Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you come home from a long day at work or are gathering family and friends for a cozy dinner, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Inspired by the classic flavors of comfort food, this casserole is perfectly suited for busy weeknights or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why We Love This Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe
The appeal of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole lies not only in its hearty and fulfilling nature but also in its nostalgia. This recipe conjures memories of family gatherings and cherished holidays, making it an all-time favorite for many. Its combination of shredded chicken and rich, creamy ingredients, topped with savory stuffing, creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Every bite is reminiscent of home-cooked goodness, and it warms you from the inside out.
Unlike many elaborate recipes that take hours to prepare, this casserole is quick and easy. You can assemble it in under 30 minutes, and it bakes to golden perfection in just over half an hour. This effortless preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories with your loved ones.
Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
To create this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are easy to find and often staples in your kitchen. Each component contributes to the casserole’s incredible taste, making each bite a delight.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Directions
Follow these easy steps to prepare Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little cooking spray or butter. This step is essential to prevent the casserole from sticking and to help achieve a beautiful golden crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Once combined, spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. It’s important to ensure an even distribution so that every bite has a nice balance of flavors.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. However, consider using slightly less water than recommended. This will help prevent the stuffing from becoming soggy, ensuring that it bakes up light and fluffy.
- After preparing the stuffing, spoon it generously over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. Try to spread it out evenly for the best results.
- Drizzle the melted butter across the top of the stuffing. This step adds flavor and helps to achieve a beautiful golden crust while baking.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35–40 minutes. You’ll want to see the top become golden and the edges start bubbling, which indicates it’s ready.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and gives the dish a perfect texture before serving.
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily whip up a warm and delightful casserole that’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table!
How to Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Serving Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is as simple as it is delicious. Once it has rested and cooled slightly, you can cut it into squares and serve it directly from the baking dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or even some homemade biscuits.
For an added touch, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your meal. Don’t forget to provide your family and friends with plenty of napkins; they’ll want to savor every last bite!
Expert Tips: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
To ensure you get the most out of your casserole experience, here are some expert tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality rotisserie chicken or well-cooked chicken breast can greatly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overwater the Stuffing: Be cautious with the amount of water used in the stuffing preparation. A drier stuffing will provide a better texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Feel free to add chopped vegetables such as celery, onions, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead of Time: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10 minutes of baking time if you bake it directly from the fridge.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the dish by experimenting with different seasonings or spices. A little garlic powder, onion powder, or even some thyme can elevate the flavors significantly.
By following these expert suggestions, you can make a dish that impresses your family and friends every time.
How to Store Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Storing your leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing portions for longer storage. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is incredibly versatile. While the original recipe is outstanding, here are a few variations you might consider to tweak it:
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas into the chicken mixture to add color and nutrition.
- Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use turkey or even shredded beef for a completely different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: If you adore cheese, sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top of the stuffing before baking. This adds a savory gooeyness that many find irresistible.
- Whole Grain Stuffing: Switch to whole grain stuffing mix to make it a bit healthier while maintaining the comforting flavors.
- Herbed Variations: Experiment with different stuffing varieties, such as apple and sage or herb seasonings, to give your casserole a unique twist each time.
These variations allow you to make the recipe your own while still relying on its comforting core.
FAQ: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
What makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole so special?
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is special because it combines the warmth of homemade comfort food with straightforward preparation. This dish brings the family together, offers a satisfying meal, and is adaptable for various tastes and preferences.
Can I use frozen chicken for this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to cook it thoroughly before shredding. It’s best to work with already cooked or rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
Is it possible to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken for hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. There’s also stuffing made specifically for vegetarian diets that you can use.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Prepare it a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
How can I reheat leftover casserole?
To reheat the leftovers, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2-3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions, using slightly less water than recommended.
- Spoon the stuffing over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the stuffing.
- Bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and allow to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
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