Herbed Chicken and Golden Stuffing Bake: A Comforting Family Favorite
Experience the warmth of home cooking with this Herbed Chicken and Golden Stuffing Bake. Tender, herb-seasoned chicken breasts or thighs are nestled atop a savory bed of buttery stuffing studded with onions, carrots, and celery. Everything roasts together until the chicken is juicy and the stuffing edges turn crisp and golden. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, this one-dish meal combines minimal prep with maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (6-ounce) box seasoned bread stuffing mix
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced carrot
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the OvenPreheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, stir together thyme, rosemary, sage, a generous pinch of salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Rub this herb blend over both sides of each chicken piece.Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.Prepare the Stuffing
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the diced onion, celery, and carrot. In a small saucepan, bring the chicken broth and butter to a gentle boil. Pour this hot mixture over the stuffing and stir until the bread cubes absorb the liquid evenly.Assemble the Bake
Spread the prepared stuffing in an even layer across the bottom of the baking dish. Nestle the seared chicken pieces on top of the stuffing, spacing them evenly.Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the stuffing’s edges crisp to a rich golden brown.Garnish & Serve
Let the bake rest for 5 minutes on the counter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for brightness, then serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Chicken Thickness: Pound thicker pieces to an even thickness so they cook through simultaneously and remain juicy.
- Vegetable Dice: Cut onion, celery, and carrot into similar-sized pieces to ensure even tenderness.
- Searing Temperature: A well-heated pan creates a golden crust that locks in juices—avoid moving the chicken until it easily releases from the pan.
- Stuffing Texture: If you prefer softer stuffing, increase the broth by ¼ cup; for extra crunch, use the base amount and uncover earlier during baking.
- Resting Period: Allowing the bake to rest before slicing prevents juices from running out, keeping both chicken and stuffing moist.
Final Thoughts
This Herbed Chicken and Golden Stuffing Bake brings together aromatic herbs, tender poultry, and flavorful bread cubes in one satisfying casserole. It streamlines dinner prep without sacrificing homestyle taste, making it an excellent choice for busy families or casual gatherings. With its crisp-topped stuffing and succulent chicken, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite—and is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!