This Savory Chicken & Herb Stuffing Bake is your weeknight hero, bringing comfort and flavor in a quick, easy dish. It's the perfect combination of succulent chicken, creamy sauce, and a crispy-cheesy topping that will win over any dinner crowd.
Chicken breasts are the heart of this dish, providing a lean source of protein. Brown them first to lock in moisture and flavor. The herb stuffing mix adds texture and aromatic herbs, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream form a creamy, savory base that coats the chicken beautifully. A touch of milk and chicken broth helps to thin the sauce, making it perfectly pourable. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme infuses the dish with depth and warmth. Finally, shredded cheddar cheese brings a melty, golden finish that ties everything together.
This bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive twist.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This sets the stage for an even bake. Heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. While it’s warming up, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once the oil is shimmering, brown the chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a nice golden color, which adds flavor and helps seal in the juices. Set the chicken aside for now.
Next, in a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, and dried thyme until smooth. This is your luscious sauce that will envelop the chicken and stuffing. Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions, and once it's ready, stir in some melted butter. This step ensures your stuffing is rich and flavorful.
Now, it’s time to assemble. Lay the browned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Spread the prepared stuffing over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden. This should take about 10 more minutes. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.