Trader Joe's Chicken and Cornbread Stuffing Bake for Busy Nights

When the week gets hectic and dinner needs to be both comforting and quick, this Trader Joe’s Chicken and Cornbread Stuffing Bake fits the bill perfectly. It combines creamy chicken, savory turkey gravy, and the classic cornbread stuffing mix into one warm, satisfying dish that tastes like Thanksgiving in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a cozy meal after a long day, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.

Trader Joe's Chicken and Cornbread Stuffing Bake fresh from the oven

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This dish is a lifesaver when time is short but you want something hearty and homemade. Trader Joe’s products do most of the work: their cornbread stuffing mix, turkey flavored gravy, and gourmet fried onion pieces come together with cooked chicken and a creamy soup base to create a meal that feels special without hours in the kitchen.

The recipe requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples you can keep on hand. Plus, it bakes in one dish, which means less cleanup. The result is a golden, bubbly casserole with a crispy onion topping that adds texture and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box Trader Joe’s Cornbread Stuffing Mix for Chicken

• Trader Joe’s Gourmet Fried Onion Pieces, for topping

• ½ cup Trader Joe’s Turkey Flavored Gravy

• 2 lbs cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 1 onion, diced (optional)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup if preferred)

• ¼ cup milk

  
  

These ingredients combine to create layers of flavor and texture. The stuffing mix soaks up the broth and butter, becoming soft but still slightly crumbly. The creamy soup and gravy coat the chicken, keeping it moist and rich. The fried onions on top add a satisfying crunch.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

   
   

2. Prepare the stuffing mix:

   Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper and onion, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the cornbread stuffing mix until fully combined.

   
   

3. Mix the chicken filling:

   In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and turkey flavored gravy. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

   
   

4. Assemble the casserole:

   Butter a 9×12 baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly on the bottom. Spoon the stuffing mixture over the top, spreading it out gently.

   
   

5. Bake:

   Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

   
   

6. Add the finishing touch:

   Remove from the oven and sprinkle Trader Joe’s Gourmet Fried Onion Pieces on top for extra crunch and flavor. Serve warm, with extra turkey gravy on the side if you like.

   
   

Tips for Making It Your Own

• Add vegetables: The original recipe includes green bell pepper and onion, but you can add mushrooms, celery, or even corn for extra texture and nutrition.

• Use different soups: Cream of chicken soup works well if you prefer a milder flavor.

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for a subtle kick.

• Double the batch: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it ahead of time and bake when you need a quick meal.

  
  

Why Trader Joe’s Makes This Recipe Special

Trader Joe’s products are known for quality and convenience. Their cornbread stuffing mix has a perfect balance of seasoning and texture that holds up well in casseroles. The turkey flavored gravy adds a rich, savory note that ties the dish together. The gourmet fried onion pieces give a restaurant-quality finish without extra effort.

This recipe highlights how you can use a few simple ingredients to create a meal that feels like a holiday feast any night of the week.

Perfect for Any Season

While this dish tastes like Thanksgiving, it’s not just for holidays. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food during chilly fall evenings or any time you want a filling, home-cooked meal without the fuss. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.