Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Comforting Classic for Busy Weeknights
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce in one delicious dish. This easy-to-make casserole has been a family favorite for generations, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal with minimal effort. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
What makes this chicken and stuffing casserole special is its perfect balance of flavors. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the herb-infused stuffing, while the creamy sauce ties everything together. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a casual gathering, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory chicken with herbaceous stuffing and creamy sauce creates a perfectly balanced dish with comforting flavors.
- Texture: Tender chicken contrasts with the slightly crispy stuffing topping, while the creamy sauce adds smooth richness.
- Aroma: The casserole fills your kitchen with the warm scents of roasted chicken, herbs, and buttery stuffing as it bakes.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown stuffing topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken layer beneath.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques that anyone can master.
- Special Equipment: Just a 9×13 baking dish and basic kitchen tools are needed.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This chicken and stuffing casserole is perfect for beginners with its straightforward preparation and minimal hands-on time. The recipe uses common ingredients and simple techniques.
- Category: Main dish casserole that works equally well for family dinners and potluck gatherings.
- Cuisine: American comfort food with Southern influences, showcasing classic flavor combinations.
- Cost: Budget-friendly using pantry staples and affordable chicken cuts.
- Season: Perfect for cooler months but delicious year-round.
- Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The taste and texture of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole make it an instant favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful stuffing, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying mouthfeel with every bite. The stuffing forms a golden crust on top while staying moist underneath, providing the perfect textural contrast to the tender chicken.
This casserole offers unbeatable convenience for busy cooks. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting dish ready for the oven. It’s a complete meal in one dish, eliminating the need for multiple side dishes. The recipe is also forgiving, allowing for variations based on what you have on hand.
Nutritionally, this chicken and stuffing casserole provides a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the stuffing. You can boost the nutritional value by using whole grain stuffing mix and adding vegetables like peas or carrots to the mix. The creamy sauce adds richness without being overly heavy.
For social gatherings, this casserole shines as a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to transport for potlucks and serves a group effortlessly. The comforting flavors evoke nostalgia, making it perfect for family reunions or holiday meals. Leftovers (if you have any!) taste even better the next day.
Cost-effectiveness is another advantage of this recipe. Using affordable chicken cuts and pantry staples keeps the budget in check while delivering restaurant-quality flavors. The ingredients are accessible year-round at any grocery store, making it a reliable go-to recipe.
The Recipe
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (6 oz) package chicken-flavored stuffing mix
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with melted butter. Stir until well coated.
- Sprinkle the stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture.
- Substitute turkey for chicken if preferred.
- Add 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables to boost nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.