Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or holiday feasts. This creamy, hearty casserole combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich soups, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can customize it with options like cheese and peas for added richness and texture. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or cheeses to suit your family’s tastes.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of soups and sour cream creates a rich and delicious base that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Comforting Flavor: Savory chicken combined with stuffing delivers that home-cooked taste that warms the heart.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on this delightful casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for even cooking and serving your casserole.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient portions for consistent results.
• Whisk or spoon for mixing: Helps achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 1 (6-ounce) box of stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, for added texture and nutrition)

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl:
* Combine shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
* Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Layer

In another bowl:
* Combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth.
* Stir well until mixed.
* Spread it evenly over the chicken layer. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving so it sets nicely. Enjoy!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Accompany with Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to balance the rich casserole.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the casserole.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables such as broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition alongside the dish.

Serve with Cranberry Sauce

• A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce introduces a tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors.

Offer Extra Cheese on Top

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over individual servings for an extra cheesy bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top before serving adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Creating the perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality chicken broth for enhanced flavor.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.

• Layer Properly: Ensure even layers of chicken mixture and stuffing for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.

• Cover While Baking: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during baking to prevent burning while cooking through.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps set the layers and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to introduce more flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Serving side dishes alongside Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the meal.

2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring natural sugars that complement the savory casserole wonderfully.

3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a filling side that pairs perfectly with gravy if desired.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the casserole.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a nutritious alternative that pairs well with chicken flavors.

6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds fun texture and sweetness to your plate.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy option packed with protein.

8. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb choice, cauliflower rice is a flavorful alternative that complements any casserole dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to properly season your chicken and soup mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasonings before baking.

• Overcooking the chicken: Using chicken that is too dry will make your casserole less enjoyable. Opt for tender, cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken.

• Not following the layers: Mixing all ingredients together instead of layering them can affect texture. Ensure you spread the stuffing mixture over the chicken layer for a better result.

• Ignoring cooking times: Baking for too long or not long enough can alter how well the casserole sets. Keep an eye on it, and check for a golden brown top.

• Using the wrong dish size: A baking dish that’s too small may overflow while cooking. Use a 9×13-inch dish for best results.

• Forgetting resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can make it fall apart. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

What makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole so special?

This casserole is a perfect blend of creamy soups, tender chicken, and savory stuffing, making it a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.

Can I customize Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or carrots, or mix in different cheeses for added flavor.

How do I ensure my casserole doesn’t turn out dry?

Make sure to use moist cooked chicken and adequately mix your creamy ingredients. Avoid overbaking as well.

Is there a vegetarian version of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Yes! Substitute chicken with plant-based protein options and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Definitely! Leftover turkey works great in this recipe, giving it extra flavor while reducing waste during holidays.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a delightful comfort food that suits any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your taste. Try this recipe today, and discover why it will quickly become a family favorite!