Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: The Best Easy Comfort Recipe

Nothing beats the heartwarming taste of a classic casserole, and Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole has become a family favorite for a reason. This easy, creamy, and filling dish brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re whipping up Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for a weeknight dinner, preparing ahead for a holiday, or simply craving a hearty home-cooked meal, this recipe delivers the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort.

It’s more than just combining chicken and stuffing ,Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is about creating a mealtime experience that feels like home. This dish comes together quickly, can be customized to suit your taste, and leaves your kitchen smelling like warmth and tradition.Don’t miss our Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you love easy, flavorful comfort dishes like this.

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What Is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

The Origin of This Classic Casserole

For decades, casseroles have been a beloved cornerstone of American kitchens, offering busy families a way to put hearty, flavorful meals on the table without a fuss. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a modern take on this tradition, combining pantry-friendly ingredients with a homestyle twist. It’s believed to have gained popularity as a “shortcut” comfort dish—ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need something hearty, fast, and foolproof.

This recipe typically features pre-cooked chicken (or raw if you prefer a longer bake time), boxed stuffing mix, and creamy soups to create a balanced, layered casserole. Over the years, variations have emerged, using cornbread stuffing for Southern flair or adding vegetables for extra nutrition.

Why This Recipe Became a Family Favorite

So what makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole stand out? It’s simple, adaptable, and deeply satisfying. You can make it with leftover chicken or even turkey, throw it together in under 15 minutes, and let the oven do the rest. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the crispy stuffing topping, creating a texture contrast that keeps people coming back for more.

Even picky eaters find something to love in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Plus, it’s easy to double the batch for potlucks, family reunions, or meal prepping for the week. If you’re new to casseroles or want a “can’t-fail” dish, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect place to start.

Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

The Core Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is so popular is because it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe:

• Chicken – About 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great).
• Stuffing mix – One 6-ounce box of seasoned stuffing mix.
• Cream soup – One can (10.5 ounces) of cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom if you want a richer flavor).
• Broth or water – 1 to 1½ cups, to moisten the stuffing.
• Butter – ½ cup (melted) for extra flavor and richness.
• Sour cream – 1 cup, for creaminess (can be swapped with Greek yogurt).
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.

Tip: Using pre-cooked chicken makes this casserole come together fast. If you prefer using raw chicken, adjust the baking time (see Part 3).

Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor

Want to make this dish your own? Here are some ideas:

• Vegetables: Add frozen mixed vegetables or fresh broccoli for added nutrition.
• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella between the layers.
• Southern-style stuffing: For a Southern spin, swap out the standard boxed mix for flavorful cornbread stuffing.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley, sage, or thyme can brighten up the flavors.

This adaptability means you can easily tweak the recipe to fit your taste preferences or work with what you’ve already got in your kitchen.

Looking for more creative ways to use pantry staples? Check out this Buona Beef Tuna Genovese copycat recipe for another hearty, homemade classic.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Prepare the Chicken and Stuffing

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
2. Mix the stuffing: In a large bowl, stir together the stuffing mix, melted butter, and broth or water until the mixture is fully moistened.
3. Combine the creamy filling: In another bowl, blend the cream of chicken soup with the sour cream. Add your preferred seasonings to taste.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole

1. Layer the chicken: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom.
2. Spread the creamy mixture: Pour the soup and sour cream blend over the chicken, smoothing it into an even layer.
3. Top with stuffing: Distribute the prepared stuffing evenly over the creamy mixture.
4. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25–30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp.
5. Check for doneness: If you’re using raw chicken, extend the baking time to 50–55 minutes total, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Pro Tip: Want an irresistible crunchy topping? Switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes to give the stuffing a perfectly crisp finish.

Tips for Perfecting Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

How to Keep the Stuffing Moist, Not Soggy

A common issue with casseroles is soggy stuffing — but that’s easy to fix. The key is striking the perfect balance between the liquid and the stuffing mix. Add just enough broth to moisten the mix, but don’t overdo it. Start with foil on the dish during the first half of baking to trap in moisture, then remove it near the end so the topping can develop a beautiful crisp texture. If you prefer a crunchier finish, use slightly less liquid and leave the casserole uncovered for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Seasoning and Texture Tricks

Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. Taste your creamy mixture before layering, adding salt, pepper, or extra herbs if needed. If you want more depth, mix in a pinch of poultry seasoning or fresh thyme. For texture, toss a handful of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the stuffing layer before broiling. These small tweaks can take your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole from good to unforgettable.

Want to take your flavors up a notch? Learn more about adding smoky depth with liquid smoke and russet potatoes to elevate simple dishes like this.

Variations of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Using Cornbread Stuffing for a Southern Twist

Want to add a fresh spin to this recipe? Swap out the traditional boxed stuffing for cornbread stuffing. It adds a touch of sweetness and a Southern-inspired flair that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and creamy filling. Planning this for a holiday feast? Cornbread stuffing brings a festive, seasonal vibe that makes the dish even more special.

Making It with Turkey, Pork, or Veggie Options

No chicken on hand? No problem. This casserole is incredibly versatile. Substitute the chicken with shredded turkey (a perfect way to use Thanksgiving leftovers), cooked pork, or even a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian option. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a meatless version that still packs plenty of flavor.

If you enjoy exploring bold flavors, don’t miss our fresh and zesty Conch Salad recipe for a refreshing twist alongside hearty casseroles.

Make-Ahead and Storage Guide for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

How to Prepare Dolly’s Casserole in Advance

One of the best things about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is how well it works for make-ahead preparation — this makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole perfect for busy families. To save time, assemble the casserole completely — chicken, creamy layer, and stuffing — then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

Want to plan even further ahead? Put the fully assembled casserole in the dish, cover it tightly with two layers of foil and plastic wrap, and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight before baking as usual.

Freezing and Reheating Tips

To keep your casserole tasting fresh after freezing, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–50 minutes, covered with foil, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to crisp the top. For storing leftovers, place them in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Meal prepping? Discover this high-protein chicken salad for an easy lunch option to complement your dinner plans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Why Stuffing Turns Out Soggy & How to Fix It

Nobody wants mushy stuffing. Too much liquid or overmixing are usually the culprits. Use just enough broth to moisten the stuffing and gently toss instead of stirring aggressively. Also, avoid keeping the dish covered for the entire baking time — uncovering for the last 10–15 minutes helps the top develop that signature crispness.

Avoiding Overcooked or Undercooked Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken, make sure it’s cut into smaller, even pieces so it cooks evenly. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer — it should reach 165°F before serving. On the flip side, using pre-cooked chicken? Don’t overbake it. Stick to the shorter baking time to prevent the meat from drying out.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is filling on its own, but pairing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with the right sides makes it even more satisfying. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds a refreshing balance to the creamy, hearty casserole. For a classic family dinner, serve it with green beans, glazed carrots, or buttered corn.

Perfect Side Dishes for a Complete Meal

Want to make it feel like a holiday feast? Pair the casserole with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and dinner rolls. If you’d like something on the lighter side, try serving it with steamed asparagus or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a bright, crisp contrast. This dish also works well with a simple fruit salad or baked apples for dessert — a sweet finish to a savory meal.

Conclusion: The Comfort You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than a recipe — it’s a dish that feels like home. With its creamy filling, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned stuffing, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers the kind of hearty, soul-warming comfort everyone craves. It’s quick enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to hold its own at holiday gatherings.

Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, this casserole is one of those recipes you’ll return to again and again. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and bring a little extra comfort to your table tonight.

Looking for more impressive dinner ideas? Try our Instant Pot Seafood Boil — a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly simple to make.

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FAQs about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole