“Just sprinkle with love and a little magic.” I overheard my friend whispering to her daughter as they prepared dinner together, and it couldn’t be more fitting for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug, a taste of comfort food that warms the soul. Rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights, potluck gatherings, or those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty. Best of all, this versatile casserole is perfect for anyone’s palate—whether you’re looking for gluten-free, low-sodium, or just a make-ahead masterpiece to ease your cooking burden. Ready to dive into a festive blend of flavors that feels like home? Let’s whip up this heartwarming classic together!
Why is this casserole a must-try?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in no time, even on the busiest of weeknights.
Customizable: Tailor it to your tastes—swap the stuffing for cornbread or make it gluten-free to suit everyone’s needs!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance; just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making dinner prep a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it’s a dish everyone loves, bringing smiles to your dinner table.
Comforting Flavor: This casserole captures the essence of home cooking, offering cozy bites that satisfy your cravings for warmth and nostalgia—much like a bowl of Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls, but in a creamy casserole form!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- Chicken – Use pre-cooked shredded chicken for easy preparation and superior texture.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – This adds creaminess and flavor; swap for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Sour Cream – Enhances the richness; replace with Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter option.
- Chicken Broth – Provides moisture; consider low-sodium for a healthier choice.
For the Stuffing Layer
- Stuffing Mix – The heart of this dish; try cornbread stuffing for a unique twist.
- Butter – Helps brown the top; use a light drizzle of olive oil for reduced calories.
Optional Add-Ins
- Vegetables – Add steamed broccoli or canned mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Turkey – Substitute chicken with turkey for a delicious holiday-inspired version of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until well blended and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This luscious base will provide richness to Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) as you prepare the next steps.
Step 2: Layer the Filling
Once your creamy base is ready, generously spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish, using a spatula to ensure an even layer. This layer should be thick and hearty, as it forms the foundation of the dish. Take a moment to enjoy the delightful aroma that’s already filling your kitchen with warmth!
Step 3: Add Stuffing Layer
Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions, adding broth and melted butter if desired. Once combined, carefully layer the stuffing on top of the creamy chicken mixture. Press it down slightly to encourage a perfect meld of flavors as it bakes, creating that golden crunchy topping alongside the rich filling.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the assembled casserole dish to your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s ready when the stuffing is golden brown and the edges of the creamy filling are bubbling. The delightful fragrance is truly irresistible at this point, beckoning everyone to gather around the table!
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After the baking time, check if Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is fully cooked. The filling should be steaming, and the top should have a lovely crunchy texture. If needed, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until perfect. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, as it will be delightfully hot and comforting!
What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Cozy up your dinner with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this comforting dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft, buttery potatoes add a velvety texture complementing the casserole’s richness. This classic pairing always pleases the palate.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, these beans offer a fresh crunch that balances the creamy casserole perfectly. A squeeze of lemon elevates their flavor.
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Garden Salad: A light, colorful salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing brings refreshing contrast, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Earthy and lightly caramelized brussels sprouts provide a wonderful depth of flavor, making for a delightful, earthy pairing.
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Garlic Bread: Slices of warm, buttery garlic bread add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the casserole’s creamy sauce.
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Fruit Salad: A bright, juicy fruit salad introduces a sweet and refreshing element, cleansing the palate and adding a touch of brightness to each bite.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of buttery Chardonnay complements the savory notes of the casserole, enhancing the comforting experience of your meal.
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Pumpkin Pie: As a sweet ending, a slice of creamy pumpkin pie brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, echoing the season of comfort food and shared moments.
Expert Tips for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
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Use Cooked Chicken: Always opt for pre-cooked shredded chicken to ensure a tender casserole; raw chicken can lead to a soggy texture.
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Don’t Cover While Baking: Leaving your casserole uncovered allows the stuffing to achieve that golden, crunchy top that everyone loves.
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Mix it Up: Feel free to incorporate additional veggies—like broccoli or carrots—into the creamy base for a nutrition boost and extra flavor.
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Make Ahead: Assemble your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole up to 24 hours in advance; refrigerate and bake when you’re ready for a quick dinner solution.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole while baking; if the stuffing browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
How to Store and Freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Room Temperature: Best served warm and fresh, avoid leaving the casserole out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for a homemade comfort food experience whenever you crave it.
Reheating: When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes until heated through, ensuring the delicious flavors of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole shine again!
Make Ahead Options
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is an absolute lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can easily assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors without the last-minute rush. To ensure freshness, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. If you prefer longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden. This makes meal prep simple and stress-free while still delivering that delicious comfort food experience!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole your own with these delightful twists!
- Cornbread Stuffing: Swap traditional herb stuffing for cornbread stuffing to infuse a subtly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and check that your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this hearty dish.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and soups to create a heartwarming yet healthier version of this casserole that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli or fresh spinach to the creamy mixture for a vibrant, nutritious touch that adds both taste and texture.
- Turkey Twist: Substitute cooked turkey for chicken for a festive flair, transforming this into a delightful dish perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Dairy-Free: For a creamy and satisfying result without the dairy, replace sour cream and cream soup with non-dairy versions, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt.
- Extra Spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or your favorite seasoning blend to turn up the heat and add depth to this comforting casserole.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement this casserole’s flavors, bringing a fragrant note that elevates the whole dish.
Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or a get-together with friends, don’t forget to pair this dish with something refreshing like a light salad or steamed vegetables. And for a lovely side, you can always whip up some Creamy Green Bean Casserole or Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls to please the crowd!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked shredded chicken is key to achieving the perfect texture for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover cooked chicken. This way, you’ll avoid the risk of soggy stuffing that comes from using raw chicken.
How should I store leftover casserole?
Very! After enjoying your casserole, let it cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven. Covering it with foil during reheating helps retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
You can! For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
What if my stuffing doesn’t brown while baking?
I’ve faced that before, too! If you find that the stuffing isn’t browning, you can loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the filling to cook through. The last 10 minutes of baking, remove the foil to help it achieve that lovely crunchy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can easily be modified for various dietary needs. You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free stuffing mix, and for those watching sodium intake, I recommend opting for low-sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Simply swap your ingredients to customize the dish to fit different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal together!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for Cozy Comfort Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until well blended and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions, then layer it on top of the creamy mixture. Press down slightly.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the stuffing is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Check for doneness; if necessary, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
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