When the craving for a truly satisfying, fuss-free meal hits, Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the answer. This beloved recipe brings together all the comforting flavors of a traditional holiday dinner in an easy-to-make dish perfect for any night of the week. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken nestled under a golden, herb-infused stuffing crust, all baked to perfection – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that’ll transport you straight to grandma's kitchen.
This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. It's a fantastic solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or simply when you want to wrap your family in a warm, delicious hug. Get ready to add this ultimate comfort food to your regular rotation!
Why Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a Must-Try
Beyond its incredible flavor, this casserole offers so many reasons to fall in love:
- Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it's perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Hearty & Filling: It's a complete meal that will satisfy even the biggest appetites.
- Family Favorite: A classic combination that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings or extra vegetables.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable pantry staples to create a lavish-tasting meal.
If you enjoy comforting chicken dishes, you might also like our recipe for Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: Your 15-Minute Recipe Guide! for another delicious chicken option.
Gather Your Simple Ingredients
One of the best parts about Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is its reliance on readily available ingredients. You'll likely have most of these on hand already, making it a spontaneous weeknight savior.
Key Components:
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut!
- Stuffing Mix: Any savory herb boxed stuffing mix will do.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: The creamy base that binds it all together.
- Chicken Broth & Sour Cream: For moisture and a rich, tangy depth.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for a perfectly golden, crispy stuffing topping.
- Seasonings: Just a touch of black pepper and garlic powder brings out the best in this dish.
Before you dive in, ensure your chicken is cooked through and shredded. For general tips on preparing chicken, you can refer to authoritative sources like the Food Safety Guidelines on Cooking Temperatures to ensure your poultry is perfect every time.
Making Your Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is designed for ease. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a bubbling, golden casserole ready to enjoy in no time. The detailed instructions are in the recipe card below!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Save time by grabbing a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. Shred it quickly, and you're halfway there!
- Add Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by folding in 1 cup of thawed frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots) or cooked chopped celery into the chicken mixture.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra-crisp stuffing layer, consider drizzling a little extra melted butter over the top before baking. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the chicken layer and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the stuffing topping just before baking.
Serving Up Comfort
Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a satisfying meal all on its own. Its rich, savory flavors make it a standalone star. However, if you're looking to round out the meal, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh counterpoint. For another hearty and comforting meal idea, consider our Slow Cooker Beef Curry: An Easy, Flavorful & Comforting Recipe.
Get ready to create new memories around the table with this wonderfully easy and delicious Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Can I substitute turkey for chicken in this casserole?
Yes, absolutely! This casserole is wonderfully versatile. Leftover shredded turkey works perfectly in place of chicken, making it an excellent dish for using up holiday leftovers or Sunday roast turkey.
How can I prepare Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in advance?
You can assemble the chicken mixture portion of the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, prepare the stuffing topping and spread it over the chilled chicken mixture. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this hearty casserole?
Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a complete and satisfying meal on its own. However, if you'd like to add a side, a light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or even a side of cranberry sauce would complement its rich flavors beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole for extra nutrition?
Definitely! For added color and nutrients, feel free to stir in about 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots), thawed, into the chicken mixture before spreading it into the baking dish. Cooked mushrooms or diced celery would also be delicious additions.
Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
A wonderfully easy and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken baked with savory stuffing, perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (6 oz) box savory herb stuffing mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots), thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, black pepper, and garlic powder. If using, stir in the thawed mixed vegetables.
Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, combine the stuffing crumbs from the box with 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, mixing until moistened.
Step 5: Carefully sprinkle the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish, ensuring an even crust.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the stuffing topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
For an extra crispy topping, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This casserole is also great for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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