Name: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Cozy Family Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended); 1 box stuffing mix (cornbread suggested); 1 can cream of chicken soup (low-sodium if desired); 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for healthier option); 1 cup broth (low-sodium recommended); 4 tablespoons butter (melted, optional for crispy finish); fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or thyme); cheese (e.g., shredded cheddar)

Every time I pull Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole out of the oven, the warm, savory aroma takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen—where comfort food felt like a warm hug. This dish is not only a family favorite but also a quick and easy solution for those hectic weeknight dinners or cozy holiday gatherings. With juicy chicken, seasoned stuffing, and a creamy base, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Plus, the best part? You can customize it for dietary preferences, whether opting for gluten-free stuffing or a low-sodium broth. How will you make this classic comfort food your own?

Why is This Casserole a Must-Try?

Comforting Familiarity: Inspired by traditional Southern recipes, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate.
Customizable Options: Easily adapt it to fit any dietary needs with gluten-free options or low-sodium broth.
Effortless Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce combine to create a dish that everyone will love.
Versatile Leftovers: Transform leftovers into a delightful turkey casserole, making the most out of this comforting meal.
If you’re looking for other delicious comfort food ideas, you might enjoy Buffalo Chicken Mac or Chicken Bacon Casserole to expand your recipe repertoire!

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Cooked Chicken – Provides the main protein; using rotisserie makes prep a breeze.
Stuffing Mix – Acts as the flavorful base; opt for cornbread stuffing for a hint of sweetness.
Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess and depth; choose low-sodium varieties if desired.
Sour Cream – Contributes richness; consider Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Broth – Enhances flavor; adjust the amount based on how much stuffing absorbs. Use low-sodium for a lighter option.
Butter – Drizzled on top for a crispy finish; skip this for a lighter version.

Optional Toppings

Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley or thyme) – Sprinkle on top for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
Cheese (e.g., shredded cheddar) – Melted on top adds a cheesy twist that everyone will love.

With these ingredients lined up, you’re just moments away from making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, a heartwarming dish packed with flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Prep Creamy Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and broth. Stir until smooth and well-blended, creating a rich, creamy base for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This mixture will add delicious depth and moisture to the casserole, ensuring each bite is comforting and satisfying.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients
Spread the creamy mixture evenly across the bottom of a greased baking dish, approximately 9×13 inches. Next, take your cooked chicken—preferably rotisserie for added ease—and layer it evenly over the creamy base. You want to ensure the chicken is nicely distributed so every serving of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is loaded with flavor.

Step 3: Add Stuffing
Generously sprinkle the dry stuffing mix over the chicken, gently pressing it down to help it adhere to the creamy filling below. This ensures a delightful texture and flavor in every mouthful. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle melted butter on top of the stuffing; this will help create a crisp, golden crust once baked.

Step 4: Bake
Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling and the top exhibits a beautiful golden color. This baking step melds all the flavors together and brings a comforting warmth that will fill your home.

Step 5: Check Doneness
To ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) if you’re using raw chicken. The casserole should have bubbly edges and a delightful golden crust when you take it out of the oven; let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving.

Make Ahead Options

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance—just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For even longer storage, consider freezing it for up to two months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. To maintain that delicious quality, bake right from the fridge (you may need to add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time). When the time comes to serve, just pop it in a preheated oven, and enjoy the comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

To create a delightful, well-rounded meal, consider these flavorful and complementary side dishes that will enhance your dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory casserole, making every bite indulgent.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic offer a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy casserole. Their light crunch is a delightful textural balance.
Crisp Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing provides a refreshing and light accompaniment that’s simply irresistible.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, glossy honey-glazed carrots bring a touch of natural sweetness that complements the savory notes beautifully.
Baked Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread can mop up the creamy sauce, complementing the casserole with its slightly sweet flavor.
Applesauce: A delightful side, applesauce brings a sweet and tangy note that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the casserole.
Warm Apple Cider: A cozy beverage like warm apple cider enhances the comfort food experience and pairs beautifully with the dish.
Lemonade: For a refreshing twist, serve a glass of homemade lemonade, adding bright acidity that balances the flavors of the casserole.

With these delicious pairings, you’ll create a comforting meal that wraps your family in warmth and nostalgia!

How to Store and Freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake!

Expert Tips for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Avoid Soggy Stuffing: Minimize liquid in your creamy base and bake uncovered to keep stuffing crispy.

• Perfect Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result while saving prep time.

• Customization Ideas: Feel free to swap traditional stuffing for cornbread mix or use gluten-free options to fit your dietary needs.

• Crispy Topping: Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing before baking to create a delicious, golden-brown crust.

• Check Temperature: Always ensure internal chicken reaches 165°F for safety, especially if you chose to use raw chicken.

Each of these expert tips will elevate your experience with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, ensuring a delicious comfort food triumph!

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Variations

Let your creativity shine as you make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole uniquely yours!

Cornbread Stuffing: Swap traditional stuffing mix with cornbread stuffing for added sweetness and Southern flair. This change brings a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing or homemade bread crumbs to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal without worry.
Healthier Base: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, maintaining creaminess with a healthier touch. This tweak adds protein while keeping the flavors rich and satisfying.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the creamy base for an aromatic lift. These herbs enhance flavor and provide a refreshing twist that complements the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese atop the prepared casserole before baking for an ooey-gooey, cheesy layer that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. This spicy addition elevates the comfort food experience to a new level of excitement!
Leftover Makeover: Transform any leftovers into a turkey casserole after the holidays by swapping chicken for turkey and adding a splash of cranberry sauce for a festive flair.

If you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes, you might also want to explore Chicken Avocado Melt or Garlic Roasted Chicken.

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, using cooked rotisserie chicken is recommended for its ease and flavor. It helps avoid any risk of soggy stuffing that can occur with raw chicken. Just pull apart the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.

How should I store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Can I freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
Very! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How can I get my stuffing layer to be crispy?
To achieve that wonderful crispy topping, drizzle melted butter over the stuffing before baking. Baking uncovered also helps to reduce moisture, ensuring that the stuffing bakes nicely and becomes golden. If you’re worried about it drying out, you can cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time and then remove it to finish baking.

What if I have dietary restrictions, can I make substitutions?
Of course! For gluten-free options, simply swap the regular stuffing mix for a gluten-free variety. You can also use low-sodium broth to accommodate dietary needs. As a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing creaminess.

How long does it take to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply place the thawed casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain its flavor and creamy texture—perfect for experiencing that comforting taste all over again.