Introduction:

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the heart quite like Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Creamy, savory, and bubbling with flavor, this Southern-style casserole is the kind of dish you serve when you want to feed the soul and the stomach. Inspired by country kitchens and Dolly Parton-style home cooking, this recipe brings together tender chicken, rich cream of soups, and buttery stuffing in one cozy, irresistible bake.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, holiday potluck, or simply craving something satisfying and easy, this casserole delivers every time. It’s the kind of dish that makes people go back for seconds — and ask for the recipe before they leave.

📝 Ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery or mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
½ cup chicken broth (more if needed for moisture)

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stuffing Topping:

1 (6 oz) box of stuffing mix (like Stove Top, chicken or cornbread flavor)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup warm water or more broth (to moisten stuffing)

👩‍🍳 Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery (or mushroom) soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and seasonings. Stir until creamy and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing

In a separate bowl, mix the dry stuffing mix with the melted butter and warm water (or broth) until the bread is moist but not soggy. Let it sit a few minutes to absorb liquid.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Top with the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing lightly into place but don’t pack it down too tightly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole firm up and makes it easier to slice and serve.

🔄 Variation:

Add Veggies: Mix in 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, peas, or sautéed mushrooms to the chicken layer.
Cheesy Version: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the filling.
Turkey Swap: Great with leftover turkey instead of chicken – perfect for post-Thanksgiving meals.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream soups and a gluten-free stuffing mix.

🍳 Cooking Note:

Using rotisserie chicken is a major time saver and adds a depth of flavor. Be sure the stuffing is moist but not soggy before topping the casserole — this ensures a perfect golden, slightly crisp finish.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Pair with green beans, collard greens, or a crisp garden salad.
Serve alongside cranberry sauce or homemade applesauce for a holiday vibe.
A warm biscuit or roll on the side makes it even more comforting.

Great with sweet tea or a tall glass of cold milk.

💡 Tips:

Want a creamier filling? Add an extra ¼ cup of sour cream or a splash more broth.
Make ahead! Assemble the day before and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Use homemade stuffing if you prefer – just moisten it well before layering.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a little fresh color on top.

⏱️ Prep Time:

15 minutes

⏲️ Cooking Time:

35–40 minutes

⌛ Total Time:

55 minutes

🧪 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – serves 8):

Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 860mg

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
A: Yes! Any cooked, shredded chicken works — rotisserie, poached, grilled, or roasted.

Q: Can I use a different soup?
A: You can substitute one of the soups with cream of mushroom, cream of onion, or cream of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Definitely! Use a larger pan or two casserole dishes — perfect for feeding a crowd.

📝 Conclusion:

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of dish that’s passed down from one generation to the next — rich with flavor, memories, and that down-home Southern charm. With its creamy filling and savory stuffing topping, it’s everything you want in a cozy casserole and more.

Simple to make, endlessly versatile, and loved by all ages, this casserole is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight comfort. Just like Dolly herself, this recipe is full of heart, flavor, and unforgettable warmth. 💛