Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish
When it comes to cozy, crowd-pleasing meals, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a true gem. Inspired by the comforting flavors of home-cooked classics, this casserole combines tender shredded chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s baked to golden perfection. With its rich, satisfying texture and warm, familiar taste, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a little culinary hug. Ready in just about an hour, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Let’s dive into this soul-soothing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a standout for so many reasons:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines the nostalgic flavors of stuffing and creamy chicken in one hearty dish.
- Quick and Simple: Uses pantry staples and pre-cooked chicken for a fuss-free preparation.
- Family-Friendly: Its mild, savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prepping.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite add-ins or dietary tweaks.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
To create this comforting casserole, gather these ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (approximately 3 large chicken breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded for convenience) 🍗
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top, any savory flavor like chicken or herb) 🥖
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, for a creamy, savory base 🥣
- 1/2 cup sour cream, to add tanginess and richness 🧀
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, to moisten the casserole 🍲
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder, for a subtle savory kick 🧄
- 1/2 tsp onion powder, for a hint of sweetness and depth 🧅
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (optional, for extra richness and flavor) 🧈
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish (optional) 🌿
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. For easier cleanup, you can line the dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
- Prepare the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook 3 large chicken breasts by boiling, baking, or poaching until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks or your hands. Alternatively, a store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a time-saving option. Aim for about 4 cups of shredded chicken.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dry stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using the optional butter, drizzle it into the mixture for an extra layer of richness. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet, with the stuffing mix evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Gently press down to ensure the casserole is compact and uniform, which helps it bake evenly and hold together when sliced.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent the top from drying out. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The stuffing mix will develop a delightful crunch, contrasting with the creamy interior.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Serve hot, scooping generous portions onto plates for a comforting, hearty meal.
Prep and Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6-8
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad to add freshness and balance.
- Cranberry Twist: A dollop of cranberry sauce on the side adds a sweet-tart contrast, reminiscent of holiday feasts.
- Bread: Offer dinner rolls or cornbread for extra comfort-food vibes.
- Holiday Spread: Include this casserole as part of a larger spread with mashed potatoes, gravy, and roasted vegetables for a festive meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a time-saver, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds extra flavor and cuts down on prep time.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture seems too dry, add an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth. If too wet, reduce the broth slightly.
- Enhance the Stuffing: For extra flavor, prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions before adding it to the casserole, though the dry mix works well for simplicity.
- Make It Pretty: Sprinkle extra stuffing crumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for an even crispier topping.
- Season to Taste: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed, especially if using low-sodium broth or soup.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the casserole mixture for a gooey, cheesy version.
- Veggie-Packed: Add 1 cup of sautéed vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition and texture.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or use a herb-flavored stuffing mix for a more aromatic dish.
- Creamy Alternatives: Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without baking) in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
The Story Behind the Dish
This casserole draws inspiration from the comforting, down-home cooking style of Dolly Parton, whose love for hearty, Southern-inspired dishes is well-known. While not directly her recipe, it captures the essence of her warm, welcoming culinary philosophy—simple ingredients, big flavors, and a whole lot of love. The poke-cake style and creamy, stuffing-filled texture make it a modern take on classic comfort food, perfect for bringing people together around the table.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
Elevate your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with these pairings:
- Drinks: Pair with a chilled iced tea, sparkling apple cider, or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio to complement the savory flavors.
- Appetizers: Start with a light appetizer like a cucumber salad or deviled eggs to keep the meal balanced.
- Dessert: Finish with a Southern-inspired dessert like peach cobbler, banana pudding, or the German Chocolate Poke Cake for a sweet ending.
This Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, blending simplicity with heartwarming flavors that feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to satisfy. Share it with your loved ones, and let us know how you make it your own in the comments below!
