Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, rich soups, and savory stuffing into one delicious meal. With its creamy texture and customizable options like cheese and peas, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it a reliable favorite for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: This casserole is sure to please picky eaters with its familiar flavors and comforting texture.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins, such as cheese or vegetables.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day; it tastes even better!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for even cooking and serving portions for families.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

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

For Seasoning

• 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 Add-Ins

• 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: Spread the Chicken Mixture

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing Layer

In another bowl:
1. Combine stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth.
2. Stir well until evenly moistened.
3. Spread it evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Enjoy Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole warm!

How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the flavors of the casserole perfectly.

Pair with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that pairs well with the creamy texture.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet and savory roasted carrots add a colorful touch to your plate.

Add Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for a comforting addition to your meal.

Top with Extras

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top before serving for added flavor and color.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish even further.

How to Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

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

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor without extra cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to your preference; adding herbs like rosemary can enhance the taste.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps set the layers for easier serving.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making reheating easy.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

When serving Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, pairing it with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort alongside the casserole.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds provide crunch and nutrition.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings healthy grains into your meal with various veggies.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These add a hint of sweetness and are easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve as an appetizer before the main course for an extra indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always make sure your oven is at the right temperature before placing the casserole inside.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect texture. Ensure your chicken, soups, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother blend.
• Overmixing the Chicken Mixture: Overmixing can lead to a dense casserole. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not Letting it Rest: Serving immediately can cause the casserole to fall apart. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for better consistency.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Each brand of soup varies in flavor. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in an airtight container.
• item It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• item Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
• item Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Cook it first until done, then shred before adding it to the casserole.

What type of stuffing mix is best?

Any stuffing mix like Stove Top works well. You can choose traditional or flavored varieties based on your preference.

How do I customize Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

You can add vegetables like peas or carrots, or even sprinkle cheese on top for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything but bake it. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready to serve.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Just make sure it is cooled completely before packaging it for the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients like cheese or veggies, ensuring that it fits perfectly into your family’s preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare!