Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a delightful dish that encapsulates warmth and comfort in every bite. This hearty casserole is woven with tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce that melds together beautifully during the baking process. Imagine the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each forkful offers a satisfying crunch from the golden top layer, followed by the moist and flavorful filling underneath. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite — it’s truly worth making for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole stand out? First and foremost, its easy prep ensures you’ll spend minimal time in the kitchen while still delivering a satisfying meal. This dish is incredibly family-friendly, allowing you to cater to even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner or preparing for a holiday gathering, it’s a quick, comforting classic that will please everyone at the table. With minimal ingredients needed, you’re just a few steps away from serving a delightful, hearty meal.
Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
To create Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped: Juicy, tender chicken serves as the heart of this dish.
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (chicken or herb): Light and fluffy, it adds texture and flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Rich and savory, it infuses moisture and depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and a satisfying buttery flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Creamy and thick, it binds the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Offers tanginess and creaminess, enhancing overall taste.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Fresh and crunchy, it adds a wonderful texture.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Sweet and aromatic, it deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Earthy and savory, it amplifies the overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: A hint of herbaceousness adds warmth.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13" baking dish to ensure easy removal after baking.
Sauté celery and onion: In a skillet, heat a bit of butter over medium heat, then add the chopped celery and diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until soft and fragrant.
Combine stuffing mix: In a large bowl, mix the stuffing mix with chicken broth and melted butter. Let it soak for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Prepare the creamy chicken mixture: In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir in the sautéed celery and onion, then fold in the chopped chicken until well mixed.
Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the soaked stuffing mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the stuffing, then top with the remaining stuffing.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving warm.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is simple with a few chef’s secrets. For added moisture, consider using rotisserie chicken — it’s convenient and packed with flavor. You can customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like dried cranberries or pecans for a unique twist. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use whole-grain stuffing mix. Finally, allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When serving Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, consider pairing it with vibrant green sides such as sautéed green beans or a fresh spinach salad to balance the richness of the dish. A side of roasted vegetables adds a delightful crunch and nutritional boost. For an extra touch of comfort, offer warm biscuit rolls or crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness. A light, citrus-infused drink like lemonade or iced tea can also complement the meal beautifully, providing refreshment alongside the warmth of the casserole.
Nutritional Information
This casserole not only satisfies taste buds but also offers a relatively balanced meal option within a comforting dish. Each serving has approximately 350 calories, with a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbs from the stuffing mix. Moderate levels of fats come from the butter and cream of chicken soup, making it a hearty but not overly indulgent option. Of course, feel free to adjust portion sizes or swaps based on dietary needs for a healthier alternative that still feels indulgent.
Storing Tips & Variations for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. To store, place the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it can be kept for up to 3 days. It also freezes exceptionally well; simply wrap portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For an added twist, try swapping the chicken for turkey in the following day’s leftovers for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a warm invitation to create cherished family memories around the dinner table. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The comforting blend of flavors and textures will surely make this dish a favorite in your home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and let this casserole bring warmth and satisfaction to your next meal!
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken will work perfectly in this casserole, saving you time and effort.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
3. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, water or vegetable broth can be a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
4. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole should be golden on top and bubbly around the edges. You can check that the center is hot by inserting a knife in the middle; if it comes out hot to the touch, it’s ready!
5. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or even mushrooms for a nutritious boost and added flavor.
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped Juicy, tender chicken serves as the heart of this dish.
- 1 box stuffing mix (chicken or herb) Light and fluffy, it adds texture and flavor.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth Rich and savory, it infuses moisture and depth.
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted Provides richness and a satisfying buttery flavor.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Creamy and thick, it binds the ingredients together.
- 0.5 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt Offers tanginess and creaminess.
- 1 cup celery, chopped Fresh and crunchy, it adds a wonderful texture.
- 1 small onion, finely diced Sweet and aromatic, it deepens the flavor profile.
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder Earthy and savory, it amplifies the overall taste.
- 0.5 tsp dried thyme A hint of herbaceousness adds warmth.
- 1 tbl fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13" baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat a bit of butter over medium heat, then add the chopped celery and diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until soft and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix the stuffing mix with chicken broth and melted butter. Let it soak for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir in the sautéed celery and onion, then fold in the chopped chicken until well mixed.
- Spread half of the soaked stuffing mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the stuffing, then top with the remaining stuffing.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
- If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving warm.