If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe is exactly what you need. This comforting casserole combines tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a luscious creamy onion sauce, all topped with a golden, savory stuffing crust that brings the perfect texture contrast. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that can easily become your next weeknight favorite or a star at any family gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the rich flavor and inviting texture of the dish. From the simple seasoning to the creamy soup base and crunchy stuffing topping, these essentials come together seamlessly.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the savory flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to a nice golden brown to lock in moisture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and a warm aromatic note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of onion soup (or cream of chicken): Provides the rich, velvety base that makes this dish creamy yet comforting.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens up the sauce just enough for perfect consistency.
- 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top): The crunchy, flavorful topping that seals in moisture and adds that beloved texture contrast.
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water: Moistens the stuffing, infusing it with rich savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Makes the stuffing beautifully golden and crispy.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional): For an extra cheesy, melty finish that’s simply irresistible.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Brings a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.
How to Make Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick. Season the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on each side for 2 to 3 minutes. This browning step is key for flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy once baked—you’re aiming for a golden color, not cooking them through yet.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of onion soup, sour cream, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat the chicken and keep it moist during baking while infusing each bite with that signature creamy onion goodness.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the creamy sauce evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Arrange the seared chicken breasts over the sauce in a single layer. Then, spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece gets coated well for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the stuffing mix with the chicken broth (or water) and melted butter until the stuffing is evenly moistened but not soggy. Spoon this mixture evenly on top of the creamy chicken layer. This stuffing topping will bake to a golden, crunchy perfection.
Step 5: Bake Your Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook gently while the stuffing absorbs flavors and softens slightly. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and, if using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and the stuffing looks golden and crisp.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let your dish rest for about 5 minutes once out of the oven—this helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of chopped chives adds freshness that contrasts beautifully with the dish’s rich texture. For a bit more zest, a light squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This creamy casserole works fabulously alongside simple roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken bake, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve this bake in individual ramekins to give each portion its own golden crust. You can also layer in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions into the stuffing for an extra flavor twist that impresses guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have time to meld and deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this bake either before or after cooking. For best results, assemble the dish and freeze it unbaked; when ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra baking time until the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, freeze individual leftovers in single-serving containers to reheat later.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, usually about 20 minutes depending on portion size. Reheating in the oven keeps the stuffing topping crispier than the microwave, but the microwave works well for a quick option.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this bake?
Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, you can use thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for the cream of onion soup?
If you can’t find cream of onion soup, cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soups are great alternatives. You can also make a quick homemade white sauce with sautéed onions for a fresher twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and verify that your soup and broth are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of these key ingredients now.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and use a dairy-free creamy soup option or make a homemade creamy sauce with coconut milk or a similar substitute. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baking covered helps cook the chicken gently and keeps it moist.
Final Thoughts
From its creamy, flavorful sauce to the irresistible crunchy stuffing topping, the Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe is a truly comforting and crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re feeding hungry family members or inviting friends over for a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction without fuss. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s treasured in so many kitchens!
Print
Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Onion Chicken Bake with Stuffing is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal perfect for an easy family dinner. Tender chicken breasts are lightly seared and baked in a creamy mixture of cream of onion soup, sour cream, and milk, then topped with savory stuffing and melted cheese for a golden finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this casserole delivers a delicious combination of creamy, savory, and crispy textures that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cream Sauce
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of onion soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Stuffing Topping
- 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until they are lightly browned but not fully cooked, giving them a flavorful crust.
- Make the cream sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of onion soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy sauce base for the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the cream sauce mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce, then spread the remaining cream sauce evenly over the chicken to coat it completely.
- Prepare the stuffing topping: In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with chicken broth (or water) and melted butter. Mix well until the stuffing is moistened but not soggy. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, covering the chicken and sauce.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Top with cheese and finish baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the stuffing topping if using. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir sautéed onions or mushrooms into the stuffing before baking.
- You can substitute cream of onion soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup based on your preference.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
