Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is exactly what you need. This casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a buttery stuffing crust for a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It’s simple to make but delivers a satisfying, homemade taste that can brighten any dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to customize and perfect for weeknights or potlucks. Once you try Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s going to be your go-to comfort food recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, moisture, and that irresistible crispy topping.

• 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, and it adds a wonderful savory taste without extra effort.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This brings creamy richness and ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
• 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise: Adds tang and creaminess, making every bite lush and satisfying.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the filling moist and flavorful without being too heavy.
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread): The star of the topping, providing that delightful crunchy, buttery crust.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps golden the stuffing topping beautifully and adds depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

First, grab a large bowl and combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently until it’s well mixed and creamy. This mixture forms the heart of the casserole—rich, savory, and packed with tender chicken.

Step 2: Arrange the Casserole Filling

Next, spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates a smooth base for the stuffing topping, ensuring every bite has a perfect layer of that creamy chicken goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter. Toss them together until the crumbs are evenly coated in butter, which will help them toast up golden and crunchy in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Stuffing Layer and Bake

Sprinkle the buttered stuffing mix evenly over the chicken mixture, covering the top completely. Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the stuffing is golden brown and crispy around the edges. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is bubbly and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure comfort.

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm, creamy casserole. If you like a bit of tang, a dollop of sour cream on individual servings can enhance flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, colorful sides like a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For heartier meals, roasted root vegetables or mashed potatoes complement Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole perfectly, making your meal wholesome and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personalized touch. You can also add shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust twist, or mix in sautéed mushrooms or a handful of fresh herbs into the filling for added layers of flavor that surprise and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making it an excellent choice for next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking to save time on busy days. Store it tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge then bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that crispy stuffing topping. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works fine but the crunch won’t be quite the same—still just as delicious, though.

FAQs

Can I use homemade stuffing mix instead of the boxed version?

Absolutely! Homemade stuffing adds a personal touch and you can customize herbs and flavors. Just make sure it’s slightly dry so it crisps up nicely during baking.

What other proteins can I substitute in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Turkey works wonderfully as a substitute and keeps the comforting vibe. Leftover ham or even shredded pork can be tasty alternatives if you want to mix things up.

Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the sour cream or mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup. Be sure your stuffing mix doesn’t contain butter, or use a plant-based substitute for the melted butter.

How do I make this casserole more flavorful?

Adding sautéed onions, garlic, or fresh herbs like rosemary and sage to the chicken mixture can deepen the flavor. A little grated cheese folded in can also bring extra richness.

Can I make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free stuffing mix and confirm that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. There are many great gluten-free options available that won’t sacrifice taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

Trying Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole means welcoming a cozy, soul-satisfying meal into your home that everyone will love. Its ease and heartiness make it a fantastic recipe for any occasion, especially when you want something homemade without a fuss. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite comfort food to cherish and share!

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