If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and downright delicious, you’ve got to try Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe. This dish is a beautiful harmony of tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, and flavorful stuffing baked to golden perfection. Each bite brings a cozy feeling, making it perfect for a family dinner or easy weeknight meal that everyone will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe transforms everyday pantry staples into a soul-satisfying masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each component plays a vital role in building its incredible flavor, texture, and color. From the savory chicken and soups to the buttery stuffing, every ingredient contributes to the dish’s comforting appeal.
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Using rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts makes prep quick and adds juicy, tender bites.
- 1 (6 oz) box chicken-flavored stuffing mix: This provides that essential crispy, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and a rich, savory depth to the stuffing.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Essential for moistening the stuffing and adding luscious richness.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: A creamy binder that infuses the casserole with comforting flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup: Adds subtle earthiness and balances the creaminess perfectly.
- ½ cup sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess that keeps the casserole deliciously moist.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed: Brings bursts of color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
- ½ tsp black pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory kick that warmth the whole dish.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh finish and pretty pop of green when serving.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the casserole from sticking, setting the stage for perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix, melted butter, and chicken broth. Stir until the stuffing is well moistened, then let it soak for 5 minutes. This soaking process is crucial as it allows the stuffing to absorb all those rich flavors and become fluffy when baked.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream until smooth. Then gently fold in the shredded chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, black pepper, and garlic powder. This creamy mixture forms the heart of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe, offering layers of comforting taste in every forkful.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, fluff the soaked stuffing with a fork to keep it light and airy, then spread it evenly over the top. This layering is key for creating the perfect balance between the creamy filling and crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the stuffing turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges bubble enticingly. This final bake melds all the flavors together and ensures the topping is irresistibly crisp.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. Then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired. This simple garnish not only adds a fresh color contrast but brightens the flavors just before serving. Enjoy the warm, satisfying goodness of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe with your loved ones.
How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant burst of color and a hint of fresh herbaceousness that balances the rich, creamy casserole. For an extra touch, a dusting of paprika or a few crispy fried onions on top can add a lovely visual appeal and hint of crunch.
Side Dishes
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. These lighter, fresh vegetables cut through the richness while adding variety in texture and flavor to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for charming single portions, perfect for dinner parties or meal prep. You can also top each serving with a dollop of cranberry sauce for a festive flair, making this dish holiday-worthy while still comfortingly homey.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty, if not better!
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes lets the top crisp back up, reviving that wonderful golden texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully cook and shred the chicken before using it in the casserole. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is simply a great time-saver.
Can I substitute the cream soups with homemade versions?
Yes, making your own cream of chicken and celery soups from scratch will add a fresh and wholesome twist, though the canned versions offer convenience and a classic flavor that many love.
Is there a vegetarian version of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe?
You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or use a plant-based chicken substitute, and swap chicken broth and soups for vegetarian alternatives to make it meat-free.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add extras like chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans to boost nutrition and color. Just be mindful of moisture content so the casserole stays creamy, not soggy.
What’s the best way to reheat individual servings?
Reheating in the microwave works well for single servings. Heat on medium power in short intervals to warm evenly without drying out the casserole.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that warms your soul and brings people together around the table. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a comforting classic you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become one of your most cherished family favorites. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the love and comfort this recipe has to offer!
Print
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, and flavorful stuffing baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering rich textures and a delicious blend of savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 1 rotisserie chicken or 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cooked)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
Stuffing
- 1 (6 oz) box chicken-flavored stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Base Mixture
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken-flavored stuffing mix, melted unsalted butter, and chicken broth. Stir well until the stuffing is fully moistened and let it soak for 5 minutes to absorb the liquids.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Fold in the shredded chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Fluff the soaked stuffing with a fork to separate the crumbs and spread it evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the stuffing topping is golden brown and the casserole bubbles around the edges, indicating thorough heating.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables with fresh or canned as preferred.
- If you like a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes watching carefully.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and butter substitutes.
