When it comes to hearty, no-fuss comfort food, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a timeless favorite. Creamy chicken, savory stuffing, and a rich sauce bake together into a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners, this casserole is especially popular across the United States—and just as loved in the United Kingdom and Canada for its comforting, home-style flavor.
Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and dependable results make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.
What Is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a layered baked dish made with:
Cooked chicken
Cream-based soup or sauce
Seasonings
Boxed or homemade stuffing mix
Optional vegetables
It combines tender shredded chicken with creamy sauce on the bottom and a golden, savory stuffing topping that becomes slightly crisp while baking.
This recipe is beloved because it transforms pantry staples into a rich, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
There are plenty of reasons this dish remains a family favorite:
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients
✔ Easy to prepare
✔ Feeds a crowd
✔ Perfect for leftovers
✔ Great for meal prep
It’s especially comforting during colder months in Canada and the UK, while in the U.S., it often appears at potlucks, church gatherings, and holiday tables.
Key Ingredients
1. Chicken
You can use:
Rotisserie chicken
Leftover roasted chicken
Boiled or baked chicken breasts
Canned chicken (for convenience)
Shredded chicken works best for even layering.
2. Stuffing Mix
Classic boxed stuffing mix (such as herb-seasoned varieties) is most common. You can also use homemade bread stuffing for a from-scratch version.
3. Cream Soup
Traditional recipes often use:
Cream of chicken soup
Cream of mushroom soup
Cream of celery soup
These provide the rich, creamy base that makes the casserole so comforting.
4. Sour Cream (Optional)
Adds extra creaminess and slight tang.
5. Chicken Broth
Used to moisten the stuffing and enhance flavor.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Layer
In a large bowl, mix:
3 cups shredded chicken
1 can cream of chicken soup
½ cup sour cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Spread evenly into the baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
In another bowl:
Combine stuffing mix with melted butter
Add warm chicken broth (according to package directions)
Stir until moistened but not soggy
Step 4: Assemble
Spoon stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes until hot and bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Practical Tips for Best Results
Don’t Over-Saturate the Stuffing
Too much broth can make the topping mushy instead of fluffy.
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Flavor
It saves time and adds extra seasoning depth.
Add Vegetables for Balance
You can mix in:
Frozen peas
Carrots
Green beans
Broccoli
This makes it more nutritious and colorful.
Crisp the Top
For extra crunch, broil for the final 2–3 minutes.
Delicious Variations
One reason Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole remains so popular is how adaptable it is.
Cheesy Version
Add 1–2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the chicken layer.
Thanksgiving-Style
Add dried cranberries and a sprinkle of sage for a festive twist.
Lighter Version
Use low-fat soup
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
Reduce butter slightly
Make It Creamier
Add ½ cup milk or additional broth to the chicken layer.
Serving Suggestions
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole pairs well with:
Green salad
Roasted vegetables
Cranberry sauce
Dinner rolls
Because it’s rich and hearty, lighter sides balance the meal beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Families
Life gets busy, and having dependable, easy recipes matters. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole requires minimal prep and uses everyday ingredients commonly found in kitchens across North America and the UK.
It’s ideal for:
Weeknight dinners
Potlucks
Holiday leftovers
Meal prepping
Plus, it’s a kid-friendly dish that appeals to even picky eaters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using dry chicken (add enough sauce)
❌ Overbaking (can dry out the dish)
❌ Adding too much liquid to stuffing
❌ Skipping seasoning
Balanced moisture and gentle baking ensure a perfectly creamy base with a lightly crisp topping.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is comfort food at its finest—simple, creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and golden stuffing, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table.
Whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner in the United States, preparing a comforting meal in the United Kingdom, or warming up on a chilly evening in Canada, this casserole never disappoints.