Name: Dolly's Chicken & Stuffing Casserole: Ultimate Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (a store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonders here, or use baked chicken breasts you've prepped); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise (choose your preference for richness; sour cream adds a tang, mayo is ultra-creamy); 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread, whatever your heart desires for that perfect flavor base); 2 tablespoons melted butter; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Honestly, some recipes just stick with you, becoming those comforting staples you turn to time and again. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is exactly that kind of dish for our family. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, bringing together tender chicken, a rich, creamy sauce, and that undeniably crisp, golden stuffing topping we all adore. If you’re searching for the ultimate easy chicken casserole recipe that delivers on flavor and pure nostalgia, look no further. This make-ahead friendly wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or simply when you need a little extra cozy in your life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (a store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonders here, or use baked chicken breasts you’ve prepped)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise (choose your preference for richness; sour cream adds a tang, mayo is ultra-creamy)
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread, whatever your heart desires for that perfect flavor base)
2 tablespoons melted butter
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Prep Your Pan and Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good grease. You want to make sure nothing sticks, and clean-up is a breeze later.

Jump to Recipe Save Recipe

Step 2

Whip Up the Creamy Base: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, the entire can of cream of chicken soup, the sour cream (or mayonnaise, if you went that route), and the chicken broth. Stir gently until everything is smoothly incorporated. You’re aiming for a consistent, creamy texture.

Step 3

Fill the Dish & Prep the Stuffing: Spoon this delightful chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Now for the stuffing! Prepare it according to the box directions, but here’s a crucial tip: use just a smidge less water than recommended. This little tweak is your secret weapon against soggy stuffing and ensures that golden, crispy topping we all crave.

Step 4

Top with Stuffing & Butter: Carefully spoon the prepared stuffing over the chicken mixture, spreading it out to cover everything. For that irresistible golden-brown finish and extra crispiness, drizzle the melted butter evenly across the top.

Step 5

Bake to Golden Perfection: Pop the uncovered casserole into your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the edges are bubbling merrily, indicating everything inside is hot and delicious.

Step 6

A Moment of Rest: This is usually where recipes rush you, but trust me on this one. Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This brief pause allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, ensuring perfect scoops every time.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

Honestly, a few simple tricks can elevate Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole from good to absolutely unforgettable.**Practical Tips & Troubleshooting:** * **Preventing Soggy Stuffing:** This is the big one! As mentioned in the instructions, using slightly less water than the package instructions recommend when preparing your stuffing mix is key. You want it moist enough to combine but not waterlogged. A dry stuffing base will crisp up beautifully. Also, ensure your chicken mixture isn’t overly wet. If you use very moist shredded chicken, you might even consider reducing the chicken broth by a tablespoon or two. * **Make-Ahead Magic:** This casserole is a dream for meal prep! Assemble the entire dish (steps 1-4) without baking. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if baking from cold. * **Evenly Shredded Chicken:** If you’re cooking your own chicken, shred it while it’s still warm. It’s much easier to pull apart and ensures a uniform texture throughout the casserole. * **Crispier Topping:** For an even crunchier top, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a few crushed buttery crackers mixed into your stuffing before drizzling with butter. * **Freezing Leftovers:** Cooked casserole freezes wonderfully. Divide into individual portions, cool completely, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.**Substitutions & Flavor Variations:** Let’s be real, sometimes you need to get creative with what you have or adapt a dish to suit different tastes. Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is incredibly versatile! * **Meat Swaps:** No chicken? No problem! Cooked turkey (especially Thanksgiving leftovers!) is a fantastic substitute. You could even experiment with shredded pork. * **Soup Alternatives:** While cream of chicken soup is classic, feel free to use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Condensed cheddar soup could also add a delightful cheesy twist. * **Dairy-Free Option:** For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative, and swap sour cream for a dairy-free plain yogurt or cashew cream. Ensure your stuffing mix is also dairy-free. * **Vegetable Boost:** Feel free to stir in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables into the chicken mixture before baking for added nutrients and color. Sautéed mushrooms or finely diced celery and onions would also be lovely. * **Cheesy Goodness:** If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle 1/2 to 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese over the chicken mixture before adding the stuffing. It melts beautifully into the creamy base. * **Spice It Up:** A pinch of dried thyme, poultry seasoning, or even a dash of hot sauce in the chicken mixture can add another layer of flavor if you like a bit of a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey is an excellent substitute for chicken in this casserole. It will taste just as delicious, making it a perfect post-holiday meal. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before adding it to the mixture.

How can I prevent the stuffing from getting soggy?

The best way to prevent soggy stuffing is to use slightly less water than the package instructions recommend when preparing your stuffing mix. This ensures it’s moist but not saturated. Also, make sure your chicken mixture isn’t excessively liquidy.

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is very make-ahead friendly! You can assemble it completely (up to step 4) and then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, possibly adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s still quite cold.

What sides pair well with this casserole?

Because Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, simple sides work best. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side of cranberry sauce would all complement it beautifully without overwhelming the main dish.

Can I use a different type of cream soup?

You certainly can! While cream of chicken soup provides that classic flavor, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup are fantastic alternatives that will still create a wonderfully creamy base. For a cheesier casserole, you could even try condensed cheddar soup.