1 word: YUM!

Chicken Mushroom Stuffing Casserole is a heartwarming dish that carries with it the essence of Sunday family dinners in the Midwest. This delectable combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and savory stuffing has been a staple in my family for generations. My grandmother used to whip up this comforting casserole for church potlucks and family reunions, and now I am delighted to share it with you. The simplicity of this recipe belies the depth of flavor it offers, making it a timeless favorite for any occasion.

This casserole pairs beautifully with classic Midwestern sides like buttery mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and a bright, tangy cranberry sauce. For a bit of crunch, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. And, of course, no meal would be complete without some freshly baked dinner rolls to soak up all those delicious juices.

Servings: 6

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cups prepared stuffing mix
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup melted butter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onions and celery until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, another 5 minutes.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, prepared stuffing mix, and dried thyme.

5. In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, and black pepper until well blended.

6. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and stuffing mixture, stirring gently to combine.

7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.

9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole before baking. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup if you prefer an even richer, chicken-forward flavor. If you're looking to add more vegetables, incorporate some chopped carrots or peas into the sautéed mixture. For a lighter twist, use low-sodium soup and opt for reduced-fat sour cream.