Description: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a heartwarming, easy-to-make dish that combines the comforting flavors of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of home-cooked love to every bite. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that uses readily available ingredients, making it a staple for busy families and anyone craving a classic, comforting meal.
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
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom, making it easier to serve and clean up afterwards. If you don’t have cooking spray, a light coating of olive oil or any neutral cooking oil will work just as well. Ensuring proper greasing is a simple step that significantly impacts the final outcome.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is where the magic happens! Ensure that the chicken is evenly shredded to distribute the flavor throughout the casserole. Adding the cream of chicken soup provides a creamy base, while the sour cream adds a tangy richness that balances the savory elements. The chicken broth moistens the stuffing and melds all the flavors together. Garlic and onion powder contribute depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Now, season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasonings, as they are crucial for enhancing the flavors of the casserole. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more salt and pepper, but you can’t take it away. If you’re using a stuffing mix that already contains a lot of sodium, you may want to be more conservative with the salt.
Step 4: Add Butter (Optional)
For an extra layer of richness and flavor, incorporate two tablespoons of melted butter into the mixture. The butter will add a luxurious, buttery taste and help to create a golden-brown crust on top of the casserole. This step is optional, but it elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake
Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that the casserole cooks uniformly and that every bite is packed with flavor. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the stuffing from drying out and to help the casserole cook thoroughly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. The removal of the foil allows the top to become beautifully browned and slightly crispy, adding a delightful textural contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The parsley not only adds visual appeal but also complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, reducing food waste and saving you time. The combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. The casserole is endlessly customizable – you can add vegetables, different types of soup, or experiment with various herbs and spices to create your own unique version. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is a bonus, making it a true sensory delight.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole hot, straight from the oven.
- Pair it with a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- For a heartier meal, serve with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole.
- A dollop of cranberry sauce adds a festive touch, especially during the holidays.
- Leftovers can be easily reheated and enjoyed the next day.
Tips:
- For a creamier casserole, use full-fat sour cream and add an extra splash of chicken broth.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or celery to the casserole for added nutrients and flavor.
- To prevent the stuffing from drying out, make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during the first 30 minutes of baking.
- If the top of the casserole is browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly or cover it loosely with foil.
- Experiment with different types of stuffing mix to find your favorite flavor combination.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- If you’re short on time, assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg (varies depending on the stuffing mix and soup used)
Conclusion
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a testament to the power of simple, comforting food. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, loved by generations for its ease of preparation and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this casserole is a guaranteed success that will bring smiles to your table. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly heartwarming meal. This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through the simple act of cooking. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to allow it to come to room temperature slightly. This will ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that if the casserole is very cold, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. Making it ahead of time is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re preparing for a gathering and want to get some of the work done in advance.
Q2: Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute the cream of chicken soup. If you’re looking for a similar creamy texture, cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup works well. For a healthier alternative, you can use a homemade white sauce or béchamel sauce thickened with a bit of cornstarch or flour. To make it, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until it thickens, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg. Another option is to use plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth for a tangier flavor. Keep in mind that the substitution might slightly alter the overall flavor profile, so choose an option that complements the other ingredients in the casserole.
Q3: What kind of chicken is best for this casserole?
A: The best kind of chicken for this casserole is cooked, shredded chicken. This can be leftover cooked chicken from a roast, grilled chicken breasts, or even rotisserie chicken. Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, as it’s already cooked and seasoned. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this recipe, poaching or baking chicken breasts is a simple and healthy option. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and then shred it using two forks or a stand mixer. Avoid using chicken with strong flavors, as it might overpower the other ingredients in the casserole. The key is to have tender, evenly shredded chicken that blends well with the other ingredients.
Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, but it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then wrap it again with aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Before baking, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth to replenish any moisture that might have been lost during freezing. Bake as directed in the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture of the stuffing might change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor should remain delicious.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables to Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a great way to boost its nutritional value and add extra flavor. Some popular choices include peas, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and broccoli. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables, depending on your preference and what you have on hand. If using fresh vegetables, it’s best to sauté them lightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they’re tender when the casserole is baked. Frozen vegetables can be added directly to the mixture without thawing. Canned vegetables should be drained before adding them. Adding about 1 to 2 cups of mixed vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole without significantly altering the cooking time. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite vegetable medley!
