Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your home with a delicious aroma. If you’re looking for a comforting dish to bring your family together, then this casserole is a must-try! It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix everything together and let the oven do the work!

This recipe is truly special to me because it offers a cozy taste of home. Whether you’re hosting friends for a potluck or just craving something hearty on a chilly evening, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this creamy dish topped with crispy stuffing.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep—assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite is bursting with savory goodness that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delightful casserole. Here’s what you’ll need to create Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

• 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
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is how flexible it is! You can easily customize this dish to fit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or chopped broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the flavor: Experiment with different types of stuffing mixes like herb or garlic for unique flavors.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese before baking for an ooey-gooey texture!

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Greasing your baking dish beforehand ensures that nothing sticks during baking, making cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Base

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir everything until smooth. This creamy mixture forms the heart of your casserole—it’s where all that delicious flavor comes from!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Next, prepare your stuffing mix according to package instructions but use slightly less water than suggested. This helps prevent sogginess!

Step 4: Top with Stuffing

Spoon the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture, creating a lovely layer on top. Drizzle melted butter across this layer to help achieve that beautiful golden finish as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place your casserole in the oven uncovered for about 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with goodness.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps all those flavors meld together beautifully while also giving you the best texture.

Now you’re ready to serve up Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole! Enjoy every comforting bite with your loved ones—it truly is a dish made for sharing!

Pro Tips for Making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Creating the perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is easier than you might think, especially with these handy tips!

• Use leftover chicken: This dish is a fantastic way to use up any leftover chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully because it’s already seasoned and moist, saving you time and effort.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a creamier casserole, consider adding an extra dollop of sour cream or even some cream cheese. This enhances the richness and makes every bite even more delightful.
• Customize your stuffing: Feel free to experiment with different types of stuffing mixes! Cornbread stuffing adds a touch of sweetness, while traditional herb stuffing brings out classic flavors that pair perfectly with chicken.
• Don’t skip the rest time: Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving allows it to set properly, making it easier to scoop and serve without falling apart. Plus, it lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance—just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a real lifesaver for busy weeknights or entertaining guests!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is not just delicious; it also presents beautifully when served right! Here are some ideas on how to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions on top provides a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly while also making it look more appealing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring warmth and earthiness to your plate. Their natural sweetness balances out the savory components of the casserole.
• Simple garden salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: For those who love carbs, crusty garlic bread makes for an indulgent side that everyone will enjoy dipping into any leftover sauce from the casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week. With easy storage options, you can make it in advance and savor the flavors whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole but do not bake it yet.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If refrigerated, bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• If frozen, cover with foil and bake for about 60 minutes, removing foil for the last 15 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

Can I use leftover chicken for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred it and mix as directed.

How can I make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole healthier?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and choose whole grain stuffing mix for a healthier twist while keeping all that comfort!

Is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I add vegetables to Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings families together around the dinner table. Its creamy goodness paired with crispy stuffing creates a delightful balance that will surely leave everyone asking for seconds. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with loved ones. Don’t forget to share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turns out!