Name: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485734H45M51S
Total time: PT-485734H45M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness); Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this casserole because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and uses ingredients I often have on hand. The combination of creamy chicken and flavorful stuffing creates a hearty meal that satisfies my cravings for comfort food. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with different add-ins, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
1 cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the dry stuffing mix with melted butter (if using) and chicken broth until the stuffing is moist but not soggy.
Evenly spread the stuffing mixture over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, totaling around 50-55 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Cheesy Delight: I sometimes add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture for extra richness.
Vegetable Boost: Mixing in ½ cup of frozen peas or chopped cooked vegetables adds color and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Incorporating ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary gives the dish a fragrant twist.
Spicy Kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes adds a pleasant heat for spice lovers.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, I place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, I prefer to use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the casserole’s texture. Alternatively, microwaving individual portions works well for a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I use homemade stuffing instead of a boxed mix?

Absolutely! I often use my homemade stuffing recipe in place of the boxed mix. Just ensure it’s moist enough by adding some broth if needed.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What other soups can I use instead of cream of chicken?

I sometimes substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Both work well in this recipe.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! I like to add cooked broccoli, green beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables to the chicken mixture for added texture and nutrition.

How do I make this casserole creamier?

For a creamier texture, I increase the sour cream to 1 cup and add an extra ½ cup of chicken broth. This makes the casserole more luscious and rich.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that I turn to time and again. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a favorite in my household. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s always a hit. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful casserole as much as I do.