Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing comfort classic that delivers old-fashioned goodness in every bite, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is about to steal your heart. Imagine juicy shredded chicken nestled under a creamy, savory sauce and crowned with golden, buttery stuffing. This is a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out—easy enough for a weeknight, yet special enough for Sunday supper. Gather around the table, because this casserole brings everyone together in the most delicious way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients list for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is short but mighty—each component adds a layer of texture, flavor, or that signature irresistible aroma. Let’s break down why you need every item and how they work their magic in this cozy casserole.
- Shredded cooked chicken (2–3 cups): Rotisserie or baked chicken gives you juicy, flavorful meat without any extra work—perfect for using leftovers!
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Acts as a creamy, savory binder that pulls the whole casserole together, giving it that luscious comfort factor.
- Sour cream or mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Just the right amount of tang and richness; either option works beautifully, depending on your family’s preference.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Adds depth and just enough moisture to keep things tender, not soggy.
- Stuffing mix (1 box, 6 oz, traditional or cornbread): The ultimate shortcut! Stuffing mix turns golden and crisp, infusing each bite with their herbs and irresistible crunch.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Drizzled on top, it gives your stuffing that gorgeous, golden finish and rich flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste and season to make the flavors pop.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This guarantees your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll want every last bite easily scooped from the pan!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayo), and chicken broth. Stir until everything is evenly blended. Don’t be afraid to taste and season with salt and pepper—this is the base of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, so you want it deeply flavorful from the start.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spread your creamy chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. This step lays down that luscious foundation, guaranteeing every serving is moist, savory, and satisfying.
Step 4: Prepare and Add Stuffing
Prepare your stuffing mix according to the package directions, but use slightly less water than called for. This little trick keeps the stuffing light and crispy on top, instead of soggy. Gently spoon the prepared stuffing over the chicken layer, spreading it evenly and not pressing it down—you want a lovely, craggy top.
Step 5: The Buttery Crown
Drizzle your melted butter all over the stuffing layer. This is the secret to that tempting golden crust that just begs you to dig in! The smell already wafting from the kitchen is irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a rich golden brown and the edges are bubbling invitingly. Give it a few more minutes if you want an even deeper crust—just don’t walk away or you’ll miss the delicious aroma!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to slice. It’s the hardest part—but it’s worth it for that perfect, tidy scoop!
How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or even a few thyme leaves brings a pop of color and that “special touch” right before serving. For a homestyle finish, a little fresh-cracked black pepper or a quick dusting of paprika works wonders too.
Side Dishes
This casserole is truly hearty and stands well on its own, but it shines even brighter with simple sides. Try pairing with steamed green beans, a classic tossed salad, or roasted carrots—each adds freshness and balances the richness of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve straight from the baking dish for that rustic, family-style charm. Want to impress? Portion out the casserole into ramekins for individual servings. For a cozy brunch, add a poached egg on top of each portion—the runny yolk with the stuffing is pure magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover the cooled casserole with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Kept in the refrigerator, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole stays delicious for up to 3 days—making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy schedules.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in foil after cooling or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—you’ll be grateful for an easy comfort dinner on a busy night.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot all the way through, about 20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the stuffing. You can also zap individual servings in the microwave for a quick lunch—just add a splash of broth to keep things moist.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is wonderfully versatile, and swapping cooked turkey for chicken is especially handy after the holidays. The result is every bit as tasty and comforting.
What’s the best stuffing mix to use?
Use your family’s favorite—traditional or cornbread both work well. If you want extra herby flavor, toss in a pinch of dried sage or thyme before baking.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Stir in a cup of frozen peas, carrots, or chopped broccoli with the chicken mixture. It bulks up the casserole and adds extra nutrition without any extra fuss.
Is it possible to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead?
You sure can. Assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 20 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Try using dairy-free sour cream and a creamy soup alternative (there are vegan or lactose-free options at most stores). Use olive oil instead of butter for the topping, and you’ll still enjoy all the classic flavors.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of dish that turns any meal into a memory—homey, hearty, and irresistibly tasty. The steps couldn’t be easier, and the results are always a hit. So gather your ingredients, invite a few friends over, and watch how quickly this comfort food favorite disappears from the table!
Print
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy base and savory stuffing. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
For the Stuffing:
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Prepare stuffing mix as directed, using slightly less water to avoid sogginess.
- Add Stuffing: Spoon the stuffing over the chicken mixture. Drizzle melted butter across the top for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and edges are bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Chicken, Stuffing, Casserole, Comfort Food
