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Ah, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole—the mere mention of it brings a warm rush of nostalgia, doesn’t it? I still remember the first time I stumbled upon this heartwarming dish during a chilly autumn gathering at a friend’s house. The kitchen was filled with the intoxicating aroma of rosemary, savory chicken, and buttery stuffing. You could almost hear the sound of laughter and chatter as families gathered around the table, plates piled high with this sumptuous casserole. The comfort it brings is undeniable, transforming any meal into a cozy feast. With each forkful, you savor the luscious layers—tender chicken enveloped in creamy goodness, all blanketed by fluffy stuffing. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll swoon just like I did.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless to Prepare: With minimal prep and just one baking dish to clean, this is a no-fuss recipe you’ll adore!
- Quick Bake Time: In just about 35 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal—perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Crowd-Pleasing Delight: A hearty dish loved by kids and adults alike; it’s bound to create smiles at your table.
- Customizable: With optional veggies and flavors, it’s easy to tweak this dish based on seasonal ingredients or your pantry’s offerings.
- Comfort in Every Bite: It wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, making every plate feel like a hug.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience and maximum flavor!
- 1 box stuffing mix: Choose a flavor you love; it forms the delightful base of this casserole.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess—an essential for binding all the ingredients together.
- 1 cup chicken broth: To enhance the flavor and keep everything moist and delicious.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional): A colorful way to sneak in some nutrients with minimal effort.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A sprinkle of this brings the aroma to life—who can resist the smell of garlic?
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: For that savory backbone that complements the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Elevate the flavors to your liking—don’t be shy; season it well!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional): A golden topping that adds an extra layer of indulgence if you choose to indulge.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, the anticipation builds—this cozy dish is just moments away!
2. Mix it up
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the savory scents waft through your kitchen as everything comes together beautifully—stir gently to avoid breaking up the stuffing too much.
3. Layer it in
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The sight of the colorful medley just waiting to be baked is enough to make your mouth water!
4. Cheese it up
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired. Watch as the cheese adds an enticing golden hue while it bakes—total comfort visualized.
5. Bake to perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and the top is golden. The aroma will weave its way into every corner of your home, beckoning loved ones to gather.
6. Settle down
Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve. The layers will set a bit, making it easier to scoop out that first lovely serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use leftovers: This is a perfect way to use up leftover chicken from last night’s dinner.
- Mix it up: Try different stuffing flavors, like herb or cornbread, for varied tastes.
- Don’t over mix: Gently fold the ingredients together to keep the stuffing fluffy.
Flavor Variations
- Swap out the mixed veggies for your favorite seasonal produce—for a spring twist, try asparagus or peas!
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Experiment with herbs—dill, thyme, or parsley can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For drinks, a lightly chilled white wine or a cozy apple cider might just hit the spot—perfect for a family feast or a potluck gathering.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the casserole the night before! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. It’s good for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator, making it a perfect option for meal prepping.
Leftovers
Got leftovers? Flavor up your lunch by turning it into wraps or scoop it into a baked potato for a comforting twist.
Freezing
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating
Best reheated in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover it to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover turkey from a holiday, it’s a fantastic substitute.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can use any cream soup, like cream of mushroom—totally adaptable!
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors and textures are appealing to kids; they love the cheesy and comforting elements.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free stuffing mixes and soups for a satisfying swap.
Final Thoughts
As I take a moment to reflect on Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, I can’t help but feel grateful for the warmth it brings to our table. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a bundle of memories and love, something to gather around and share with those closest to you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and take a cozy trip to your kitchen, where comfort food awaits. You won’t just be filling bellies; you’ll be creating moments that linger long after the last bite. Enjoy every delicious moment!
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.