Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This creamy dish is perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. With tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich soups, it’s a delightful combination that is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. You can customize it with cheese and peas for added richness and nutrition, making this casserole a family favorite you will want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of creamy soups and savory stuffing makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
• Feeding a Crowd: Serves 6-8 people easily, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable Toppings: Add cheese or veggies like peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for holding the casserole together while it bakes, ensuring an even cook.
• Mixing bowls: Important for combining ingredients without mess; larger bowls prevent spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee accurate ingredient quantities for the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For this delightful Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, you will need the following:

For the Chicken Base

• 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)

For the Stuffing Layer

• 1 (6-ounce) box of stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Optional Enhancements

• 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:
1. Combine shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Stuffing Layer

In another bowl:
1. Combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth.
2. Stir well until mixed thoroughly.
3. 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 or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely for serving!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with creamy Caesar dressing adds a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the soft casserole.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter can soak up the delicious flavors from the casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Enhance with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides both color and nutrition, enhancing the meal’s health factor.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a delightful contrast to the savory casserole.

How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

To ensure that your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh or high-quality rotisserie chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a more personalized touch.
• Layer Wisely: Ensure an even distribution of chicken and stuffing layers for consistent cooking throughout the casserole.
• Add Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking, allowing it to melt into the dish.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add diced vegetables or herbs to personalize the flavor profile further.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Complement your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with these delicious side dishes that balance its richness.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add crunch while keeping things light.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the hearty meal and brings sweetness to each bite.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
5. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad offers a creamy counterpart that complements the flavors beautifully.
6. Crispy Potatoes: Oven-roasted crispy potatoes add another layer of texture to your dinner plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Not using cooked chicken: Always use cooked and shredded chicken for the best texture. Raw chicken will not cook properly in the casserole.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mix just until combined to keep the casserole light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense dish.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference for a flavorful outcome.
• Not greasing the baking dish: Failing to grease your baking dish can lead to sticking and messy serving. Use butter or cooking spray generously.
• Skipping resting time: Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps it set and makes for easier serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
• It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer for best quality.

Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth and warm gently, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

You can substitute with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked before adding.

How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or herbs like rosemary or parsley for added depth of flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything in advance, cover it, and refrigerate overnight before baking when ready.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The top should be golden brown, and bubbling around the edges when fully baked.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that caters to busy nights as well as festive gatherings. Its versatility allows for various customizations such as adding cheese or vegetables based on your family’s preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!