⭐ Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Introduction

Few dishes feel as warm, nostalgic, and comforting as a classic chicken and stuffing casserole. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of recipe you imagine being served in a cozy country kitchen—simple ingredients, easy preparation, and the kind of flavor that tastes like a hug on a plate. This casserole combines tender cooked chicken, creamy soup, savory herbs, and buttery stuffing to create a satisfying dinner that the whole family will ask for again and again.

What makes this recipe so charming is how effortlessly it brings together homemade comfort with pantry staples. It is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, holidays, church gatherings, or Sunday meals. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the golden, buttery stuffing topping, creating a balance of textures—soft, hearty, and crispy all in one bite.

This long-form recipe will guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, cooking notes, tips, serving ideas, FAQs, and more. Whether you’re new to casseroles or already love Southern-style comfort food, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is about to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

For the Stuffing Topping

• 1 box (6 oz) stovetop stuffing mix
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation :

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and gives a beautiful golden edge.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Use precooked chicken for convenience—rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breasts, or leftover chicken all work beautifully. Shred or cube it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Filling

In the bowl with the chicken, add the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery or mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and optional onion and celery. Stir until well combined.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme. Mix gently to incorporate all the flavors. The filling should be thick, creamy, and well-seasoned.

Step 4: Spread the Chicken Mixture Into the Casserole Dish

Pour the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared 9×13 pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula so it bakes uniformly.

Step 5: Prepare the Stuffing Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the stovetop stuffing mix, 1 ½ cups chicken broth, and melted butter. Stir lightly to moisten the stuffing without overmixing.
Let it sit for 3–4 minutes so the broth absorbs and the stuffing becomes fluffy.

Step 6: Add the Stuffing on Top

Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken layer. Do not press it down too hard—keeping it loose helps the top bake up golden and crisp.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the casserole sets and slices nicely.

Variation

• Cheesy Chicken Stuffing Casserole:
  Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the chicken mixture.
• Vegetable Chicken Casserole:
  Mix in peas, carrots, corn, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Creamy Ranch Chicken Casserole:
  Add 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning for a tangy flavor twist.
• Turkey & Stuffing Casserole:
  Perfect after Thanksgiving—use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
• White Sauce Version:
  Replace the canned soups with homemade cream sauce for a from-scratch upgrade.

COOKING Note :

• Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and saves time.
• If the stuffing browns too quickly, lightly cover the casserole with foil toward the end of baking.
• For a crispy top, broil the last 2 minutes—watch closely!
• The casserole thickens as it cools, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions :

• Serve alongside green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
• Add mashed potatoes for a complete comfort meal.
• Pair with dinner rolls or cornbread.
• Drizzle with a little gravy for richer flavor.
• Serve with cranberry sauce during the holidays for a festive touch.

Tips :

• Make sure the stuffing mixture is moistened but not soggy—this keeps the top fluffy and crisp.
• Add extra chicken broth if desired for a juicier casserole.
• To meal-prep, assemble the casserole early and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
• If your casserole feels too thick, add ¼–½ cup extra broth to the filling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Estimated Per Serving):

Calories: 430
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 980mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time when cooking cold.

2. Can I freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble and freeze uncooked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

3. Can I use homemade stuffing?

Yes—use 3–4 cups prepared stuffing and place it on top before baking.

4. Can I make this without canned soup?

You can create a homemade cream sauce with milk, broth, and a roux. It works beautifully.

5. Why is my casserole too dry?

Add more broth next time. Stuffing can absorb liquid differently depending on the brand.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort—a creamy, savory, old-fashioned dinner that tastes like home with every bite. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and buttery stuffing on top, it delivers everything you want in a hearty country-style casserole. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, warming up a cold evening, or preparing for a potluck, this recipe offers reliable deliciousness with minimal effort. It’s a timeless classic that will quickly find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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