If you’re searching for comfort food that’s both heartwarming and irresistibly easy to make, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is sure to win your heart (and tastebuds). With layers of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and perfectly creamy sauce, this dish is a mainstay for busy weeknights or cherished family gatherings. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your table with smiles, all while requiring just a handful of pantry staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole so special? It’s the harmony of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component adds something beautiful—whether it’s flavor, richness, or that signature golden topping you can’t resist!
- Cooked Chicken (4 cups, shredded or cubed): Rotisserie chicken is speedy and tasty, or use leftovers for extra flavor.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This is the creamy backbone of your casserole, making every bite luscious.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a mellow tang and more body to your creamy sauce.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Helps create that perfectly pourable, velvety texture.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): A subtle hint of garlicky flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion Powder (1/2 tsp): Rounds out the flavor with gentle, savory undertones.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors—taste as you go!
- Stuffing Mix (1 box, 6 oz): Choose your favorite herbed version for extra flavor and nostalgia.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Binds and flavors the stuffing, giving it that golden, crisp top.
- Chicken Broth (1 1/2 cups): Moistens the stuffing mix and adds even more savory goodness.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Set the tone for a quick, breezy cooking session by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this makes cleanup a breeze and ensures nothing sticks as your casserole bakes to bubbly perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
Grab a large bowl and combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, plus a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth. Add your cooked chicken and gently toss until every juicy piece is cloaked in that dreamy, savory sauce. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, laying the foundation for your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
In a separate bowl, add the dry stuffing mix, followed by the melted butter and chicken broth. Stir everything until the stuffing is nicely moistened but still slightly crumbly—this ensures an irresistibly textured topping. Spoon the stuffing over your chicken layer, spreading it evenly so every bite has a perfect balance of flavors and crunch.
Step 4: Bake to Golden, Bubbly Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and bubbly, inviting edges. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking—this not only makes serving neater but also gives the flavors a chance to settle and mingle.
How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Garnishes
Take Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole over the top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a handful of scallions, or even a dusting of paprika. These bright, fragrant extras make your casserole look as lovely as it tastes, adding pops of color and a fresh finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole practically begs for classic, southern-style sides. Try serving it alongside green beans or roasted carrots for color and crunch. A simple salad with a zesty vinaigrette or buttery mashed potatoes also pairs beautifully, letting the casserole’s homey flavors shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the 9×13! Spoon Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole into ramekins for individual portions, or even bake it in a cast iron skillet for a country-inspired presentation. It’s also a great dish for potlucks—just bake, cool slightly, and transport in your favorite serving dish for easy sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps like a dream! Store any extras tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors develop beautifully, making each reheat as comforting as the first serving.
Freezing
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole freezes well unbaked or after baking. Wrap individual portions or the whole casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ve got a homemade meal ready whenever you need a little comfort.
Reheating
Reheat individual squares in the microwave for quick lunches, or pop the whole casserole (covered with foil) into a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling. If you love the crunchy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp things up again.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey works beautifully in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, making it a fantastic way to use up holiday leftovers. The flavors are just as comforting and delicious.
What vegetables can I add to the casserole?
Try stirring in 1/2 cup of cooked peas, carrots, or green beans to the chicken mixture before baking. This adds extra texture, nutrition, and pops of color without complicating the recipe.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten free?
Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free stuffing mix (and check your soup choice) to craft a gluten-free version of this classic comfort dish. The results are just as rewarding.
Can I assemble Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. Prep and assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and proceed as directed.
What’s the best way to keep the stuffing topping from getting soggy?
Be sure to mix the stuffing just until moistened—don’t overdo the liquids. Baking uncovered helps the top get golden and crisp while leaving that deliciously tender layer underneath.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about sharing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with friends or family—a little bit of nostalgia, a whole lot of flavor, and a simple recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your kitchen (and your loved ones) will thank you for it!
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Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful chicken and stuffing casserole that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. This recipe, inspired by Dolly Parton, combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and savory stuffing for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1 (6-ounce) box stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add cooked chicken and spread in the baking dish.
- Make Stuffing: In a separate bowl, combine stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Spoon evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas or green beans for extra texture and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
