Creamy Delight: Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing Recipes You’ll Love
Chicken and stuffing are a classic comfort food combination, but sometimes we crave a little something extra to elevate this simple dish. Enter sour cream – the tangy, creamy addition that transforms ordinary chicken and stuffing into a truly delectable and unforgettable meal. This article explores various sour cream chicken and stuffing recipes, offering detailed steps and instructions to guide you through the cooking process. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
Why Sour Cream? The Secret Ingredient
Before diving into the recipes, let’s understand why sour cream is such a fantastic addition to chicken and stuffing. Sour cream brings several key elements to the table:
* **Creaminess:** It adds a luscious, velvety texture that coats the chicken and stuffing, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
* **Tanginess:** The subtle tanginess of sour cream balances the richness of the chicken and stuffing, preventing the dish from becoming overly heavy.
* **Moisture:** Sour cream helps keep the chicken moist and tender during baking, preventing it from drying out.
* **Flavor Depth:** It contributes a unique flavor profile that complements the other ingredients, adding complexity and interest to the dish.
Recipe 1: Classic Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing Bake
This recipe is a simple yet elegant take on the classic chicken and stuffing bake, enhanced with the creamy goodness of sour cream.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 (6-ounce) package stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
* 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup melted butter
* 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the stuffing:** In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chicken broth, melted butter, onion, celery, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the stuffing is moistened.
3. **Prepare the chicken:** Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
4. **Top with sour cream:** Spread the sour cream evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. **Add the stuffing:** Spoon the prepared stuffing over the sour cream-covered chicken.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown and heated through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Garnish (optional):** Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use bone-in, skin-on chicken:** For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces instead of boneless, skinless breasts. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Add vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the stuffing, such as chopped carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to customize the flavor of the stuffing.
* **Add cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, over the stuffing during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
* **Make it ahead:** You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Recipe 2: Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with Mushroom Gravy
This casserole version features a flavorful mushroom gravy that complements the creamy chicken and stuffing perfectly. This is a complete meal in one dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 (6-ounce) package stuffing mix
* 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the stuffing:** In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, 1 1/2 cups chicken broth, and 1/4 cup melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
3. **Prepare the chicken:** In a separate bowl, combine the chicken pieces, sour cream, onion, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
4. **Assemble the casserole:** Spread the chicken mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the prepared stuffing.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Prepare the mushroom gravy:** While the casserole is baking, prepare the mushroom gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
7. **Make the roux:** Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and sherry (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. **Serve:** Pour the mushroom gravy over the baked chicken and stuffing casserole. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different types of mushrooms:** Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello, for a more complex flavor.
* **Add garlic:** Add a minced clove of garlic to the mushrooms while cooking for extra flavor.
* **Use cream instead of sour cream:** For an even richer and creamier sauce, you can substitute heavy cream for the sour cream in the chicken mixture.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Replace the chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
* **Add a crispy topping:** Sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the stuffing before baking for a crispy topping.
Recipe 3: Slow Cooker Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work!
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 (6-ounce) package stuffing mix
* 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a bowl, mix together the stuffing mix, chicken broth, melted butter, sour cream, onion, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. **Pour over chicken:** Pour the stuffing mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
4. **Cook:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. **Shred the chicken (optional):** If desired, shred the chicken with two forks before serving. This will help distribute the chicken throughout the stuffing.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot, directly from the slow cooker.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add vegetables:** Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken and stuffing.
* **Use bone-in chicken:** You can use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless breasts. This will add more flavor to the dish. Just ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
* **Adjust the cooking time:** The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the chicken for doneness periodically.
* **Add a can of cream of mushroom soup:** For an even creamier dish, add a can of cream of mushroom soup to the stuffing mixture.
* **Use different types of stuffing:** Experiment with different types of stuffing mix, such as cornbread stuffing or herb stuffing.
Recipe 4: Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing Skillet
This one-skillet meal is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It’s also great for camping or other outdoor cooking situations.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 (6-ounce) package stuffing mix
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the chicken:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the onion and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. **Add the stuffing and broth:** Stir in the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the stuffing is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. **Stir in sour cream and chicken:** Stir in the sour cream and cooked chicken. Heat through for a minute or two, until everything is warmed through.
5. **Garnish and serve:** Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use pre-cooked chicken:** For an even faster meal, use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.
* **Add vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the skillet, such as chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or oregano.
* **Add cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, over the skillet during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
* **Use a cast iron skillet:** A cast iron skillet will help to create a crispy crust on the bottom of the stuffing.
Recipe 5: Sour Cream Chicken and Stuffing Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a fun and flavorful twist on stuffed peppers, incorporating the creamy chicken and stuffing combination. It’s a visually appealing and delicious meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 large bell peppers (any color)
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
* 1 (6-ounce) package stuffing mix
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the peppers:** Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the pepper halves in a baking dish.
3. **Prepare the stuffing:** In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chicken broth, melted butter, sour cream, onion, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded chicken.
4. **Stuff the peppers:** Spoon the stuffing mixture into the bell pepper halves.
5. **Top with cheese:** Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Serve:** Serve hot, directly from the baking dish.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different types of cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan.
* **Add vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the stuffing, such as chopped mushrooms, corn, or black beans.
* **Use ground chicken or turkey:** Substitute ground chicken or turkey for the shredded chicken.
* **Add a spicy kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a spicy kick.
* **Use different colors of bell peppers:** Use a variety of colors of bell peppers for a more visually appealing dish.
Serving Suggestions
Sour cream chicken and stuffing can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Green salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and stuffing.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Cranberry sauce:** Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to chicken and stuffing, providing a sweet and tart flavor.
* **Mashed potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and complementary side dish.
* **Green beans:** Steamed or sautéed green beans add a simple and healthy side dish.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your sour cream chicken and stuffing turns out perfectly every time:
* **Don’t overcook the chicken:** Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Use high-quality ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients will result in a more flavorful and delicious dish.
* **Don’t skip the seasoning:** Seasoning is key to creating a flavorful dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
* **Adjust the amount of sour cream to your taste:** If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add more sour cream. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less sour cream.
* **Let the dish rest before serving:** Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving will allow the flavors to meld together and the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Sour cream chicken and stuffing is a versatile and delicious dish that can be adapted to suit your taste and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a creamy and flavorful meal that everyone will love! Experiment with the different variations and tips to create your own signature sour cream chicken and stuffing recipe. Happy cooking!