Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with a creamy base and a golden, buttery stuffing topping that bakes to perfection. It’s simple to put together yet incredibly satisfying, blending familiar flavors that remind you of home-cooked family dinners. Whether served for a weeknight supper or a casual gathering, this casserole delivers heartwarming goodness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole means gathering a handful of simple ingredients that each play an essential role in making this dish so delicious. From creamy elements to the crisp stuffing topping, every component works together to balance flavor, texture, and richness effortlessly.

• Shredded cooked chicken: Using rotisserie or baked chicken keeps this recipe quick and packed with tender, juicy protein.
• Cream of chicken soup: This adds a comforting, savory creaminess that melds all the ingredients together.
• Sour cream or mayonnaise: Both offer a subtle tang and richness that enhances the casserole’s smooth texture.
• Chicken broth: A splash of broth keeps the mixture moist without being too heavy.
• Stuffing mix: Whether traditional or cornbread, this forms the crispy, flavorful topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken base.
• Melted butter: Drizzled on top before baking, it helps achieve that irresistible golden crust.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together just right.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish

First things first, set your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. Taking this step seriously will make your life so much easier when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine your shredded cooked chicken with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise if you prefer), and chicken broth. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, bringing a luscious texture and layers of flavor that make each spoonful comforting and satisfying.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Pour the creamy chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This will form a rich base layer that contrasts wonderfully with the crunchy topping to come.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions, but use slightly less water than recommended. This little tweak prevents sogginess and keeps the stuffing delightfully crisp after baking. Once ready, spoon the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture. Don’t forget to drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing—it’s the secret to that gorgeous golden finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is nothing short of irresistible!

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to settle and the texture to become firm enough for perfect slices, making serving and eating an absolute pleasure.

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Garnishes

While Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is fantastic on its own, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can brighten the dish beautifully. A little fresh cracked pepper on top adds a subtle bite that complements the rich creaminess and crispy stuffing.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh green vegetables. Think steamed broccoli, garlic sautéed green beans, or a crisp mixed salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete dinner, roasted carrots or sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness that plays nicely against the savory casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You can also layer it in deep-dish pie plates for a rustic, homestyle feel or even accompany it with a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side for a festive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole tastes just as good the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, simply warm it gently in the oven or microwave to revive that fresh-baked flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, freezing is a great option. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it—cover well with foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time to ensure it heats through and achieves that perfect golden topping.

Reheating

For the best reheating results, warm your casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly again, usually around 20 to 25 minutes. This will restore the crispy topping while keeping the creamy filling moist and delicious. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispy topping texture.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie or baked chicken is perfect and makes this recipe even quicker to prepare without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Is it possible to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole dairy-free?

You can swap the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and choose a creamy soup that fits your dietary needs to make a tasty dairy-free version of this casserole.

What stuffing mix works best for this recipe?

Both traditional bread stuffing and cornbread stuffing mixes work wonderfully. Choose whichever matches your flavor preference, as both create a fantastic crispy topping.

Can I add vegetables to Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Definitely! Chopped celery, peas, or mushrooms can be stirred into the creamy chicken mixture before baking for extra texture and flavor.

How do I avoid soggy stuffing on top?

Using slightly less water than directed to prepare the stuffing prevents sogginess, and adding melted butter on top ensures a beautifully crisp, golden crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again when comfort food cravings hit. Simple to make, joyfully rich in flavor, and endlessly satisfying, this casserole is well worth making a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to dish!

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