Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boxes (6 oz each) Chicken flavored stuffing mix ($1.50)
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken or turkey (leftovers or budget-friendly canned) ($4.00)
- 1 bag (12 oz) frozen mixed vegetables (corn, carrots, peas, green beans) ($1.00)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup ($1.00)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt ($0.75)
- 1/2 cup melted butter ($0.50)
- 1.5 cups chicken broth or water (pantry staple)
- Salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste ($0.25)
- Total Estimated Cost: $9.00
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation and Stuffing Base. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. In a large mixing bowl, combine both boxes of stuffing mix with the required amount of boiling water (or chicken broth) and half of the melted butter according to the box directions. Fluff the stuffing with a fork and set aside about two cups of the prepared stuffing to use as a crispy topping later.
- Step 2: Mixing the Filling. In another large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and any extra seasonings like thyme, salt, and pepper. Fold in the shredded chicken (or turkey) and the frozen mixed vegetables. If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to reach a creamy, gravy-like consistency. Spread the remaining stuffing mix (the portion not set aside for the top) into the bottom of your greased baking dish to create a solid base layer.
- Step 3: Layering and Baking. Pour the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the stuffing base. Sprinkle the reserved two cups of stuffing over the top of the casserole to ensure a crunchy texture. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the stuffing crumbs. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the stuffing on top is golden brown and crispy. If you prepared this ahead of time and it is cold from the fridge, add 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Step 4: Plating. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy sauce to set slightly so it doesn’t run. Scoop large portions onto plates and serve alongside a bit of cranberry sauce if you have some in the pantry. The dish is a complete meal on its own, offering protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes