Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or holiday feasts. This creamy, hearty casserole combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich soups, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can customize it with options like cheese and peas for added richness and texture. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Mixture
• For the Stuffing Layer
• Optional Ingredients
• How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Layer
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Pair with Fresh Salads
• Complement with Bread
• Add Some Vegetables
• Serve with Extra Toppings
• How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
• Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
• How can I customize Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like cheese or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of chicken, stuffing, and creamy soups offers a filling meal.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and optimal casserole presentation.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all the ingredients without spills.
• Whisk or spoon: These tools help ensure that your mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with another cream soup)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For the Stuffing Layer

• 1 (6-ounce) box of stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Optional Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, for added texture and nutrition)

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Layer

In another bowl:
1. Combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth.
2. Stir well until mixed thoroughly.
3. Spread it evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
4. Optionally sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. 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 a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese and croutons, perfect for adding crunch.

Complement with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter adds flavor and is great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are a classic choice that pairs well with any casserole.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy, colorful side that complements the casserole’s flavors.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a hint of sweetness and texture to your meal.

Serve with Extra Toppings

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

To ensure your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and flavor, opt for rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds depth to your dish.
• Customize Your Soups: Feel free to mix different cream soups based on your taste preferences. Cream of celery or cheddar can add unique flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps it set up nicely for easier serving.
• Experiment with Toppings: Adding shredded cheese on top before baking gives an extra layer of richness and flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt and pepper according to your family’s preference.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporating frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms can enhance both nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Pairing side dishes with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the casserole.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the flavors beautifully.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a delightful contrast in textures.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with savory casseroles; grill or boil it for best results.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries add a fun twist while keeping it light.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Uncooked Chicken: Always start with cooked chicken. Using raw chicken will lead to undercooking and an unappetizing texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to add spices can make your casserole bland. Ensure you use onion powder, garlic powder, and herbs for robust flavor.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the top is golden brown.
• Not Letting It Rest: Serving immediately can result in a soupy mess. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes to let it set properly.
• Ignoring Customization Options: Missing out on adding cheese or vegetables like peas can limit the dish’s taste and texture. Feel free to experiment for a unique twist.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich soups, ideal for family meals.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Simply shred it before mixing with other ingredients.

How can I customize Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

You can add ingredients like shredded cheese or vegetables such as peas for added richness and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is not only a delicious comfort food but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a hearty meal that will surely please your family!