As I pulled the Thanksgiving Chicken and Stuffing Bake from the oven, the aroma wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, instantly transporting me to the heart of holiday celebrations. This comforting one-pan meal, featuring succulent chicken thighs layered over herb-infused stuffing, is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty dish that brings the family together—no holiday required! Not only does it save on cleanup with just a single dish to wash, but it also offers an easy gravy that elevates the whole experience without a fuss. So why wait for Thanksgiving to enjoy these flavors? Ready to dive into a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe So Special?

Comforting Flavor: The combination of tender chicken thighs and savory herb stuffing creates a warm hug of flavors that everyone loves.
One-Pan Wonder: Simplify your cooking process with this easy, one-dish meal that minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Effortless Gravy: No need for complicated sauces! The easy gravy is made right in the same pan, ensuring every drop is packed with flavor—perfect drizzled over the succulent chicken and stuffing.
Versatile Options: Adjust the recipe according to your preferences, whether it’s swapping chicken thighs for breasts or experimenting with different herbs. You can even pair it with tasty sides like a simple autumn salad or roasted green beans for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish transports the essence of Thanksgiving to your table any day, making it a guaranteed hit with family and friends—no holiday needed! Ready to make your own delicious memories?

Chicken and Stuffing Bake Ingredients

• Gather these simple ingredients for the best Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy Recipe.

For the Stuffing

Butter – Adds rich flavor and helps soften veggies; use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Sweet Onion – Provides natural sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Diced Celery – Adds crunch and freshness—essential for flavor depth.
Garlic Cloves – Minced for a punch of warmth in every bite.
Kosher Salt and Pepper – Fundamental for seasoning and enhancing the meld of flavors.
Fresh Herbs (Sage, Parsley, Thyme) – Infuses the dish with classic Thanksgiving aromas that are oh-so-comforting.
Bread Cubes – The base of stuffing—prefer day-old bread for better texture and absorption.
Chicken Stock – Moistens the stuffing and serves as the gravy base; homemade or quality store-bought works well.
Egg – Binds the stuffing to ensure it holds together perfectly.

For the Chicken

Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs – Chosen for their juiciness; can be swapped with chicken breasts, though they may dry out faster.
Olive Oil – Essential for searing the chicken to a golden finish—don’t skip this!
Garlic Powder, Dried Sage, Dried Oregano – This seasoning trio brings depth and flavor to the chicken.

For the Gravy

Flour – Thickens the gravy for a rich consistency; ensure it’s well incorporated to avoid lumps.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy that’ll win over hearts and taste buds alike!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Veggies
Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion, celery, and minced garlic, seasoning them with kosher salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant, then stir in the chopped fresh herbs. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld before removing the mixture from the heat.

Step 2: Prepare Stuffing Base
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. In the dish, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed veggie-herb mixture, tossing gently to ensure the bread is evenly coated. This Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy will have a delicious foundation, so make sure the bread absorbs as much flavor as possible in this step.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of chicken stock and 1 beaten egg until smooth. Once combined, pour this mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to incorporate. Add a drizzle of melted butter on top to enhance flavor as you prepare for baking the stuffing, which will create a wonderfully moist base.

Step 4: Initial Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing begins to set and the edges appear golden brown. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as you prepare the chicken for the next step.

Step 5: Brown Chicken
While the stuffing bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with garlic powder, dried sage, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and sear for another 3-4 minutes. This step ensures the chicken has a beautiful crust that locks in moisture.

Step 6: Combine & Final Bake
Carefully remove the partially baked stuffing from the oven and place the browned chicken thighs evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The combination of chicken and stuffing creates a hearty, comforting meal that fills the kitchen with tantalizing aromas.

Step 7: Make Gravy
Using the same skillet you used to brown the chicken, over medium heat, combine 1 cup of chicken stock with 2 tablespoons of flour. Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10-20 minutes, ensuring there are no lumps. This easy gravy can then be drizzled over the Chicken and Stuffing Bake, adding a silky finish to your dish that ties everything together.

Step 8: Serve
Once baked, allow the Chicken and Stuffing Bake to rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and drizzle generously with the homemade gravy. This heartwarming Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy is ready to delight your family and friends, turning any meal into a comforting celebration.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Stuffing Bake

Fridge: Leftover Chicken and Stuffing Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken and Stuffing Bake in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain the stuffing’s crispness, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and remove it for the last few minutes for a golden top.

