Why Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Is a 5-Star Dinner

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce coming together in a homestyle casserole. Among the countless versions of this classic comfort food, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole stands out as a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings warmth to any dinner table. This heartwarming dish, inspired by the Dolly Parton chicken stuffing casserole recipe, balances simplicity with flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes like it took hours to make, when in reality, it’s a busy home cook’s dream come true.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

For the casserole:
– 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
– 1 box (6 oz) chicken stuffing mix
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– ¼ cup chicken broth
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Substitution options:
– Use cream of celery instead of mushroom soup
– Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
– Use leftover turkey instead of chicken
– Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness

Kitchen tools needed:
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Large mixing bowl
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wooden spoon
– Aluminum foil

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
– Total time: 50-55 minutes
– Servings: 6-8 people

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Easily

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and well blended.

3. Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the mixture along with the frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Fold everything together until evenly coated.

4. Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions, typically by combining the dry mix with melted butter and hot water.

5. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Top the chicken mixture with the prepared stuffing, making sure to cover the entire surface.

7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

The Dolly Parton chicken stuffing casserole recipe has become legendary for good reason, and following these steps ensures your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will come out perfectly every time.

Nutritional Benefits of This Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe

This hearty casserole offers a good balance of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the stuffing, and various vitamins and minerals from the mixed vegetables. Each serving provides approximately:
– Calories: 380 per serving
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
– Vitamin A: 40% of daily value
– Vitamin C: 15% of daily value
– Calcium: 8% of daily value
– Iron: 10% of daily value

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Lovers

– Cheese Lover’s Version: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before the stuffing layer.
– Herb-Enhanced: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley for a brighter flavor.
– Slow Cooker Option: Prepare in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours instead of baking.
– Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
– Healthier Version: Use low-sodium soups and light sour cream to reduce calories and sodium.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

1. Overmixing the stuffing – This can make it dense and gummy.
2. Using raw chicken – Always pre-cook your chicken to ensure food safety.
3. Skipping the resting time – Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking.
4. Too dry stuffing – Add a bit more broth if it seems too dry.
5. Too much liquid – Drain vegetables properly to prevent a soggy casserole.

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Fresh

– Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap.
– Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
– Meal prep: You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole at Home

There’s something magical about pulling a bubbling hot Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole from the oven – the aroma that fills your kitchen, the anticipation of that first comforting bite, and the knowledge that you’ve created something truly special. This cherished Dolly Parton chicken stuffing casserole recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels like home, no matter where you’re from. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or preparing meals for the week ahead, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction every time.

FAQs About Cooking Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe as it saves time and adds extra flavor. Simply remove the skin and shred or cube the meat.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your soups are gluten-free varieties. Many brands now offer these options.

How can I tell when the casserole is done cooking?
The casserole is done when it’s bubbling around the edges and the stuffing topping is golden brown. A food thermometer inserted in the center should read 165°F.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Certainly! Green beans, broccoli, or cauliflower would make excellent additions. Just make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces and pre-cooked if they’re firmer vegetables.