Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the warmth of the oven wrapping around me, I couldn’t help but smile at the irresistible scent of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole wafting through the air. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, perfectly suited for cozy weeknight dinners or cherished family gatherings. With the ease of using rotisserie chicken, you can whip this up in no time, making it a fantastic choice for those busy evenings. But what I love most is how this casserole adapts effortlessly to fit any dietary need—whether you want a gluten-free twist or a lighter, dairy-free option, it delivers that homey, feel-good flavor every time. Ready to dive into the love and nostalgia of this Southern classic? Let’s get cooking! Why Is This Casserole a Must-Try? Comforting Warmth: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole wraps you in delicious nostalgia, making it perfect for family feasts or comforting weeknight meals. Versatile Options: With variations like gluten-free or dairy-free, this dish caters to everyone’s needs, ensuring no one misses out on flavor! Quick and Easy: Using rotisserie chicken means less prep time, allowing you to get dinner on the table faster while still impressing your loved ones. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich creamy sauce combined with a crunchy stuffing top creates a delightful contrast, making it an instant favorite for family gatherings. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat. It’s freezer-friendly too, making your meal prep a breeze! Check out ideas for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo or Vegetable Casserole Cozy to pair with this comforting dish! Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Ingredients For the Chicken Base Cooked Chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or opt for cooked chicken breast to keep it tender and juicy. Cream of Chicken Soup – This acts as a creamy base to bind the ingredients; for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or low-sodium broth. Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor; swap with Greek yogurt for a healthier choice. For the Stuffing Stuffing Mix – Provides texture and flavor; substitute with cornbread stuffing for a sweeter twist! Chicken Broth – Enhances moisture in the casserole; choose low-sodium broth for a healthier, less salty dish. Butter – Helps brown and crisp the stuffing for added richness; it’s optional if you prefer a lighter version. For the Seasoning Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, and Dried Herbs) – Enhance the flavor profile; customize with your favorite local herbs for a personal touch. Enjoy exploring variations to this comforting Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that bring warmth to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, one can of cream of chicken soup, and one cup of sour cream, mixing well until everything is fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs to taste. This mixture will be the deliciously creamy base of your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, so make sure it’s smooth and even. Step 2: Layer the Casserole Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle the stuffing mix gently on top, ensuring it covers the chicken completely. For an extra layer of richness, drizzle melted butter over the stuffing before proceeding to bake. This will help create a beautifully golden crust. Step 3: Bake the Casserole Place the casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the edges of the casserole are bubbling with a hint of creamy goodness. This baking time ensures your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is heated through and perfectly crispy on top. Step 4: Cool before Serving Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for about 5–10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. The Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is now ready to be dished up! Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors with your loved ones. Variations & Substitutions for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Feel free to customize this beloved Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs—let’s get creative in the kitchen! Cornbread Stuffing: Swap regular stuffing for cornbread stuffing to introduce a subtle sweetness that elevates the flavor profile. Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free stuffing and a low-sodium broth to create a delicious dish without the gluten. Dairy-Free: For a lighter version, replace sour cream and butter with dairy-free substitutes like cashew cream or olive oil. Herb Variations: Experiment with your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to infuse the dish with seasonal flavors that speak to your palate. Vegetable Boost: Mix in some chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and texture! This little twist awakens your casserole, making it even more nutritious. Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy edge. This variation is perfect for those who crave a bit of heat in their comfort food. Make it Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with a combination of lentils and chickpeas, using vegetable broth to maintain that comforting essence. Add Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed crackers or fried onion rings on top before baking for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers below. No matter how you choose to modify it, this casserole remains a heartwarming dish. Need more meal ideas? Try pairing it with Baked Hot Honey Chicken for a delightful sweet and savory combo, or round out your meal with a Vegetable Casserole Cozy for extra veggie goodness! What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Transform your pour-family time into an unforgettable meal by complementing this cozy casserole with delicious sides. Steamed Green Beans: The bright, crunchy texture provides a fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy casserole, helping to lighten the meal. