Dolly's Comfort Food Dinner

This hearty chicken and stuffing casserole has been my ultimate go-to recipe for years whenever I need a comforting meal that satisfies the whole family. The creamy chicken layer topped with buttery stuffing creates the perfect combination that reminds me of holiday dinners but is simple enough for any weeknight.

I first made this casserole during a particularly hectic holiday season when I needed something that felt special but required minimal effort. My family raved about it so much that it quickly became our traditional post-holiday meal for using up leftover turkey or chicken.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: 3 cups shredded or cubed provides the protein foundation perfect for using rotisserie chicken or leftovers
• Cream of chicken soup: 1 can creates a rich savory base without complicated sauce making
• Cream of celery or mushroom soup: 1 can adds depth and complexity to the creamy layer
• Sour cream: ¾ cup brings tangy richness that balances the dish
• Chicken broth: ½ cup plus more if needed moistens the stuffing perfectly
• Stove Top stuffing mix: 6 oz box chicken flavor creates that irresistible golden topping
• Butter: 4 tablespoons melted enriches the stuffing layer with flavor
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon provides aromatic depth without the work of fresh garlic
• Onion powder: ½ teaspoon adds savory notes throughout the dish
• Salt and pepper: to taste always adjust based on your preference and the sodium in your broth
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup optional creates an amazing melty layer between chicken and stuffing
• Fresh parsley: chopped brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking. This temperature creates the perfect environment for the casserole to bubble while developing a golden crust.

Prepare the Stuffing:

Mix the dry stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth in a medium bowl. The key is moistening the stuffing just enough that it's hydrated but not soggy. You want it to maintain some texture as it bakes. If it seems too dry add an extra tablespoon of broth at a time.

Make the Chicken Mixture:

Combine cream of chicken soup cream of celery soup sour cream and seasonings in a large bowl stirring until smooth. Fold in the cooked chicken ensuring every piece gets coated in the creamy mixture. This creates the rich base of your casserole.

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish using a spatula to create a level surface. If using cheese sprinkle it evenly across the chicken layer. Then carefully spoon the stuffing mixture over the top covering the entire surface for that perfect golden crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Place your casserole in the preheated oven uncovered and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You'll know it's done when the edges are bubbling and the stuffing top has turned a beautiful golden brown. The uncovered bake ensures that crispy stuffing texture we all love.

Garnish and Serve:

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving which helps it set slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before bringing to the table for a pop of color and fresh flavor that balances the richness.

Bookmark

The cream soups are really the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried to make a "healthier" version with a homemade sauce but my family unanimously voted to go back to this original version. Sometimes classic comfort food just shouldnt be messed with.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and actually benefits from being made in advance. You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking just cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. The flavors meld beautifully when given time to rest together.

Clever Substitutions

Dont feel limited to chicken in this versatile recipe. Turkey works beautifully especially after Thanksgiving when you have leftovers. For a vegetarian version substitute the chicken with 3 cups of roasted vegetables like cauliflower broccoli and carrots and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option with added protein or use gluten free stuffing mix to accommodate dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

While this casserole is a complete meal on its own a simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a fresh counterpoint to the rich casserole. For a more substantial meal serve with cranberry sauce on the side which adds a sweet tart element that complements the savory flavors beautifully. If serving for a holiday meal add green beans almondine or roasted Brussels sprouts to round out the table with vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. If using a microwave cover loosely and heat on 70 percent power stirring gently halfway through to ensure even heating. The casserole also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Questions Answered About This Recipe

→ Can I make Dolly's Chicken and Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking, and you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.

→ What can I substitute for the cream soups?

If you prefer not to use canned soups, you can make a homemade cream sauce using 4 tablespoons butter, 4 tablespoons flour, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup milk. Cook the butter and flour together to form a roux, then slowly add liquids while whisking until thick and creamy.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Prepare it completely but don't bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time if still cold.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the top stuffing layer is golden brown and crispy, and the edges are bubbling. If you insert a knife in the center, it should come out hot to the touch, indicating the inside is thoroughly heated.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken and stuffing casserole?

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides like steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, a simple green salad, or cranberry sauce. The casserole is quite filling, so simple vegetable sides work best to balance the meal.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Mix in 1-2 cups of cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, broccoli, or green beans to the chicken layer for added nutrition and flavor. Frozen vegetables work well too - just thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.