The Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Follow this detailed guide to create a mouthwatering casserole that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
What is Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole?
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole combines cooked chicken with a flavorful stuffing mix and a creamy sauce. It’s a hearty and filling dish that’s easy to make and ideal for using up leftover chicken or turkey.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this casserole a quick and convenient meal.
- Versatile: Perfect for using leftover chicken or turkey.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
- Comforting: A warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cooler weather.
- Great for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks or family dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This can be made ahead and reheated.
Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions: How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, mayonnaise, and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Spread the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture in an even layer.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- Green Beans: A simple side of steamed or roasted green beans complements the casserole well.
- Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: Extra comfort on the plate.
- Garden Salad: Lightens up the meal with fresh greens.
- Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
- Roasted Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey works great for this recipe.
- Prepare Stuffing First: Make the stuffing ahead to save time.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake just until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden to avoid dryness.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
- Customize Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set.
- Cheese Variation: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for a twist.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- Vegetarian Version: Use a vegetable-based stuffing and replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables.
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Different Meat: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham for a change.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Italian Style: Add some marinara sauce and Italian seasoning for an Italian twist.
Storing Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole: Best Practices
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the casserole in portions.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole: Best Practices
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Moisture: Cover with foil and add a splash of broth if it looks dry.
- Avoid Overheating: Reheat just until warmed through to avoid drying it out.
How can I make Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole healthier?
To make Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Whole Grain Stuffing: Use a whole grain stuffing mix to increase fiber content.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream, cheese, and mayonnaise to reduce fat and calorie intake.
- More Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added vitamins and minerals.
- Lean Chicken: Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
- Homemade Soup Substitute: Make a homemade version of the cream of chicken soup with reduced sodium and fewer preservatives.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and a lower fat content.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
- Cowboy Caviar Recipe Pioneer Woman
FAQs
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, ensure the stuffing is well-moistened, and don’t overbake the casserole. Adding a bit more chicken broth or using a creamier soup base can also help maintain moisture. Covering the dish with foil while baking and removing it during the last few minutes can help achieve the perfect balance of creamy and golden-brown textures.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen vegetables in a casserole?
Both fresh and frozen vegetables can be used in a casserole, but fresh vegetables often provide a better texture. Fresh vegetables retain a slight crunch after baking, while frozen vegetables can become softer and more watery. If using frozen vegetables, thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, use whole grain stuffing instead of regular stuffing, and opt for low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream, cheese, and mayonnaise. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers and using lean chicken breasts can also enhance the nutritional value. Substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream to increase protein and reduce fat content.
Final Words
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of chicken, stuffing, and creamy sauce in one satisfying meal. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. Whether you follow the classic version or make it healthier with a few simple tweaks, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delightful taste of this timeless dish, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request at your dinner table!
Print
Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
Description
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole combines cooked chicken with a flavorful stuffing mix and a creamy sauce. It’s a hearty and filling dish that’s easy to make and ideal for using up leftover chicken or turkey.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, mayonnaise, and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Spread the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture in an even layer.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Leftover Turkey: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey from holiday meals.
- Stuffing Mix Variations: Feel free to use any stuffing mix flavor you prefer, such as cornbread or herb-seasoned.
- Broth Amount: If you find the casserole too dry, you can add an extra 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the mixture before baking.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese types like mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar for varied flavors.
- Vegetable Variations: Add any of your favorite vegetables, such as green beans, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled and frozen before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the casserole mixture.
- Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle the top with crushed crackers or fried onions before baking.
- Non-Dairy Options: For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy alternatives for sour cream and mayonnaise, and choose a vegan cream of chicken soup.
