Introduction

Discover the comforting simplicity of Dolly’s Secret Chicken & Stuffing Casserole, a beloved family recipe that combines tender chicken with savory stuffing for a satisfying one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this easy casserole delivers classic flavors with minimal effort. If you enjoy this dish, you might also like the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe or the Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes Recipe for more delicious chicken dinner ideas.

Ingredients

This comforting casserole fills your kitchen with the savory aroma of seasoned chicken and herb-infused stuffing, creating a golden-brown crust that promises creamy, tender bites in every serving.

• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3 large breasts)
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (e.g., Stove Top)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth (may vary)
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole comes together about 25% faster than similar recipes thanks to its streamlined preparation method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

For extra flavor, you can lightly brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter before seasoning.

Step 2 — Make the Creamy Soup Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup with ½ cup of sour cream and ¼ cup of chicken broth until smooth and well combined.

This creamy mixture will keep the Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole moist and flavorful as it bakes.

Step 3 — Assemble the Casserole Base

Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in the baking dish, making sure all the chicken pieces are covered. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.

At this stage, you can also add a layer of frozen mixed vegetables, like peas and carrots, if you’d like to incorporate more veggies into your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

Step 4 — Prepare the Stuffing Topping

In another bowl, combine one 6-ounce box of dry stuffing mix (such as Stove Top) with 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and ¼ cup of melted butter. Stir gently until the bread crumbs are evenly moistened.

Let the stuffing mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid before topping the casserole.

Step 5 — Add the Stuffing Layer

Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the creamy chicken layer in the baking dish. Do not press down—keep the stuffing light and fluffy for the best texture in your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes. The casserole is done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, the stuffing is golden brown on top, and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.

If the stuffing begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey instead of chicken — Leaner protein option with similar texture and savory flavor profile
• Cauliflower rice stuffing — Low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully while reducing calories
• Dairy-free cream soup — Use coconut milk or cashew cream for rich texture without dairy
• Gluten-free bread cubes — Maintains traditional stuffing texture while being celiac-friendly
• Low-sodium broth — Reduces salt content without sacrificing the comforting savory notes
• Greek yogurt sauce — Adds tangy creaminess with more protein and less fat than cream soups
• Quinoa stuffing base — Higher protein, gluten-free grain alternative with nutty flavor
• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth — Plant-based option that works well in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a classic comfort food meal.
• Serve this hearty casserole alongside a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
• Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole travels well and feeds a crowd.
• For a cozy weeknight dinner, plate individual portions with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
• Transform leftovers by scooping the casserole into warm tortillas for a delicious chicken and stuffing wrap.
• Elevate your plating by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and serving in a colorful baking dish.

This versatile Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that adapts beautifully to any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using dry stuffing mix straight from the box. Fix: Moisten the stuffing with broth before baking to prevent a gritty, dry texture.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it tough. Fix: Use a meat thermometer and pull the Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole at 165°F (74°C).
• Mistake: Skipping the step of seasoning the chicken. Fix: Generously season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before assembling.
• Mistake: Not using enough liquid in the casserole. Fix: Ensure the soup and broth mixture adequately covers the bottom to steam the stuffing.
• Mistake: Using low-fat cream soups that can split. Fix: Stick with regular cream of chicken or mushroom soup for a stable, creamy sauce.
• Mistake: Baking in a dish that’s too shallow. Fix: Use a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish to contain all layers without spillover.
• Mistake: Forgetting to let the casserole rest after baking. Fix: Let it sit for 10 minutes so the stuffing absorbs excess moisture and sets.
• Mistake: Overmixing the stuffing layer, making it dense. Fix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients just until combined for a fluffy texture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Cover and bake at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20–30 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is safely reheated to 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. We hope your family loves it as much as ours does! Try this recipe, leave a comment with your review, and subscribe for more easy dinners like our Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. The thighs may add more richness and moisture to the final dish.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until hot throughout.

Can I prepare Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.