Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor in every bite. This make-ahead-friendly dish is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy holidays. With tender shredded chicken and a rich creamy base topped with perfectly crisp stuffing, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this casserole in no time.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of creamy chicken and crispy stuffing creates a delightful taste that pleases everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a weeknight dinner, this casserole adapts to any occasion with ease.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
• Comforting Meal: This dish embodies comfort food with its warm, hearty flavors that feel like a hug on a plate.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole even easier. Gather these essential items before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for baking casseroles evenly while allowing for a perfect golden top.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients without spills.
• Spoon or spatula: Essential for blending ingredients thoroughly and spreading them evenly in the baking dish.

Ingredients

To create Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Base

• 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

For the Stuffing Topping

• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter.

Step 3: Mix the Chicken Base

In a large bowl:
1. Combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth.
2. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
1. Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions but use slightly less water to avoid sogginess.
2. Spoon the stuffing over the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Add Butter and Bake

Drizzle melted butter across the top for a golden finish.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbling.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and improves texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Whether you want a simple family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal that invites everyone to dig in together.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant touch, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This not only looks great but also makes serving easier.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top right before serving to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Topped with Cheese

• Consider adding shredded cheese on top of the stuffing just before baking for a gooey, cheesy finish that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Perfecting Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, stir gently to keep the chicken tender and avoid mushiness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This lets the flavors meld and improves texture.
• Experiment with Stuffing Types: Try different stuffing mixes like cornbread or herb-flavored for unique twists on this classic dish.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Pairing side dishes with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Green Beans
   A simple yet nutritious side that adds crunch and freshness to balance the creamy casserole.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a hearty addition.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.
4. Cranberry Sauce
   The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the rich flavors beautifully, making it an excellent choice.
5. Garden Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet carrots drizzled with honey add a lovely sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
7. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn adds color and sweetness, perfect for summer gatherings.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness provides a delicious contrast to savory flavors in the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Overcooking the casserole: If you bake it too long, the stuffing can become dry. Keep an eye on the casserole and remove it when the top is golden.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or cream can lead to a soggy casserole. Stick to the specified amounts for optimal texture.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the casserole right out of the oven can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
• Not greasing the dish: Failing to grease your baking dish can result in sticking and tearing when serving. Always use cooking spray or butter for easy removal.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Depending on your chicken and broth, you might need more salt or pepper. Taste the mixture before baking and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, then heat while stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

What type of stuffing mix should I use?

You can choose between traditional or cornbread stuffing mixes based on your preference!

How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements this creamy casserole.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s versatile enough for any occasion! Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this delightful dish a try—your family will love it!