Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender, shredded chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, looking for a meal to bring to a gathering, or just want something comforting on a chilly evening, this casserole is a winner. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know, from the ingredients and preparation steps to some tasty variations and serving suggestions. So, let’s dive right in!

Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

To start, let’s look at the key ingredients that make this dish a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or feeding a crowd, the ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole are simple, easy to find, and sure to please everyone at the table.

Essential Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3 large breasts)

  • You can use cooked chicken breast from scratch, or a time-saving option like rotisserie chicken. Shredded chicken is the star of this casserole, providing both texture and flavor.

• 1 box of stuffing mix (around 6 oz)

  • Traditional stuffing mix gives the casserole its signature flavor and texture. You can use either cornbread or herb-flavored stuffing depending on your preference.

• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup

  • This brings the creaminess and helps bind the casserole together. It also adds richness to the overall flavor.

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • The broth keeps the casserole moist and enhances the savory taste. You can swap this for vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • A little cheese goes a long way, melting beautifully into the casserole and adding a cheesy, gooey layer on top.

• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder

  • These simple seasonings are essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, but don’t skip them!

Additional Optional Ingredients

• Sour cream: Adds a slight tangy creaminess.

• Vegetables: Carrots, peas, or corn can easily be added to make the dish even heartier.

• Crispy Topping: If you like a crunchy topping, consider adding some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Why These Ingredients Work Together

Each ingredient plays a role in creating the casserole’s rich, comforting texture. The shredded chicken is the protein base, while the stuffing mix provides both flavor and bulk. The cream of chicken soup ensures the casserole remains creamy and moist, and the cheese adds that irresistible gooey, golden finish. The chicken broth brings everything together, keeping the casserole from drying out during baking.

How to Prepare Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This recipe is simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also hearty enough for a special occasion.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using fresh chicken, cook and shred it beforehand. For a quicker method, you can use rotisserie chicken. Simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You’ll need 4 cups of shredded chicken for this recipe, which is about 3 large chicken breasts.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

In a medium-sized bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. You’ll likely need to add some water and melted butter. Set it aside once it’s ready. If you’re adding vegetables or extra seasoning, now’s the time to mix them in.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s smooth and well-combined. This will be the creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Stuffing, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken and prepared stuffing. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir to combine everything thoroughly. If you want to make your casserole extra cheesy, now’s the time to mix in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the chicken and stuffing mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. If you’re adding vegetables like peas or carrots, now is the time to fold them into the casserole before baking.

Step 7: Add Topping (Optional)

For an extra crispy, golden top, you can sprinkle some crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even additional shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.

Variations and Customizations for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Vegetable Additions

One of the easiest ways to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your casserole is by adding vegetables. Some great options include:

• Carrots: Thinly slice or shred carrots for added sweetness and crunch.

• Frozen peas: Add a handful for some color and a pop of freshness.

• Corn: Use frozen or canned corn for a bit of sweetness and texture.

You can stir these vegetables into the casserole mixture before baking or layer them at the bottom of the casserole dish for a more organized appearance.

Cheese Variations

Cheese plays a crucial role in making the casserole creamy and flavorful. However, if you’re looking for different tastes, consider these variations:

• Swiss cheese: For a nuttier flavor.

• Parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty kick when sprinkled on top.

• Monterey Jack: Offers a smooth, creamy melt that works well with the other ingredients.

Seasoning Tweaks

While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are the basics, you can tweak the seasonings to suit your preferences. Try:

• Onion powder: Adds depth and a savory richness.

• Thyme: A classic herb that pairs wonderfully with chicken and stuffing.

• Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and a pop of color.

For a Healthier Version

If you’re looking to make the casserole a little lighter or cater to dietary restrictions, here are some ideas:

• Low-fat soup: Swap out regular cream of chicken soup for a lower-fat version.

• Low-sodium broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the salt content.

• Whole wheat stuffing: If you want a whole-grain option, choose a whole wheat stuffing mix.

Vegetarian Variation

If you’re feeding a vegetarian crowd, you can easily adapt this recipe. Simply swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu, chickpeas, or vegetarian meat substitutes. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the soup you use is vegetarian-friendly.

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one dish that can be served on its own or accompanied by a few sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Serve with a Fresh Salad

Pair the casserole with a green salad for a light contrast to the rich, creamy casserole. A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will work perfectly.

Garlic Bread or Rolls

For extra indulgence, serve the casserole with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread will be great for soaking up any leftover sauce or gravy.

Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving even more comfort, add a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes’ smooth texture pairs beautifully with the casserole’s savory flavors.

Pair with a Drink

If you’re serving this casserole for dinner, a refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or even a light sparkling water will complement the richness of the dish. For an alcohol-free option, sparkling apple cider is a festive and light pairing.

Want a dairy-free option? Simply substitute the traditional soup with this Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken Soup — it’s just as creamy and flavorful without the dairy.

Tips for Making the Best Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

To ensure that your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks to elevate the dish.

Tip 1: Use Freshly Shredded Chicken

While rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, using freshly shredded chicken gives you more control over the flavor. Plus, you can season the chicken to your liking before adding it to the casserole.

• Pro tip: If you’re making the casserole in advance, you can cook the chicken and shred it the day before. This will save time when you’re ready to assemble the casserole.

Tip 2: Don’t Overmix the Ingredients

When combining the shredded chicken, stuffing, and sauce, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense, heavy casserole. Gently fold the ingredients together to keep the casserole light and fluffy.

Tip 3: Adjust the Consistency of the Sauce

If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can increase the amount of chicken broth or add a little extra cream of chicken soup. On the other hand, if you like a drier casserole, you can reduce the amount of sauce slightly.

Tip 4: Let It Rest Before Serving

After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut into neat slices and preventing the filling from being too runny.

Tip 5: Use Fresh Seasonings

Fresh seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or sage can give your casserole an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs have a stronger and more aromatic profile than dried herbs, so consider swapping some of the dried herbs for fresh ones.

If you’d prefer to make your own stuffing from scratch instead of using a boxed mix, check out this helpful homemade stuffing guide from Taste of Home. It walks you through step-by-step instructions to create stuffing with rich flavor and the perfect texture.

Storing and Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole makes great leftovers, so don’t worry if you have extra! Here’s how to store and reheat the casserole to keep it tasting fresh.

How to Store

Once your casserole has cooled down to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.

How to Freeze

If you want to make the casserole ahead of time, you can freeze it before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole in your dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.

To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes).

How to Reheat

To reheat individual servings, place the casserole in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until heated through. For a larger portion, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Common FAQs About Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. It can also be frozen for later, as mentioned in Part 6.

2. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Absolutely! While chicken is the main protein in this dish, you can easily swap it out for turkey, shredded beef, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

3. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk. Just ensure that the consistency of the sauce is thick enough to bind the casserole.

4. How can I make the casserole spicier?

If you like a little heat, you can add some cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced green chilies to the casserole mix. If you want a milder flavor but still want some spice, try adding paprika or crushed red pepper flakes.

5. Can I add more stuffing to the casserole?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of stuffing to suit your preferences. If you like a more stuffing-heavy casserole, feel free to increase the stuffing mix by a cup or two. Just ensure you balance the amount of sauce accordingly to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Print