Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and is ready to enjoy in about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions. Usually, this involves combining the stuffing mix with hot chicken broth and letting it sit for a few minutes until it’s absorbed. For added flavor, you can also stir in garlic powder and onion powder.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are smooth and well incorporated. This creamy sauce will add richness to the casserole and keep everything moist during baking.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Stuffing

Take your shredded rotisserie chicken and spread it evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This will be the base of your casserole, giving it plenty of protein and flavor.

Once the stuffing is ready, layer it over the chicken in the baking dish. Be sure to spread it out evenly, so every bite has a perfect ratio of stuffing to chicken.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Sauce

Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and stuffing layers. Use a spoon to gently spread it out so that it covers everything. This will ensure that each bite of casserole is creamy and flavorful.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Top the casserole with shredded cheese of your choice. Cheddar is a classic option, but mozzarella or even a blend of cheeses can add a nice touch. The cheese will melt as the casserole bakes, creating a golden, gooey topping that adds to the deliciousness of the dish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you’d like a crispier top, you can turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.

Why You’ll Love Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

• Quick and Easy: The use of a rotisserie chicken saves you so much time in the kitchen. You don’t have to cook the chicken from scratch, which means this casserole can come together in less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting: The combination of chicken, stuffing, and a creamy sauce gives you that homey, comforting feeling that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy meals at home.
• Versatile: This recipe is highly customizable. You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra nutrition and color. You can also swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor profile.
• Budget-Friendly: Rotisserie chicken is a great way to make a meal go further, and the ingredients for this casserole are affordable and easy to find at the grocery store.
• Great for Leftovers: If you have extra casserole, it keeps well in the fridge for a few days. It also freezes wonderfully, so you can make a double batch and save one for later. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Tips for the Best Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

• Use the chicken skin: If you’re not opposed to it, try using some of the crispy skin from the rotisserie chicken. It adds even more flavor and texture to the casserole.
• Make it healthier: To lighten things up, you can use low-fat or fat-free versions of the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. You can also swap out half of the butter for olive oil to reduce the fat content.
• Add vegetables: For a more balanced meal, stir in some frozen peas, chopped carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to the chicken layer before adding the stuffing. These vegetables will complement the flavors of the casserole and make it more filling.
• Add herbs for extra flavor: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, try adding some chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage to the stuffing or creamy sauce for a pop of flavor. These herbs pair beautifully with both the chicken and the stuffing.

Final Thoughts

Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect solution for when you want a delicious, comforting meal that comes together in a snap. The smoky, savory rotisserie chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy stuffing and cheesy topping, making it a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

Not only is it a great way to use up leftover chicken, but it’s also a meal that everyone will love, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for the family. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole is a time-saver without compromising on flavor.

So the next time you’re looking for a quick, filling, and tasty dinner, give this Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole a try. It’s sure to become your go-to recipe for those busy nights when you need a comforting meal without the fuss. Enjoy!