If comfort food had a name, it would surely be Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe. This delicious casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, and perfectly crispy stuffing in one warm, inviting dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or inviting friends over, this recipe delivers heartwarming flavors that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe, it’s going to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe lies in using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each element adds its own magic—from the creamy base to the golden, crunchy topping—that makes this casserole irresistibly satisfying.
- Shredded cooked chicken: Using rotisserie or baked chicken works perfectly and gives tender, juicy protein.
- Cream of chicken soup: This adds rich creaminess and binds the casserole wonderfully.
- Sour cream or mayonnaise: Either option adds a subtle tang and extra moisture for a luscious texture.
- Chicken broth: A splash of broth keeps everything moist and flavorful without watering it down.
- Stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread): The star topping that crisps beautifully and brings savory, seasoned crunch.
- Melted butter: Drizzled on top for golden color and irresistible richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbaceousness.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want your oven fully heated to ensure the casserole cooks evenly and develops that sought-after golden crust. Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing so nothing sticks and cleanup will be a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Creamy Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded cooked chicken with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise), and chicken broth. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy base is what makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe so comforting and rich.
Step 3: Spread the Chicken Mixture in the Dish
Pour and evenly spread the creamy chicken mixture into your greased baking dish. An even layer here ensures every bite has the perfect balance of flavors and texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Topping
Follow the instructions on your stuffing mix box, but use slightly less water than called for. This helps keep the topping crispy once baked. Preparing the stuffing fresh gives your casserole that wonderful homemade crunch.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Next, spoon the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture. Then, drizzle the melted butter all over the top. This step is the secret to achieving the beautiful golden brown color and irresistible flavor on the crust of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, crispy, and you see delicious bubbles peeking around the edges. The smell alone will have you counting down the minutes.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps all the flavors marry together perfectly and makes serving easier as the casserole firms up slightly—making doling out perfect portions a joy.
How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of your casserole adds the perfect pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up the rich flavors. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of paprika can add warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
While Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe stands alone beautifully, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables brings balance and freshness to the meal. Roasted carrots or sautéed green beans complement the savory flavors perfectly without overpowering the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for charming single servings. Or for a casual family-style dinner, dish it into a rustic wooden board surrounded by crusty bread and a side of cranberry sauce to create a festive spread full of comforting textures and tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness—perfect for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it fully but don’t bake; wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra cooking time. For cooked leftovers, freeze in portions to enjoy later without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until bubbly throughout, about 20 minutes. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes helps to crisp up the topping again, making it just as amazing as fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is popular for convenience, but baked or even leftover grilled chicken works wonderfully. Just make sure it’s shredded and not too watery to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
Is there a vegetarian version of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe?
While the classic depends on chicken, you can swap shredded cooked mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Use cream of mushroom soup in place of cream of chicken to keep that creamy texture and rich flavor going strong.
What stuffing mix works best?
Traditional bread stuffing mix is classic, but cornbread stuffing adds a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that’s equally delicious. Choose whichever suits your palate and both yield fantastic results.
Can I make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut sour cream or vegan mayo, and use dairy-free butter or olive oil. Make sure to check the stuffing mix for any hidden dairy to keep it fully dairy-free.
How do I get the stuffing topping extra crispy?
Using less water than the package directs and drizzling melted butter on top are key tips. Also, baking uncovered allows the surface to dry out and brown nicely, creating that irresistible crunch.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like home, no matter where you are. With its creamy chicken base, crispy stuffing topping, and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own comfort food classic—it truly brings people together one delicious baked bite at a time.
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Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with creamy soup and sour cream, topped with savory stuffing and baked to a golden brown. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines rich flavors and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Stuffing Topping
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Chicken Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise), and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.
- Layer Chicken Mixture: Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. This forms the delicious base layer of the casserole.
- Prepare Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Use slightly less water than recommended to keep the stuffing mixture firm enough to form a nice topping.
- Add Stuffing Topping: Spoon the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture to cover it completely. Drizzle the melted butter over the top to add richness and help the stuffing brown.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the stuffing turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set for easier serving. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lower fat option, substitute sour cream with light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; bake when ready.
