Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a wildly comforting, soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, and a crunchy, buttery stuffing topping to create a one-dish wonder that has all the flavors of a cozy family dinner. It’s an effortless, crowd-pleasing casserole that turns simple pantry staples into an irresistible meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the casserole’s luscious creaminess, savory depth, and that satisfying crispy topping we all love.

• Cooked and shredded chicken (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken works perfectly, adding rich flavor and tenderness without extra effort.
• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): This forms the creamy base, blending beautifully with the chicken for that classic casserole texture.
• Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): Adds earthiness and additional creaminess; you can swap it with another cream soup if preferred.
• Sour cream (1 cup): Perfect for a tangy creaminess that elevates the overall richness of the filling.
• Milk (½ cup): Lightens the mixture slightly, ensuring the filling is silky smooth and not too dense.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle savory kick that complements the herbs and chicken.
• Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Brings a hint of earthy freshness to balance the creamy textures.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Enhances flavor with a mild heat that wakes up the palate.
• Salt (½ teaspoon, adjusted to taste): Essential for brightening all the other flavors.
• Stuffing mix (1 box, 6 ounces): The star of the crunchy topping, this adds texture and that irresistible buttery crispness.
• Melted butter (½ cup): Coats the stuffing for a golden, rich crust that seals in flavor.
• Chicken broth (1½ cups): Hydrates the stuffing mix, making it moist and flavorful as it bakes.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): For extra richness and a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Frozen peas (½ cup, optional): Adds a pop of color, texture, and a subtle sweetness for an extra veggie boost.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and ready for baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you’re left with a smooth, well-blended mixture that’s bursting with savory goodness.

Step 3: Layer the Filling

Spread the hearty chicken mixture evenly across your prepared baking dish. This layer will be the moist, flavorful base that makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole so satisfying.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Stuffing Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the stuffing mix with the melted butter and chicken broth, stirring well until the crumbs absorb the broth and butter, becoming wonderfully moist and ready to crisp up in the oven. Spread this evenly over the chicken layer. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffing for an extra layer of richness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re aiming for a top that’s golden brown and bubbling with deliciousness. The aroma alone will have you eager to dig in!

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This little pause helps everything set nicely so that when you serve your slices, they hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves on top adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich flavors of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. If you want a bit of zing, a few red pepper flakes can bring a subtle heat that livens up every bite.

Side Dishes

This casserole packs a punch all by itself but pairs incredibly well with crisp steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Mashed potatoes are another classic choice if you want to keep the meal ultra-comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive touch, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins. Top with a little extra cheese and broil for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden crust just before serving. This presentation is perfect for holidays or special dinners and really showcases Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole as the star of the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your casserole has cooled completely, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer—just add extra time to ensure it heats through evenly.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes will help restore that crisp, golden topping that makes this dish so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chicken for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! You can use leftover roasted chicken, poached chicken breast, or even rotisserie chicken, which is a favorite shortcut that adds fantastic flavor without extra work.

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of mushroom, cream of celery or cream of broccoli soups make excellent substitutes that keep the casserole creamy and flavorful.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Look for a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your soup cans are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the cozy flavors without the gluten.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Frozen peas work wonderfully, as mentioned, but you can also add chopped carrots, celery, or green beans for extra texture and nutrition.

How do I make the stuffing topping extra crispy?

Use plenty of melted butter and avoid over-soaking the stuffing with broth. Also, baking uncovered helps the topping crisp up beautifully, giving you that delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, evokes warm memories, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this casserole is a reliable, delicious go-to that’s sure to become a timeless favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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