Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole Guide

There’s something magical about a hearty, cheesy, comforting dish straight from the oven. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is exactly that – a cozy, family-style meal packed with flavor, ease, and pure satisfaction. Whether you’re serving guests or just craving a home-cooked classic, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another chicken casserole – it’s Dolly’s take on comfort food. Think savory, moist stuffing, juicy shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and a creamy base that ties everything together. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

Quick to make with minimal prep.

Perfectly balanced textures – soft, creamy, and crunchy in each bite.

A complete meal in one pan.

Crowd-pleaser for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Flexible enough for substitutions or add-ins.

Ingredients Notes

Key Ingredients

Chicken – Use cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs. Rotisserie chicken works great too.

Stuffing mix – Any store-bought mix (like Stove Top) will do. Choose your favorite flavor – herb, chicken, or cornbread.
Cream of chicken soup – Brings a smooth, creamy base that ties everything together beautifully.

Sour cream – For tang and extra creaminess.

Butter – Helps bring richness to the stuffing.

Cheese – Optional, but we love a good sharp cheddar topping.

Broth – Chicken broth keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.

Optional Add-ins

Chopped celery & onions – Add a satisfying crunch and boost of savory flavor in every bite.

Frozen peas or carrots – Add color and nutrients.

Steak seasoning – For a surprising umami twist.

How to Make This Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the stuffing according to the box instructions, substituting half of the water with chicken broth for flavor.

Mix the filling – Combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and optional vegetables in a large bowl.

Layer it up – In a greased casserole dish, spread the chicken mixture evenly.

Top with stuffing – Add the prepared stuffing mix on top and gently press down.

Sprinkle cheese (if using) over the top.

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Don’t overmix the stuffing – you want it fluffy, not soggy.

Use day-old stuffing mix for better absorption.

A light broil at the end can crisp up the top beautifully.

Expert Cooking Tips

Want to turn your casserole from good to unforgettable? These expert tips will make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole your signature dish.

Use Leftover Turkey Like a Pro
After Thanksgiving or any holiday feast, leftover turkey often sits in the fridge begging for inspiration. This casserole is the perfect place to put it to work. Just shred it finely, mix it in place of the chicken, and enjoy a cozy spin on classic holiday flavors.

Craving Richer Flavor? Here’s the Secret:
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the chicken mixture before layering. This little addition makes the filling silkier and adds a decadent touch. Want more depth? A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika can take the flavor from simple to spectacular.

Layer Like a Boss
When assembling your casserole, don’t just dump and spread—think like a chef. Press the stuffing gently to create an even top, but don’t pack it too tightly. This allows steam to circulate and gives you that golden, slightly crisp top.

Resting = Restaurant-Quality Results
We know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking helps everything firm up. It slices cleaner, serves neater, and keeps the layers intact.

Top Tip for Cheese Lovers
Add cheese not just on top, but inside the chicken mixture too. Cheddar, mozzarella, even pepper jack melts into gooey goodness. Double the cheese, double the love!

Storage Tips

Refrigeration

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them like this:

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.

Transfer it to an airtight container or wrap the dish tightly with foil.

It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or pop the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (usually 15–20 minutes).

Freezing

Planning ahead or want to stash a batch for busy nights?

Before Baking: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.

After Baking: Let it cool, wrap well, and freeze individual servings or the whole pan.

To Use: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Pro Tip: Label with the date and cooking instructions. Your future self will thank you!

Variations and Substitutions

Love the base recipe but want to make it your own? Try these tasty twists:

Vegetarian Version

No meat? No problem!

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or even a can of white beans.

Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a rich vegetarian-friendly base.

Add diced carrots, spinach, or zucchini for extra bulk and nutrition.

Low-Carb Swap

Watching your carbs but still want all the cozy flavor?

Ditch the stuffing and substitute with cauliflower rice mixed with shredded cheese, eggs, and a bit of almond flour for structure.

Add chopped broccoli or spinach to amp up the fiber and volume.

It’s keto-friendly and super satisfying.

Cheese Lovers’ Twist

Because cheese makes everything better:

Stir shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda right into the chicken mixture.

Add a sprinkle of parmesan to the top before baking for that golden, crispy finish.

Feeling bold? Toss in a pinch of blue cheese for a tangy surprise.

What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken Stuffing Casserole

This casserole is a star on its own, but the right side dishes and drinks can turn it into a full-blown feast.

Best Side Dishes

Balance the richness of the casserole with fresh, vibrant sides:

Green Beans Almondine – Adds crunch and freshness.

Garden Salad with Vinaigrette – Light and zesty to cleanse the palate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Earthy and caramelized, they pair beautifully.

Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet, soft, and kid-approved.

Drinks and Dessert Pairings
Tie the whole meal together:

Drinks:

A cold apple cider (sparkling or still) adds a sweet contrast.

Desserts:

Apple pie for a classic finish.

Cheesecake if you’re feeling indulgent.

Or go simple with vanilla ice cream – especially great if the casserole was spicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even easy recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here’s what to steer clear of:

Using Raw Chicken
Always use pre-cooked chicken. Raw chicken won’t cook through evenly in a casserole and can be a food safety hazard.

Skipping the Resting Time
Patience is key. Let the casserole sit before slicing so it doesn’t fall apart or become watery.

Too Much Liquid
Overloading on broth or sour cream can lead to a soggy mess. Follow the measurements closely, and if you’re adding extra veggies, sauté them first to remove moisture.

Overbaking
Keep an eye on it—overbaking dries out the chicken and hardens the stuffing. You want a golden top, not a brick!

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Final Thoughts

There you have it—Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in all its savory glory. It’s comforting, convenient, and customizable to your heart’s desire. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals ahead, or simply craving something warm and cheesy, this casserole hits the spot every time. From the crisp stuffing top to the creamy, hearty chicken center, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your meal rotation

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Just drain and shred it well. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Q2: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Put it together the night before, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just bake and enjoy.

Q3: What stuffing mix works best?
We love Stove Top Chicken or Herb stuffing mix, but any brand or homemade version will work beautifully.

Q4: How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a little heat.

Q5: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Sure can! Layer everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until hot and bubbly. Easy peasy!

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