Single Dish Convenience: Keeping this heartwarming Chicken and Stuffing Bake in one dish makes it easy to store and serve, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors of Thanksgiving anytime!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy

A cozy meal deserves delightful companions that complement its comforting flavors and textures.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These classic, buttery potatoes provide a rich side that blends beautifully with the savory gravy for an indulgent experience.
Roasted Green Beans: Their crispness offers a fresh contrast to the rich stuffing while adding a pop of vibrant color to your plate.
Simple Autumn Salad: A mix of greens tossed with cranberries and walnuts brings brightness and crunch, balancing out the hearty casserole beautifully.
Steamed Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the earthy notes of the chicken and stuffing, creating a balanced and wholesome meal.
Cranberry Sauce: This tangy-sweet condiment cuts through the richness and adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights can echo the stuffing flavors while offering a warm, gooey texture that everyone loves.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy—who can resist that?
Apple Cider: A glass of chilled cider enhances the autumnal feel and provides a sweet, refreshing sip alongside each bite.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, this classic holiday treat adds a touch of sweetness to round off the meal and keep the festive spirit alive.

Expert Tips for Chicken and Stuffing Bake

Choose Chicken Wisely: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for juiciness; if using breasts, watch closely as they cook faster and can dry out.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure bread cubes are well combined with the veggie mixture to capture every flavorful bite of this Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy.
Mind the Gravy: Whisk the flour into the chicken stock slowly to avoid lumps; a smooth gravy enhances the overall dish and keeps it luscious.
Bread Selection Matters: Use thick slices of sturdy bread to maintain stuffing integrity; day-old bread is best as it soaks up moisture without turning mushy.
Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to settle—this can elevate your Chicken and Stuffing Bake experience.

Make Ahead Options

This Thanksgiving Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy days! You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the sautéed veggies and bread cubes, then covering it tightly and refrigerating. For optimal flavor, let it come to room temperature before adding the chicken and baking. If you prefer, you can season the chicken thighs and refrigerate them for up to 3 days as well. When you’re ready to cook, simply layer the chicken on the prepped stuffing, bake as directed, and enjoy a delightful, homemade meal that’s just as delicious and comforting!

Chicken and Stuffing Bake Variations

Customize your Chicken and Stuffing Bake to delight your taste buds with these fun, flavorful twists!

Herb Swap: Change fresh herbs based on what’s on hand, like swapping sage for rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Chicken Breasts: Swap bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with boneless breasts for a leaner option; just keep an eye on cooking times to avoid dryness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or cornbread to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests, without compromising on taste.
More Veggies: Add diced carrots or mushrooms to the veggie mix for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, enhancing the overall comfort factor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken for a subtle heat that invigorates each bite, perfect for those who love a bit of spice!
Creamy Gravy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy for a luscious, velvety texture that adds richness to the final dish.
Savory Mushrooms: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the stuffing for an earthy flavor boost, creating a heartier experience that everyone will love.

This Chicken and Stuffing Bake pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed carrots or roasted green beans—keep the flavors flowing! Happy cooking!

Chicken and Stuffing Bake with Easy Gravy Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump with skin intact. Fresh thighs should have a pink hue without any dark spots or discoloration. Additionally, bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re opting for chicken breasts instead, they should be firm and have a light pink color, but keep in mind they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.

How do I store leftovers properly?
Very importantly! Leftover Chicken and Stuffing Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing. For reheating, you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave it until warm. If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option!

Can I freeze the Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Chicken and Stuffing Bake for up to 3 months. To do so, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a tightly sealed freezer-safe container. For best results, consider dividing it into portions for easier reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What should I do if the stuffing is too soggy?
If you find yourself with a soggy stuffing, don’t worry! This can happen if you add too much liquid or if the bread used doesn’t absorb well. To troubleshoot, consider adding more bread cubes or a bit of cornmeal to help absorb excess moisture. Adding the stuffing during the initial bake will also help it firm up—allowing it to toast and crisp slightly while it bakes with the chicken on top can work wonders too!

Is this dish suitable for my gluten-free guests?
Definitely! To make this Chicken and Stuffing Bake gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread cubes with gluten-free bread or even cornbread for a delightful twist. Be sure to check all other ingredients—like chicken stock—for gluten-free labels, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal together.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! I often prepare the stuffing mixture a day ahead. Just sauté the veggies and mix everything together, then store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let the stuffing come to room temperature before adding the chicken and baking. This not only saves time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.