Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole brings together everything I love about Midwest comfort cooking in one satisfying dish that never fails to fill both bellies and hearts. There’s something magical about that perfect combination of tender chicken nestled in a creamy base, topped with golden, crispy stuffing that makes the whole kitchen smell like Sunday dinner.

I still remember the first time my neighbor Dolly shared this recipe with me during one of those chaotic October evenings when the leaves were turning and everyone seemed to need something warm and dependable on the table. She’d been making this casserole for her own family for decades, and watching her effortlessly layer those simple ingredients while chatting about her grandchildren, I knew this was one of those special recipes that would become a cornerstone in my own kitchen. The way the stuffing gets perfectly golden while the chicken stays incredibly moist underneath is the kind of dish that makes you understand why casseroles became such beloved staples in American homes. Time to get our hands busy and create something that’ll have your family asking for seconds.

What Makes This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole So Special

After years of testing countless casserole variations in my own kitchen, I can confidently say that Dolly’s approach hits every mark that makes a dish truly memorable. This recipe combines time-tested techniques with practical ingredients that most of us already keep stocked in our pantries.

Here’s what makes this casserole a standout:

• Uses everyday pantry staples you likely have on hand – no specialty shopping required
• Comes together in under an hour on busy weeknights when time is precious
• Delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results that work for both family dinners and potluck gatherings
• Adapts easily to dietary preferences and whatever vegetables you have available
• Creates that perfect contrast between creamy interior and crispy golden topping
• Stores beautifully for meal prep and tastes even better as leftovers

The beauty of this recipe lies in its forgiving nature. I’ve made it countless times with slight variations based on what’s in my refrigerator, and it never disappoints. Whether you’re feeding a small family on a Tuesday night or hosting a larger gathering, this casserole scales beautifully and always delivers that comforting satisfaction we all crave.

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each component in this casserole plays a specific role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes every bite satisfying.

Shredded cooked chicken forms the protein foundation and I always choose rotisserie chicken when I’m pressed for time since the seasoning adds extra depth that plain boiled chicken simply can’t match. Cream of chicken soup creates that rich, velvety base that binds everything together while adding savory depth. Sour cream contributes tangy richness and helps achieve that perfectly creamy consistency that makes this casserole so comforting. Chicken broth loosens the mixture just enough to prevent it from becoming too thick while intensifying the overall chicken flavor. Stuffing mix provides that essential crispy topping contrast, and I prefer traditional herb varieties that complement rather than compete with the chicken. Melted butter drizzled over the stuffing ensures that golden-brown finish that makes this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Step 1. I always start by preheating my oven to 350°F and greasing my trusty 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking and ensure easy serving later.

Step 2. Betty’s tip: combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth in a large bowl, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy without any lumps.

Step 3. I’ve learned that spreading this chicken mixture evenly in your prepared dish creates the perfect foundation for even cooking throughout.

Step 4. After years of making this, I prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions but use about 25% less water than called for to prevent that soggy texture that can ruin an otherwise perfect casserole.

Step 5. Through trial and error, I discovered that spooning the stuffing evenly over the chicken layer, then drizzling melted butter across the top, creates that irresistible golden crust we all love.

Step 6. My family prefers when I bake this uncovered for 35-40 minutes, checking that the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbling merrily.

Step 7. The key I discovered is letting the casserole rest for a full 10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set properly for the cleanest, most attractive portions.

Keeping This Casserole Fresh

I typically store leftover Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, where it maintains its delicious flavor and creamy texture beautifully. The covered storage prevents the top from drying out while keeping all those wonderful flavors locked in. Betty’s storage method works well because she always lets the casserole cool completely before covering, which prevents condensation from making the stuffing soggy.

This casserole freezes exceptionally well when you assemble it completely but haven’t baked it yet. I wrap it tightly and store for up to 2 months, making it perfect for those busy weeks when you need dinner ready to go. Betty’s freezing method involves wrapping the unbaked casserole first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.

For the best texture, I reheat individual portions in the microwave with a damp paper towel covering for 1-2 minutes, or reheat larger portions covered with foil at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This gentle reheating preserves that wonderful contrast between the creamy base and the crispy topping that makes this dish so special.

Perfect Partners for This Casserole

• Easy vegetable soup makes a light starter that prepares your palate for the rich casserole without overwhelming it
• Roasted carrots with fresh thyme complement the herb flavors in the stuffing while offering natural sweetness
• Biscuits and gravy casserole transforms dinner into a true comfort food feast when you want to go all-out for special occasions
• Fresh cranberry sauce brings a tart-sweet element that cuts through the richness beautifully, especially during fall and winter months
• Simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides fresh balance and helps cleanse the palate
• Creamy scalloped potatoes create the ultimate comfort food pairing when you want to indulge completely

The key to pairing sides with this hearty casserole is balancing the rich, creamy main dish with lighter, fresher elements that complement rather than compete with those wonderful herb and chicken flavors.

Tips for Best Results

Always bake uncovered to achieve that crispy stuffing topping that makes this dish so special. I drizzle melted butter on top before baking for an extra golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free cream soup. The results taste just as comforting as the original.

For a dairy-free version, replace sour cream with coconut yogurt and use dairy-free condensed soup. This works particularly well if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions.

For a low-sodium version, use no-salt-added broth and soup, then season to taste with fresh herbs instead of salt.

Important Notes

Use pre-cooked chicken since rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience and flavor. Raw chicken can be used but requires longer baking time and may release excess liquid that affects the final texture.

Prevent soggy stuffing by reducing liquid in stuffing mix by 25% and always baking uncovered. This ensures that perfect contrast between creamy interior and crispy topping.

Make ahead by assembling completely and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze for up to 2 months. This makes meal planning so much easier during busy weeks.

For a holiday twist, substitute turkey for chicken and add dried cranberries to the stuffing. This creates a wonderful way to use leftover holiday turkey.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
I recommend assembling the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking and storing it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy stuffing?
To prevent this issue, always use about 25% less liquid than the stuffing package directions call for and never cover the casserole while baking.

Can I substitute the sour cream?
Many home cooks find success with mayonnaise as a direct substitute, or you can use Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and added protein.

How do I know when the casserole is properly done?
Betty’s solution is to look for golden-brown stuffing on top and bubbling around the edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if you want to be precise.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
The best approach I’ve tested is to sauté diced celery, carrots, or frozen peas until tender and fold them into the chicken mixture before adding the stuffing topping.