Introduction
If there’s one dish that never fails to warm my heart, it’s Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe 2025. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and savory stuffing into the ultimate comfort food casserole.
» As a chef who’s always seeking dishes that bring people together, this dinner recipe feels like a hug in every bite. I still remember the first time I made a casserole like this—it filled the kitchen with rich, savory aromas that instantly felt like home.
That’s why I can’t wait to share this step-by-step guide with you, complete with substitutions, storage tips, and my personal secrets to making the perfect chicken and stuffing bake.
Let’s get cooking!
👉 What is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
» Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a classic comfort food dish made with layers of tender chicken, creamy soup (like cream of chicken or mushroom), savory chicken broth, and a buttery stuffing topping. It’s baked until golden, bubbly, and full of cozy flavors.
» Think of it as a flavorful one-pan dish that combines chicken and stuffing in the most delicious way—creamy, savory, and oh-so comforting.
👉 Why is it called Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
» The name “Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole” appears to come from the tradition of naming comforting, home-style recipes after beloved relatives or local figures, such as an “Aunt Dolly” or “Grandma Dolly“.
» There is no definitive evidence that the dish is named after Dolly Parton, and recipe sources do not specify its namesake; rather, it may simply be a nod to a classic Southern name often associated with warmth and hospitality.
❤️ Why You’ll Love Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
✅ Quick to prepare with pantry staples
✅ Feeds a family with ease—budget-friendly and filling
✅ Perfect balance of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors
✅ Versatile—customize with veggies, cheese, or different proteins
✅ Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for busy nights
🛠️ Kitchen Equipment Required For this Casserole Recipe
♥ 9×13 baking dish
♥ Mixing bowls
♥ Whisk & wooden spoon/spatula
♥ Measuring cups & spoons
♥ Chef’s knife & cutting board
♥ Aluminum foil
♥ Oven mitts
♥ Serving spoon
👉 Tip: Use a disposable dish if freezing the casserole.
Ingredients For Dolly’s Chicken and & Stuffing Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish together:
♥ 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
♥ 1 box (6 oz) Stove Top stuffing mix (or any brand)
♥ 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
♥ 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (optional, for richness)
♥ 1 ½ cups chicken broth
♥ 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
♥ ½ tsp garlic powder
♥ ½ tsp onion powder
♥ Salt & black pepper to taste
♥ Optional add-ins: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup mixed vegetables
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken & Stuffing Casserole Recipe
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
⏳ Resting Time: 5 minutes
⏲️ Total Time: 1 hour
👥 Servings: 6–8 portions
💲 Estimated Cost: $12–15 (approx.)
👉 Step 1: Prep the Chicken
♥ Shred or cube about 3 cups of cooked chicken. You can use a rotisserie for convenience, poach for tenderness, or roast for more flavor.
👉 Chef Tip: Always let chicken rest before shredding to keep it juicy.
» What type of chicken works best?
Shredded rotisserie chicken or baked chicken breasts are ideal.
👉 Step 2: Make the Stuffing
♥ Prepare 1 box of stuffing mix as directed, but use slightly less liquid so it stays firmer when baked.
👉 Chef Tip: Toast the stuffing for 5 minutes in the oven before topping the casserole if you love a crispy crunch.
👉 Step 3: Mix the Sauce
♥ In a bowl, whisk together 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1–1 ½ cups broth, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper).
👉 Chef Tip: Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and tang.
» How do I make it creamier?
Add a mix of cream of chicken + cream of mushroom soup, or stir in sour cream.
👉 Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
♥ Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer the chicken on the bottom, then pour the creamy sauce evenly over it. Spread the stuffing across the top. Dot with butter or sprinkle cheese for richness.
👉 Chef Tip: Don’t press the stuffing down too hard—keeping it a little loose helps it bake crispier.
👉 Step 5: Bake
♥ Place uncovered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the stuffing is golden brown.
👉 Chef Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil and continue baking.
👉 Step 6: Rest & Serve, and Enjoy!
♥ Now you can remove the casserole from the oven & let it rest for at least 5–10 minutes just before serving. This allows the sauce to set and flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
👉 Chef Tip: Resting also makes it easier to cut and serve neat, square-shaped pieces.
