You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge at 5:30 PM, praying for dinner inspiration? That’s exactly how Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole became my weeknight hero. This cozy, bubbling dish saved me more times than I can count – it’s the kind of recipe you can throw together with pantry staples while helping with homework. My neighbor Dolly shared this gem years ago when she brought it over after my second baby was born, and let me tell you, that first bite of creamy chicken and crispy stuffing topping? Pure comfort. Now it’s my go-to when I need something hearty that practically makes itself.
Why You’ll Love Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Oh, where do I even start? This casserole is like a warm hug on a busy night. First off, it comes together in minutes—I’m talking faster than you can say “takeout.” The combo of creamy chicken and that crispy stuffing topping? Absolute magic. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples you probably already have. Kids go nuts for it (mine fight over the crunchy bits), and leftovers taste even better the next day. Trust me, once you try Dolly’s recipe, it’ll become your weeknight lifeline too.
Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Here’s the beautiful part – you likely have most of this in your kitchen already! The magic happens with just a handful of simple ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works wonders here)
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (I always grab the classic herb flavor)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – the creamy backbone of the dish
- 1/2 cup sour cream for that irresistible tang
- 1/2 cup chicken broth to keep everything moist
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (no need to thaw – they’ll cook perfectly in the oven)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – our flavor boosters
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or more if you’re feeling bold!)
See? Nothing fancy – just good, honest ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Now let’s get cooking!
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Okay, let’s get this cozy masterpiece into the oven! The secret to Dolly’s magic is in the layers – creamy chicken goodness on the bottom, crispy golden stuffing on top. Here’s exactly how we do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
First things first – crank that oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab your favorite mixing bowl (I use my grandma’s old yellow Pyrex) and whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth. Now’s when we add our flavor boosters – sprinkle in that garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give it another good stir – you’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks like creamy, dreamy gravy.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Time to bring in the stars of the show! Dump your shredded chicken right into that luscious sauce mixture. Don’t be shy – really fold it in so every strand gets coated. Then toss in those frozen veggies (yes, still frozen – they’ll thaw as they bake). I like to use a rubber spatula here to make sure everything gets evenly distributed. You want every bite to have a little chicken, a little veggie, and lots of that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish – I give mine a quick spray with cooking oil first. Now for the pièce de résistance: sprinkle that dry stuffing mix evenly over the top. No stirring! We want that crispy topping layer. Pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the stuffing is golden brown and the edges are bubbling like crazy. Pro tip: If the top isn’t crispy enough for your liking, broil for the last 2 minutes (but watch it like a hawk!). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving – I know it’s hard to wait, but this helps the sauce thicken up perfectly.
Tips for the Best Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
After making this casserole more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “oh my goodness, can I have the recipe?” good. First – rotisserie chicken is your best friend here. It adds incredible flavor with zero effort. Want to make it extra special? Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the stuffing layer before baking – it creates this golden, cheesy crust that’ll have everyone fighting for seconds. And whatever you do, don’t overbake it! Pull it out when the edges are bubbly and the top is just crisp – that’s when the magic happens.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of Dolly’s recipe? It’s practically begging to be customized! Out of cream of chicken soup? No sweat – cream of mushroom or celery work just as well. Fresh veggies instead of frozen? Absolutely – just chop them small so they cook through. For my gluten-free friends, use your favorite GF stuffing mix and cream soup. And if you’re feeling fancy, toss in some crispy bacon bits or swap the chicken for turkey after Thanksgiving. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole is practically a meal in itself, but I love rounding it out with simple sides. A crisp green salad cuts through the richness perfectly – my kids actually eat their veggies when served alongside this! Warm dinner rolls are fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce. For something lighter, steamed broccoli or green beans add freshness without stealing the spotlight from our star dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Here’s the best part – this casserole tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers covered in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, I always go for the oven (350°F for about 15 minutes) to keep that stuffing crispy. In a pinch, the microwave works too – just zap it in 30-second bursts and give it a stir between each. Pro tip: Sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the top before reheating to keep it from drying out. Trust me, you’ll be fighting over those last bites!
Nutritional Information for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what’s in this comforting dish. Keep in mind these numbers can change based on your specific ingredients – like using low-sodium soup or adding extra cheese (no judgment here!). Per serving, you’re looking at about 320 calories, 12g fat, and a solid 20g protein to keep you full. Not bad for something that tastes this indulgent! The stuffing mix does bring some carbs (around 30g per serving), but hey – that’s what makes the crispy topping so irresistible. As Dolly always said, “Everything in moderation – including moderation!” Keep track of your daily nutritional intake for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just chop them small – about pea-sized – so they cook through in the oven. I love using fresh carrots, peas, and green beans when they’re in season. The texture will be slightly firmer than frozen, but just as delicious.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Easy peasy! Swap the regular stuffing mix for your favorite gluten-free cornbread version (I’ve had great results with gluten-free cornbread stuffing). Use a GF cream soup or make your own with GF flour. Everything else stays the same!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble everything except the stuffing topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, sprinkle on the dry stuffing mix and add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven’s your best friend here – 350°F for about 15 minutes keeps that topping crispy. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too – just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Oh honey, this recipe loves turkey! It’s fantastic with leftover holiday turkey – just shred it up the same way. The flavors blend beautifully with the stuffing mix. Thanksgiving in a casserole dish? Yes please!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: 5-Star Comfort in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make chicken casserole with savory stuffing and creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Add shredded chicken and mixed vegetables to the sauce mixture.
- Spread the chicken mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry stuffing mix evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the stuffing is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup if preferred.
- Add shredded cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American