Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, look no further than Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole! This recipe has been a treasured favorite in our family for years. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering. The creamy goodness combined with tender chicken and savory stuffing is simply irresistible.

What makes this casserole even more special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love digging into this creamy, cheesy delight.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or cheeses to make it your own!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Leftovers: If there are any leftovers, they reheat wonderfully for lunch the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious casserole. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

For the Casserole

• 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 Topping

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

Optional Add-Ins

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

Variations

One of the best things about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or cooked quinoa instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add some crunch: Throw in some chopped celery or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden on top.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Base

In a large bowl, mix together your shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes our casserole so comforting!

Step 3: Spread the Chicken Mixture

Evenly spread the chicken mixture in your prepared baking dish. It’s important for every bite to be filled with that rich flavor we’ve created!

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Layer

In another bowl, combine your stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Stir well until everything is moistened. Then spread this mixture evenly over the chicken layer. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on top now for that melty goodness.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Bake your casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling away. The aroma filling your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely so each serving holds its shape.

Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Creating the perfect casserole is all about a few key techniques that elevate your dish from good to great!

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience: Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves you time and adds incredible flavor. It’s also a great way to use leftovers from another meal.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set up, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors as they meld together.
• Customize with your favorites: Feel free to add in ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for a personal touch. This flexibility allows you to cater the dish to your family’s taste preferences.
• Adjust seasoning to suit your palate: Everyone has different taste preferences, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt, pepper, or herbs according to what your family loves. This ensures that every bite is just right!
• Double the recipe for larger gatherings: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, consider doubling the ingredients. Just use a bigger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting it well can make mealtime even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or chives: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the creamy dish.
• Crispy fried onions: Sprinkling these on top right before serving offers a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft casserole.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their crisp texture and vibrant color make them a nutritious side that complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
• Simple garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and balances out hearty meals.
• Roasted carrots: Caramelizing carrots brings out their natural sweetness, providing a lovely contrast to this savory dish.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer an additional comforting element, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food without the fuss on busy nights. You can make it in advance and store it for later, ensuring a hearty meal is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Make sure the casserole is completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Remove the foil in the last 5-10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen chicken in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the casserole mixture.

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

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like peas or carrots, or by mixing different types of cheese into the stuffing layer. Feel free to get creative!

Can I use a different type of cream soup in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any cream soup you prefer, such as cream of celery or even a homemade version for a healthier twist.

How long does Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this casserole will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole! This dish has a way of bringing everyone together around the table with its delightful flavors and comforting textures. Enjoy creating this family favorite and make wonderful memories while sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!