Dolly's Chicken Stuffing Casserole

Dolly's chicken and stuffing casserole is a comfort food classic that brings everything you love about a cozy meal together in one baking dish. This casserole is creamy, savory, and layered with a buttery, crispy stuffing topping. It is the kind of dish you pull out on a busy weeknight or bring to a potluck and instantly feel at home.

Whenever I bake this for my family, the kitchen smells amazing and everyone always goes back for seconds. I first tried this with leftover Thanksgiving turkey and now swap in chicken throughout the year—it never disappoints.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: gives the dish hearty substance opt for rotisserie if you want it extra juicy
• Cream of chicken soup: creates a creamy base use low sodium if desired
• Cream of mushroom soup: brings earthy depth feel free to swap with cream of celery for a twist
• Sour cream: adds tangy creaminess and keeps everything moist choose full fat for a richer result
• Milk: lightens the texture and blends all the flavors whole milk is best
• Onion powder and garlic powder: infuse the mixture with savory notes use fresh if you have the time
• Dried thyme: imparts warmth and a herby finish
• Black pepper and salt: season the whole casserole taste as you go
• Stuffing mix: forms the classic crispy topping try to grab a seasoned version
• Melted butter: makes the stuffing irresistibly golden and flavorful
• Chicken broth: keeps the stuffing layer soft but not mushy choose low sodium for better control of salt
• Shredded cheddar cheese: is optional but makes the top extra rich and gooey use sharp cheddar for the best flavor
• Frozen peas: are optional and brighten the whole dish with a pop of color and nutrition grab petite peas if possible

How to Make It

Preheat and Prepare the Dish:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with softened butter or a light coat of cooking spray to ensure easy serving later

Make the Savory Base:

In a large mixing bowl add shredded chicken cream of chicken soup cream of mushroom soup sour cream milk onion powder garlic powder dried thyme salt and pepper Mix gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are evenly distributed This forms the creamy base that holds everything together

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish Use a silicone spatula to spread it into an even layer Cover every corner so the flavor is consistent in every bite

Prepare and Add the Stuffing Layer:

In a separate bowl combine your stuffing mix with the melted butter and chicken broth Stir well making sure every piece gets wet but is not mushy The stuffing should absorb the broth and become slightly fluffy Spoon and scatter this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken layer Gently press to create an even topping If desired scatter shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffing for extra richness

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking dish uncovered on the center rack Bake for 35 to 40 minutes Check halfway through if the top is browning too quickly cover loosely with foil Remove from the oven once the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling Let it rest for five minutes before serving so it firms up

The crispy buttery stuffing topping is always my favorite part Sometimes I even toast a little extra stuffing to sprinkle on individual servings for added bite My family gathers by the counter as soon as it comes out of the oven and the first cheesy scoop always draws cheers

Flavor Boosters

You can substitute cream of celery or any favorite cream soup instead of mushroom soup Swap chicken for leftover turkey for a post-holiday twist Add cooked veggies like carrots or green beans for extra color and nutrients

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a full meal Pair with cranberry sauce or roasted vegetables for a festive touch Offer with a dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added freshness

Creative Twists

Add fresh chopped herbs from the garden in spring for brightness Layer in roasted butternut squash or mushrooms during fall for a cozy seasonal variation In summer lighten it up by serving with a crisp tomato and cucumber salad

This casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Every time I serve it, it brings comfort and memories to our table.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can rotisserie chicken be used for this casserole?

Yes, rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time. Shred it well before mixing with other ingredients.

→ What soups work best in the sauce layer?

Cream of chicken and cream of mushroom are classic choices, but any cream soup like celery or potato can be substituted.

→ Can the casserole be assembled ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake, letting it sit at room temperature before cooking.

→ How do I achieve a golden, crispy topping?

Ensure the butter is well mixed into the stuffing blend and bake uncovered. For extra color, broil briefly at the end.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables for texture?

Yes, stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or sautéed onions for added flavor and nutrition without changing the classic taste.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.