Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

When it comes to cozy, comforting casseroles, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a standout. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy stuffing, and a rich creamy sauce, all baked together into a deliciously satisfying one-pan meal. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or for feeding a crowd during the holidays.

 

This casserole is simple to make, and its blend of flavors will quickly become a go-to family favorite. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making the perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole every time.

 

🍴 Why Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a Winner

✔️ Quick and Easy to Make

 

With minimal prep and a short baking time, this casserole is as convenient as it is delicious.

 

✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep

 

It stores well in the fridge for leftovers and can even be frozen for later use.

 

✔️ Comforting and Hearty

 

A full meal in one dish, combining protein, carbs, and a creamy sauce.

 

✔️ Customizable

 

You can add vegetables, use different seasonings, or swap in other proteins to suit your taste.

 

🧑‍🍳 Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

For the Casserole:

 

Cooked chicken (shredded or diced, about 3 cups)

 

Chicken stuffing mix (one box, or homemade stuffing if preferred)

 

Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)

 

Sour cream (1/2 cup)

 

Chicken broth (1/2 cup)

 

Butter (1/4 cup, melted)

 

Shredded cheese (optional, for a cheesy topping)

 

Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or sage)

 

Optional Add-ins:

 

Frozen peas or carrots for extra vegetables

 

Celery or onions for more flavor depth

 

🍳 How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

 

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Stuffing

 

Shred or dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or bake fresh chicken breasts.

 

In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions (or prepare your own homemade stuffing if you prefer).

 

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

 

In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and melted butter. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs (like thyme or sage) to taste.

 

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

 

In a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom.

 

Top the chicken with the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing it down slightly.

 

Pour the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

 

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.

 

Step 5: Bake

 

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes.

 

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

 

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

 

Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve in neat portions.

 

🌟 Tips for Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

✅ Use Shredded Rotisserie Chicken

 

Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option that saves time in this recipe.

 

✅ Don’t Skip the Seasoning

 

Even though the stuffing mix is seasoned, adding extra garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs (like sage or thyme) enhances the flavor of the dish.

 

✅ Add Vegetables for More Flavor

 

Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or onions will make the casserole even more hearty and balanced. Simply stir them into the creamy sauce mixture.

 

✅ Cheese Topping for Extra Richness

 

For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend over the casserole during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

 

🥄 Variations to Try

🥩 Turkey and Stuffing Casserole

 

Use cooked turkey in place of chicken for a festive twist, especially after Thanksgiving.

 

🌿 Vegetarian Casserole

 

Skip the chicken and replace with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.

 

🍠 Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

 

Add mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a sweeter, more fall-inspired variation.

 

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

 

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is filling on its own, but pairs wonderfully with:

 

Steamed or roasted vegetables (like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts)

 

Crispy garlic bread or dinner rolls

 

Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette

 

🧊 Storage and Freezing Tips

Refrigeration

 

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

 

Freezing

 

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes.

 

🌍 Why This Recipe Works Across US, UK, and Canadian Kitchens

 

This casserole uses simple, widely available ingredients and standard cooking techniques that are familiar across different regions. The recipe can be easily adapted to local tastes by swapping in different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings.

 

Conclusion

 

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, hearty, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a warm, filling dinner, this dish