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, enhancing every last bite of comfort food goodness. Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the warmth of the casserole beautifully. Consider packing it with seasonal veggies for a colorful feast! Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For those who adore a hearty meal, these velvety potatoes offer an extra creamy decadence that pairs perfectly with the casserole’s crispy topping. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized, slightly nutty veggies bring a delightful contrast in taste and texture, making every mouthful an exciting adventure. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweeter companion dish rounds out the meal with its soft, buttery texture, providing a delightful balance to the savory flavors of the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Chardonnay: This crisp and fruity white wine lifts the flavors of both the casserole and your sides, making dinners even more enjoyable. Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert. Its comforting spices and crunchy top echo the coziness of the casserole, making for a perfect finish. Storage Tips for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before storing to preserve texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, this Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen casserole, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This slow method maintains the best taste and texture. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covering with foil to keep it moist. Expert Tips for Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Perfect Chicken Prep: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience; ensure it’s shredded evenly to avoid clumps in your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Avoid Soggy Stuffing: Don’t overdo the liquids! Adjust broth quantities to keep your stuffing crispy on top while still moist inside. Don’t Skip Seasoning: Flavor it up! Use a variety of dried herbs to elevate the taste profile and bring out the deliciousness of your Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Check Temperature: Always verify the casserole’s internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to enjoy. Customize with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with local fresh herbs for an added depth of flavor; they can make your casserole uniquely yours! Make Ahead Options Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a perfect meal prep solution for busy home cooks! You can prepare the creamy chicken base and layer it in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, the stuffing can be mixed and stored separately, which helps maintain its texture. When you’re ready to serve, just sprinkle the stuffing on top, drizzle with melted butter, and bake right from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated thoroughly. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort after a long day! Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for the casserole? Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it’s already cooked and shreds easily. If you prefer, opt for cooked chicken breast, which will keep the dish tender and juicy. Either way, make sure the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces to evenly mix throughout the casserole. How should I store leftovers? Keep any leftover Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before storing to help maintain its delightful texture and flavor, ensuring every bite is as good as the first! Can I freeze Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, and how long will it last? Yes, you can absolutely freeze this casserole! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This method helps keep the flavors intact and ensures the casserole maintains its fantastic texture. What should I do if my stuffing turns out soggy? Very good question! If you find your stuffing is soggy, it’s likely due to too much liquid in the dish. To prevent this next time, make sure you’re not overdoing the liquids like broth and cream soup. Additionally, bake it uncovered to allow moisture to escape and create a crispy topping. If you feel it’s too late and your stuffing is soggy, let it cool for a few minutes, as this can help it firm up slightly. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Certainly! This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free stuffing. If you’re looking for a lighter version, combine non-fat Greek yogurt with low-sodium broth instead of sour cream. Always check labels for any allergens if cooking for guests with specific dietary restrictions, as ingredients can vary greatly between brands! Ultimate Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for Cozy Nights This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting classic, perfect for cozy nights and adaptable for any dietary need. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: SouthernCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Base3 cups shredded cooked chicken use rotisserie chicken for convenience1 can cream of chicken soup acts as a creamy base1 cup sour cream adds creaminess; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter choiceFor the Stuffing1 box stuffing mix provides texture; substitute with cornbread stuffing for a sweeter twist1 cup chicken broth choose low-sodium broth for a healthier option1/4 cup butter optional for added richnessFor the Seasoningseasonings (salt, pepper, and dried herbs) customize with local herbs for a personal touch Equipment 9x13 inch baking dishMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, one can of cream of chicken soup, and one cup of sour cream, mixing well until fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the stuffing mix gently on top, ensuring it covers the chicken completely. Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing.Place the casserole in the oven and let it bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.Allow the casserole to cool for about 5–10 minutes for the layers to set before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
