Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Craving a hearty, soul-soothing dinner that’s simple to throw together yet tastes like a warm hug in casserole form? Then you’ve got to try Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. This dish has all the cozy vibes of a Sunday supper with none of the hassle. It’s one of those family recipes that gets passed around because it just works. Creamy, savory, and layered with love—this one’s a keeper.

Whether you’re feeding a busy family, hosting friends, or looking to meal prep something delicious, this casserole hits the mark. It’s no wonder it has become a weeknight go-to for so many home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole isn’t just tasty—it’s practical. Here’s why it stands out:

• Minimal Prep: Throw it together in less than 15 minutes.
• One Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, less cleanup.
• Crowd Favorite: Even picky eaters love it.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

It’s the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, savory, and satisfying. And guess what? You don’t need to be a pro chef to make it happen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen mixed veggies
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To keep things easy and efficient, here’s what you’ll need:

• 9×13” baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil (optional)

How to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 baking dish.

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, both soups, sour cream, milk, chopped onion, and celery. If you’re using any extras (like frozen veggies or cheese), add those too. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir.

Prepare the Stuffing

In a separate bowl, prepare your stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Substitute melted butter for any margarine if listed—trust us, the flavor boost is worth it.

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Assemble

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into your baking dish. Then, spoon the stuffing mix over the top and gently press it down so it covers the surface.

Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If the stuffing starts to get too dark, cover loosely with foil in the last 10 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

Want to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole even easier and more flavorful? Check out these tried-and-true tips and tricks:

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Save yourself time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s juicy, tender, and already seasoned—perfect for tossing right into the mix.

Sauté the Veggies for Extra Flavor

If you have an extra few minutes, lightly sauté the chopped celery and onion before adding them to the filling. It brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

Add Seasoning to the Soups

Cream soups can sometimes be a little bland. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or a pinch of poultry seasoning to amp up the flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• No Cream of Mushroom? Use two cans of cream of chicken soup instead.
• Gluten-Free? Swap the stuffing for a gluten-free version and double-check your soups.
• Vegetarian? Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for a protein-packed twist.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the filling before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a meal in itself, but here are some tasty sides and sips to round things out:

• Sides: Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad.
• Drinks: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a warm apple cider pairs beautifully.
• Extras: Serve with cranberry sauce on the side for a Thanksgiving-style vibe.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish stores like a dream and reheats without a hitch.

• Store: Cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Microwaving individual portions also works fine—just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Planning ahead? You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed—adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time if it’s cold from the fridge.

FAQs about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Can I make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before popping it in the oven.

What’s the best stuffing mix to use?

Classic seasoned stuffing mix (like Stove Top) works beautifully. Cornbread stuffing is also a great variation for a Southern twist.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Once assembled and cooled (if baked), wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight and bake until warmed through.

How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium soups and broth if you’re sensitive to salt. You can also make your own homemade soup base for better control over seasoning.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Try pairing it with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp salad. For drinks, white wine or iced tea complements it well.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug. It’s nostalgic, budget-friendly, ridiculously easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a comforting potluck classic, this recipe never disappoints.

With just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have—you can create something rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Plus, the make-ahead, freezer-friendly nature of this casserole makes it a go-to for meal prepping or comforting someone in need.

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