Dolly’s Chicken Stuffing Casserole: 5 Comforting Secrets

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate—hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I made it; I had just come home from a long day and wanted something that felt like home. This casserole was the answer! The combination of tender chicken and savory stuffing, all baked together, creates a deliciously cozy meal that my family just adores.

What I love most about Dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole is how it brings everyone together at the dinner table. It’s one of those meals that you can whip up quickly on a busy weeknight or serve at a family gathering and everyone will rave about it. Plus, it’s versatile! You can switch up the vegetables or even add some herbs, but trust me—this classic version is a winner every time. So, if you’re looking for a dish that will fill your belly and warm your heart, you’ve gotta try this one!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for this; it saves time and adds amazing flavor!
• 1 can cream of chicken soup – This adds creaminess and richness that makes the dish so comforting.
• 1 cup sour cream – It brings a tangy touch and helps keep everything moist and delicious.
• 1 cup chicken broth – This is key for flavor; it ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
• 1 package stuffing mix – You can use your favorite brand; it’s the base that makes this casserole so hearty!
• 1/2 cup butter, melted – This adds richness to the stuffing and helps it crisp up in the oven.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas and carrots) – Feel free to use frozen! They add color and nutrition, and who doesn’t love a bit of veggie goodness?

How to Prepare dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown top. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a casserole that hasn’t had the right start!

Step 2: Combine the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, toss together your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. I like to start with the soup and broth to create a nice creamy base, then add in the chicken and sour cream. Just give it a good stir until everything is well combined. You want to make sure each piece of chicken is coated in that delicious mixture—yum!

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing

Now, grab another bowl for the stuffing mix! Pour the stuffing into the bowl and drizzle in the melted butter. Mix it all together until the stuffing is evenly coated and slightly clumpy. This is where the magic happens; it should feel moist but not soggy. You want that perfect texture that’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Alright, we’re almost there! Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. I like to use a spatula to make sure it’s nice and even. Then, take your stuffing mixture and sprinkle it on top, covering the chicken completely. Don’t be shy with it—this is what makes it so hearty and comforting!

Step 5: Baking Instructions

Pop that dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbling around the edges, and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. That’s the sign of pure comfort food perfection, my friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare – With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have this casserole in the oven in no time!
• Comforting and filling – It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a cozy meal.
• Great for leftovers – This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
• Versatile – Feel free to mix in different vegetables or herbs; it’s a great way to use up whatever you have on hand, and it always tastes amazing!
• Family-friendly – Even the pickiest eaters will adore this dish; it’s hard to resist that delicious combination of chicken and stuffing!

Tips for Success

• Use leftover chicken – This is a great way to save time! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly and adds tons of flavor.
• Try different soups – If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken soup, don’t worry! Cream of mushroom or even a cream of celery can work beautifully, giving a different twist to the flavor.
• Boost the flavor – Adding your favorite herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can really elevate this dish. Just sprinkle them in when mixing the chicken ingredients for a fresh taste!
• Make it cheesy – For a cheesy version, throw in some shredded cheese into the chicken mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking. Who can resist that melty goodness?
• Customize the veggies – Feel free to mix in any vegetables you love or have on hand. Broccoli, corn, or green beans all work great in this casserole!
• Don’t skip the greasing – Make sure to grease your baking dish well to avoid sticking. It’ll make serving so much easier and keep that golden crust intact!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of Dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole! Each serving of this hearty dish packs a punch, making it not just delicious, but also fairly balanced. Here’s what you can typically expect per serving:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredient use and can vary depending on the specific brands you choose. But overall, it’s a comforting meal that satisfies while still keeping you energized. Perfect for busy nights when you need a little extra love on your plate!

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! While I adore using chicken for Dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole, you can easily swap it out for turkey if you have some leftover from the holidays. It’ll give a slightly different flavor but is just as comforting. You could also use cooked pork or even shredded beef! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the moisture content of the meat you choose, so always check to make sure everything is heated through.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let your casserole cool down a bit, then transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Just place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it should last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to dive back in, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until heated through. Easy peasy!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can assemble it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be going into the oven cold. Alternatively, you could bake it, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for later. Just reheat as mentioned before! This is one of those meals that just gets better with time!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Dolly’s chicken stuffing casserole, there are so many delicious options to pair it with! I absolutely love to complement this hearty dish with a fresh, crisp salad—something light to balance out the richness of the casserole. A simple mixed greens salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette is perfect; it adds a refreshing crunch that just works so well.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit warmer, roasted or steamed vegetables are fantastic sides! I recommend some buttery green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts; they add a lovely touch of color and nutrition to your meal. Plus, the slight char from roasting brings out the veggies’ natural sweetness, which is a nice contrast to the savory casserole.

And let’s not forget about bread! A crusty loaf or some warm dinner rolls on the side can really elevate the meal. You can use the bread to scoop up those delicious bites of casserole—yum! If you want to keep it simple, even some garlic bread pairs perfectly with this comforting dish.

Finally, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not serve it with a side of cranberry sauce? The tartness is a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken stuffing casserole, and it gives that homey holiday vibe any time of year. Whatever you choose, these pairings will make your meal even more satisfying and enjoyable! Happy feasting!

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