Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With its layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy stuffing, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The simplicity of the recipe combined with its satisfying flavors makes it a go-to favorite in many households.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that makes it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it also utilizes ingredients that are typically found in most pantries, which means you can whip it up without a last-minute grocery run. The creamy chicken base, paired with the buttery stuffing, creates a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Additionally, leftovers are just as delicious, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Ingredients:

4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3 large breasts)
1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size provides the perfect depth for the layers to cook evenly.
Prepare the chicken mixture by combining the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no pockets of undistributed soup. The mixture should have a thick, spreadable consistency.
Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the seasonings evenly throughout. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Transfer the chicken mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it reaches all corners of the dish.
Prepare the stuffing by combining the dry stuffing mix with melted butter in a medium bowl. Toss until the stuffing is evenly coated with butter – this will help achieve that perfect crispy top.
Add chicken broth to the stuffing mixture gradually, stirring between additions. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy. You might not need all the broth depending on your preference.
Spread the stuffing mixture over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy, and you can see the edges bubbling slightly. The aroma will tell you when it’s nearly done!
Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the casserole to set up properly and makes serving much easier.

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

This casserole is best served warm and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Store Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and it should keep well for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
If you want to enhance the dish even further, toss in some cooked vegetables like peas or carrots into the chicken mixture.
Use different types of stuffing mix, like herb or cornbread varieties, for different flavor profiles.
Adding some shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking can introduce a delicious cheesy layer.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try using leftover turkey instead of chicken, especially around the holidays. Another option is to swap out the stuffing mix with a quinoa or rice mixture for a gluten-free adaptation, keeping the flavors while accommodating dietary preferences.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly! Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce for a healthier alternative.
Does this recipe work with frozen chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe. However, if starting with frozen chicken, ensure it is fully cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients.