Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers comfort and flavor with minimal effort. This simple recipe combines tender chicken with savory stuffing for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. For more delicious chicken dinners, try Monterey Chicken Is A Dinner The Whole Family Will Love or explore other comforting options like Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Are Next Level Comfort Food.

Ingredients

This comforting Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy sauce and crispy seasoned stuffing topping for the ultimate Southern comfort food experience.

• 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
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Timing

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

Context: Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its simple layering technique.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

For extra flavor, you can lightly brown the chicken in a skillet with a tablespoon of oil for 2-3 minutes per side before assembling the casserole. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.

Step 2 — Make the Creamy Soup Base

In a medium bowl, combine one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup with one 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of celery soup. Do not add water or milk as directed on the can—use the soup straight from the can for a rich, thick sauce.

For a lighter version, you can use low-sodium or “healthy request” condensed soup varieties. Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream to make the base extra creamy and tangy.

Step 3 — Prepare the Stuffing Mix

Empty one 6-ounce box of seasoned dry stuffing mix (like Stove Top) into a separate bowl. Pour 1/2 cup (1 stick) of melted unsalted butter over the dry stuffing and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.

If you prefer a moister stuffing layer, you can add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the butter mixture. Using salted butter? Reduce any additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.

Step 4 — Assemble the Casserole Layers

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Spread the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken, covering it completely.

Sprinkle the butter-coated stuffing mix evenly over the soup layer. For a golden, crispy topping, do not press the stuffing down—let it sit loosely on top.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown and crispy on top.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear. The casserole should be bubbly around the edges. If the stuffing browns too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil.

Step 6 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Dollys 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. This comforting casserole pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, a simple garden salad, or roasted carrots.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey instead of chicken — Leaner protein with a similar texture and savory flavor profile that works beautifully with stuffing.
• Cauliflower rice stuffing — Lower-carb alternative that still provides a satisfying texture while absorbing the casserole flavors.
• Gluten-free bread cubes — Perfect swap for traditional stuffing that maintains the classic texture without gluten.
• Dairy-free cream soup — Use coconut milk or cashew cream-based soups for a rich, creamy texture without dairy.
• Low-sodium broth — Reduces sodium content significantly while still providing the essential savory base for your Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.
• Quinoa stuffing — Higher protein, gluten-free alternative that adds nutty flavor and extra nutrition.
• Greek yogurt instead of cream soup — Lighter, protein-packed option that still creates a creamy sauce for the casserole.
• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth — Plant-based alternative that works well for vegetarian versions while keeping the savory notes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this comforting Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners where a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish is needed.
• For a cozy weeknight meal, plate with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered corn.
• Enhance presentation by garnishing with fresh parsley and serving in a decorative baking dish.
• Accompany with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce from the casserole.

This Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is versatile enough for both casual family dinners and special occasions, making it a reliable favorite.

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 texture.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken until it’s tough. Fix: Use a meat thermometer and pull the casserole at 165°F (74°C).
• Mistake: Skipping the step to season the chicken layers. Fix: Lightly salt and pepper each chicken layer for balanced flavor throughout.
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 10 minutes so the juices redistribute.
• Mistake: Using a shallow baking dish that causes overflow. Fix: Choose a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish to contain all ingredients safely.
• Mistake: Adding too much liquid, making the stuffing soggy. Fix: Follow the broth-to-stuffing ratio closely—usually 1 ½ cups liquid per 6 oz mix.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, burning the top. Fix: Cover with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to brown.
• Mistake: Forgetting to grease the baking dish. Fix: Lightly coat the dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
• Mistake: Using low-moisture chicken breasts without adjusting. Fix: Opt for thighs or brine breasts beforehand to keep meat juicy.
• Mistake: Overmixing the stuffing, making it dense. Fix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients until just combined for a fluffy result.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Dollys 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: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave until steaming hot.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole reaches a safe temperature of 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. We hope you love this easy, satisfying meal! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more delicious casserole ideas, check out our Fajita Chicken Casserole Bake Recipe and don’t forget to subscribe for new recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of stuffing mix for Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

Yes, you can use any seasoned dry stuffing mix. The flavor of Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will vary slightly depending on your choice. Cornbread or herb-seasoned mixes work particularly well.

How can I prevent the stuffing from drying out while baking?

Ensure the chicken broth and cream soup mixture is evenly distributed over the stuffing layer. Covering the Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with foil for the first part of baking helps lock in moisture. Check for doneness before the final uncovered bake.

Can I prepare Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow a few extra minutes in the oven since it will be going in cold. This makes Dollys Chicken and Stuffing Casserole perfect for easy meal prep.