Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole -

A Comforting Family Favorite: Rich, Savory, and Easy to Prepare

Introduction

Looking for a dish that combines simplicity, heartwarming flavors, and comfort in every bite? Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the answer! This crowd-pleasing recipe takes tender, shredded chicken and pairs it with a buttery, flavorful stuffing mixture that’s creamy and savory, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

With just a handful of ingredients, including shredded chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. The addition of sour cream and seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder gives the dish a rich, balanced flavor that everyone will love.

Let’s dive into how you can make this quick and delicious meal!

Ingredients:

4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3 large breasts) 🍗
1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
½ cup sour cream
1 cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking and shredding your chicken. You can either use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts. To cook the chicken, simmer the breasts in water or chicken broth until fully cooked, about 20-25 minutes, and then shred them with two forks. You’ll need 4 cups of shredded chicken for this recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

In a medium-sized bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. This typically involves adding hot water and a little butter to the mix. Once the stuffing is ready, set it aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add the butter at this stage for extra creaminess, though it’s optional.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Layer the bottom of the dish with the shredded chicken. Spread the prepared stuffing mix evenly over the chicken. Then, pour the creamy mixture over the stuffing, ensuring it’s evenly spread.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden brown and slightly crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Variation

Vegetable Addition: Add a can of peas or corn for a little extra veggie goodness. Simply stir them into the creamy mixture before assembling the casserole.
Cheesy Twist: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let it melt and bubble for a delicious, gooey topping.
Herbed Stuffing: Use a herbed stuffing mix for a more aromatic, flavorful base to complement the chicken and creamy sauce.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace sour cream with a dairy-free sour cream and use dairy-free cream of chicken soup for a non-dairy alternative.

COOKING Note:

Shredded chicken is key to this casserole’s texture. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute.
For a crispier top, leave the foil off during the last few minutes of baking, allowing the stuffing to crisp up.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted carrots or green beans complements this hearty dish.
Cranberry Sauce: A small bowl of cranberry sauce on the side brings a nice sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Mashed Potatoes: For a more filling meal, serve the casserole alongside creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips:

If the casserole seems dry after baking, add more chicken broth to the mixture before assembling it. The stuffing should absorb the liquid but still stay moist.
For even fluffier stuffing, make sure to prepare the stuffing mix just before assembling the casserole, as this will prevent it from becoming too soggy.
If you prefer darker meat over chicken breasts, you can also use cooked, shredded chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information:

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking, or bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time.

Can I freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or even a sour cream-based sauce if you prefer.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a versatile, comforting meal that combines hearty ingredients and simple steps for an incredibly satisfying dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or as part of a holiday spread, this casserole promises to deliver the warmth and flavors everyone loves. With its creamy, savory filling and golden stuffing topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time!