Ingredient Substitutes For Dolly’s Chicken Casserole
» Here are the ingredient substitutions for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole so you can adjust based on what you have in your kitchen:
| Main Ingredient | Substitute Options | Notes/Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Turkey breast, rotisserie chicken, or canned chicken | Pre-cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken works well for quicker prep. |
| Stuffing Mix | Homemade bread crumbs, cornbread, or gluten-free stuffing mix | Adjust seasonings to taste if using plain bread crumbs. |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | Cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or homemade white sauce | Mushroom soup adds earthy flavor; celery soup gives a lighter taste. |
| Cheese (if used) | Mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar | Choose a melting cheese that complements the casserole’s creamy texture. |
| Butter | Olive oil, margarine, or vegan butter | Olive oil gives a slightly different flavor but keeps it moist. |
| Milk or Cream | Half-and-half, coconut milk, or unsweetened almond milk | Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness; adjust seasoning accordingly. |
» Gluten-Free – opt for gluten-free stuffing mix and soups.
» Add Veggies – toss in broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms for a nutrition boost.
» Extra Cheesy – sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking.
» Healthier Twist – swap cream soup with Greek yogurt + chicken broth.
» Turkey Swap – use leftover turkey instead of chicken (great post-holiday meal).
Tips for the Perfect Dolly’s Chicken Casserole Recipe
» Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
» Slightly undercook stuffing before baking to avoid mushiness.
» Add fresh herbs (sage, thyme, parsley) for flavor depth.
» Let casserole rest before slicing—it enhances texture.
🥄Serving Suggestions & Pairings
» Fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette
» Roasted carrots or green beans for added texture
» Buttery dinner rolls or cornbread to complete the meal
» Pairing: Crisp white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water
❄️ Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
» Fridge: You can keep the leftovers in an air-tight container for up to 2 days for best use.
» Freezer: Assemble casserole, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze up to 2 months.
» Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F until heated through; avoid microwaving stuffing to prevent sogginess.
Garnish & Presentation Ideas You Can Try
» Here are some garnish & presentation tips to make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole look as delicious as it tastes:
🌿 Garnish Ideas
» Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or chives on top for color and a fresh aroma.
» Paprika or Smoked Paprika: Lightly dust the top to add color and subtle flavor.
» Crispy Topping: Add extra toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers just before serving for crunch.
» Cheese Finish: A thin layer of shredded cheddar or Parmesan melted on top adds a golden, appetizing finish.
🍽️ Presentation Tips
» Serving Dish: Bake and serve in a rustic 9×13-inch casserole dish or a colorful oven-safe dish for visual appeal.
»Portioning: Scoop into individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a personal touch.
» Layering: Make sure the creamy chicken layer is visible around the edges; it makes the casserole look hearty.
» Plating: Serve with a sprig of rosemary or thyme on the side and a drizzle of olive oil for shine.
Best Alternate Casserole Recipes You Can Try!
If you love Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole but want to try something similar or switch it up:
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Chicken and Mashed Potato Bake
Sausage and Stuffing Casserole
Chicken Alfredo Casserole
» Copycat Starbucks Spicy Falafel Pocket Recipe
» Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone sauce
» Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 Servings)
♥ Calories: 420
♥ Protein: 28g
♥ Carbs: 32g
♥ Fat: 18g
♥ Fiber: 2g
♥ Sodium: 860mg
(Values may vary depending on substitutions used.)
Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare stuffing mix as directed.
- Mix soup, milk, and seasonings; add shredded chicken.
- Spread mixture in baking dish, top with stuffing.
- Bake 40–45 minutes until golden.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add veggies like broccoli or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Substitute cream of mushroom for a flavor twist.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or chives on top for color and a fresh aroma.
- Bake and serve in a rustic 9x13-inch casserole dish or a colorful oven-safe dish for visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free cream soups, or make a homemade sauce and bread-based stuffing with gluten-free bread.
How do I prevent soggy stuffing?
Use slightly less liquid when preparing stuffing, and bake uncovered. Toasting the stuffing briefly before topping also helps maintain a crunchy texture.
Can I use cheese in this casserole?
Definitely! Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend on top for a gooey, golden finish during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, or peas are great additions. Pre-cook or sauté them slightly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
How do I make the casserole creamier?
Add a bit of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or an extra can of cream of chicken/mushroom soup to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey makes a delicious variation, especially after the holidays. Substitute in equal amounts and follow the same assembly and baking steps.
My Final Conclusion
And there you have it—Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe 2025, the ultimate dish for cozy family dinners!
As a chef, I believe comfort food isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating memories. This casserole has the power to transform a simple weeknight meal into something special, shared with laughter and warmth.
Whether you’re making it for Sunday supper or a holiday gathering, this dish promises full hearts and happy plates. So, tie on your apron, preheat the oven, and let Dolly’s casserole become a new favorite at your table. If you have any thoughts about this chicken casserole dinner recipe, then write to me in the comment section below! – I’d love to hear from you! Till then,
Happy Cooking!
