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Dolly's chicken and stuffing casserole is a homestyle classic, rich and comforting, exactly what you want to bring everyone around the table. This recipe blends juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and a buttery, golden stuffing topping for a dish that tastes like a Sunday dinner with very little fuss. It is the casserole my family begs for at holiday gatherings, but it is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.
I first made this casserole when I needed to bring something hearty for a sick friend. It was such a huge hit that my own family now asks for it on cozy rainy nights or anytime comfort food is a must.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Cooked and shredded chicken: brings the heartiness and protein, aim for rotisserie chicken for flavor and tenderness
- Cream of chicken soup: ensures a creamy base and classic flavor, check for low-sodium or organic brands
- Cream of mushroom soup: deepens flavor with earthiness, or swap for cream of celery
- Sour cream: adds a lovely tang, choose full-fat for richness
- Milk: helps loosen the sauce for easy mixing
- Onion powder: brings mellow background savoriness
- Garlic powder: gives gentle warmth, skip if avoiding garlic
- Dried thyme: gives subtle herby notes, use fresh if on hand for brighter flavor
- Black pepper: sharpens the seasoning, crack your own for freshness
- Salt: ties everything together, season to taste especially if using salty soups
- Stuffing mix: brings that signature casserole crunch, choose herb or cornbread style for different twists
- Melted butter: coats the stuffing with extra richness, use real butter for best results
- Chicken broth: keeps stuffing moist and flavorful
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): for oozy richness, try extra sharp for punch
- Frozen peas (optional): for color and an easy veggie boost
How to Make It
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Set your dish aside.
- Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling:
- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until it looks smooth and evenly incorporated. Every bite should be creamy.
- Spread the Chicken Layer:
- Spoon the chicken mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly all the way to the corners. This ensures every portion bakes the same.
- Prepare the Stuffing Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with the melted butter and chicken broth. Stir until the bread pieces are evenly coated but not gummy. You want the stuffing moist but still fluffy.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Scatter the stuffing mixture gently over the top of the creamy chicken base. Give it a little press to ensure even coverage. Now is the moment for adding shredded cheddar cheese if using—just sprinkle evenly on top.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. Check after 30 minutes—the top should look deeply golden and you will hear the filling bubbling around the edges. For extra crunch, add a minute or two if needed.
The best part for me has always been the stuffing topping, especially those buttery crisp bits on the corners. My youngest always sneaks into the kitchen just as it comes out of the oven to claim an extra scoop of the golden crust.
Flavor Boosters
Dot a little extra butter on top of the stuffing if you crave more crunch. Chop cooked broccoli or spinach finely to hide extra veggies for picky eaters. Always taste your filling before baking to adjust for salt levels in canned soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for balance. It also pairs perfectly with cranberry sauce or a dollop of homemade gravy. Big family gatherings love this dish alongside green beans and warm rolls.
Creative Twists
If you do not have cream of mushroom soup, use more cream of chicken or even cream of celery for a lighter flavor. Plain Greek yogurt makes a good swap for sour cream in a pinch. For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free stuffing mix and soups. Swap in leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for a post-holiday meal that feels brand new.
This casserole is always welcomed at the table and brings back memories of laughter and togetherness. Leftovers barely last a day in our home—it's just that good.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this dish. Just shred or chop before mixing.
- → Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Any cream-based soup like celery or extra chicken can be used for a slightly different flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Feel free to add frozen peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- → Is it possible to make in advance?
Assemble ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if cold.