prefer)
- 1/4 cup water (to prepare stuffing)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing skillet
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender.
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. This adds a lovely flavor to your casserole!
3. Add the Chicken:
Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Now, add the chicken chunks to the empty space. Season everything with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked through—it will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or chicken broth), and sour cream until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
5. Season and Prepare Stuffing:
Stir in the dried parsley and adjust the seasoning as needed. Then, prepare the Stove Top stuffing mix according to the package instructions, using the 1/4 cup of water to moisten it.
6. Add the Stuffing:
Sprinkle the prepared stuffing evenly over the top of the chicken and creamy mixture in the skillet.
7. Bake Your Casserole:
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the stuffing is golden brown and crisp on top, and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like. Dig in and enjoy your creamy, hearty, and easy chicken stove top casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cutting it into chunks.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Yes! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce. You can also find a variety of dairy-free soups if you’re looking for a lighter or vegan alternative.