There’s just something magical about a warm, bubbling casserole at the end of a long day. And when that casserole is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, well… let’s just say it feels like a big ol’ Southern hug straight from the oven.
I first stumbled across a version of this recipe years ago at a holiday potluck back in Texas. A woman named Dolly (yes, really!) showed up with this golden, gooey masterpiece that disappeared before anyone could ask for seconds. I begged her for the recipe—and thank goodness she was the sharing type. It’s been in my dinner rotation ever since, especially on chilly evenings or when the family’s in need of some serious comfort food.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Quick to prep – Only 15 minutes of hands-on time. You can even assemble it the night before.
- Uses pantry staples – Canned soup, stuffing mix, rotisserie chicken? Easy.
- Customizable – Add peas, cheese, or even leftover turkey.
- Crowd-pleasing – Picky kids? Grumpy husbands? Everyone asks for seconds.
What Does Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Taste Like?
Imagine creamy chicken gravy spooned over soft, savory stuffing, then baked until golden and bubbling. It’s rich and hearty without being too heavy. The sour cream gives it that little tang, while the herbs and spices bring just the right warmth. Optional cheddar adds a melty richness, and peas give it a pop of texture (and color—because we all know casseroles love to lean beige!).
What You’ll Need for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Let’s talk about the heart and soul of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole—the ingredients that make this cozy, crave-worthy dish something you’ll keep coming back to week after week.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it relies on pantry staples and easy-to-find grocery items, which means you can throw it together without a big fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone just trying to get dinner on the table, these ingredients keep it stress-free, delicious, and family-approved.
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this classic casserole to life:
Cooked, shredded chicken (3 cups):
Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and is my go-to when I’m short on time. It’s juicy, flavorful, and already cooked, so it cuts prep time down to just a few minutes. You can also use leftover baked chicken or even poached chicken breasts if you have them on hand. If you enjoy slow cooker meals, you might also love my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew—another great way to batch cook chicken for recipes like this.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz):
This creamy base adds richness and binds all the layers together. It’s the classic comfort ingredient in so many Southern-style casseroles. If you prefer homemade versions, you can substitute with a made-from-scratch cream soup, but for busy weeknights, canned works just fine.
Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz):
Adding depth and a slightly earthy flavor, this balances out the cream of chicken. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, feel free to swap it with cream of celery or even another can of cream of chicken for a milder flavor profile.
Sour cream (1 cup):
This adds a subtle tang and boosts creaminess. If you’re trying to lighten it up a bit, you can use plain Greek yogurt—but the sour cream gives it that nostalgic flavor you remember from your grandmother’s casseroles.
Milk (½ cup):
Use whatever milk you have on hand—whole milk is ideal for richness, but 2% or even evaporated milk will work. If you’re looking for something extra indulgent, try half-and-half instead.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon) and garlic powder (1 teaspoon):
These spices bring a gentle savory background to the dish. No chopping necessary—just shake and stir.
Dried thyme (½ teaspoon):
Just enough to add a hint of herbaceous warmth without overpowering the dish. You could also use Italian seasoning if that’s what you have in your spice drawer.
Salt (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (½ teaspoon):
Always season to taste—especially if your chicken or stuffing mix is already seasoned. A little salt helps all the flavors pop.
Stuffing mix (1 box, 6 oz):
This is the signature topping that gives Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole its cozy, down-home vibe. I personally love using classic Stove Top stuffing because it’s reliable and packed with herbs. But feel free to use your favorite brand or even leftover homemade stuffing.
Melted butter (½ cup):
You’ll mix this with the stuffing to keep it moist and flavorful. Don’t skip this step—it helps the top get golden and crispy.
Chicken broth (1½ cups):
Adds moisture to the stuffing and ties all the savory layers together. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Optional but delicious:
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup):
For that gooey, melty richness that takes this casserole to the next level. Add it on top of the stuffing before baking for a golden, cheesy finish. - Frozen peas (½ cup):
These add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color that makes the dish feel more complete. You can stir them into the chicken mixture or scatter them on top before baking.
This list might look long, but I promise—it’s one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make. If you love dishes like this that are packed with flavor but don’t require a long prep time, you might also enjoy my comforting Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup or my crowd-pleasing Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
By gathering these simple, flavorful ingredients, you’re already halfway to making a dinner that feels like a warm hug in a baking dish.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole (Step-by-Step)
If there’s one thing I love about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it’s how effortlessly it comes together. This isn’t one of those “fussy” recipes with 20 bowls and obscure ingredients. It’s a true one-dish wonder that makes dinner feel like a celebration, even on a Tuesday.
Below, I’ll walk you through each step with the kind of clarity that makes this recipe feel like second nature. Whether it’s your first time making a casserole or you’re just looking for something dependable to serve a hungry crew, this guide will have you covered from start to finish.
Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare the dish
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). That way, by the time you’re done assembling your ingredients, the oven is hot and ready.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. I’ve used both, and either will keep the casserole from sticking—and help with cleanup later (a big win in my book!).
Step 2: Mix the creamy chicken base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with another cream soup if you prefer)
- 1 cup of sour cream
- ½ cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
Mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. It should look thick, creamy, and smell like pure comfort. This base is what gives Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that stick-to-your-ribs richness we all crave.
Note: If you’re using leftover chicken from another recipe like Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes, this is a great way to give it new life.
Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture into your baking dish
Spoon the creamy chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of your spoon to spread it out evenly. Try to get it as level as possible so every bite bakes uniformly—no dry corners or soggy middles here.
Step 4: Prepare the stuffing topping
In a separate medium bowl, combine:
- 1 box (6 oz) of stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1½ cups chicken broth
Stir until the stuffing is fully moistened and everything is evenly mixed. The butter adds richness while the broth keeps it fluffy and moist.
If you’ve made stuffing from scratch before, you know how important that balance is. We’re going for tender but not soggy, golden but not dry.
Step 5: Layer the stuffing over the chicken
Now gently spoon the stuffing mixture on top of the creamy chicken layer in your baking dish. Don’t press it down—just spread it gently so it forms a rustic, textured topping.
This is where Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole really earns its comforting charm. That top layer will bake into a golden, buttery crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling underneath.
Step 6: Add optional cheese and peas
If you’re feeling indulgent (and why not?), sprinkle:
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup of frozen peas
These add flavor, texture, and just a bit of color. The cheese will melt into gooey pockets of joy, while the peas add a little freshness to balance the richness. You can mix them into the filling or layer them on top—it’s flexible.
Looking for other casserole-style meals that combine creamy comfort with easy veggies? Check out my Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken for another fuss-free winner.
Step 7: Bake to bubbly, golden perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes.
You’re looking for a bubbly edge and a slightly golden top. If the stuffing starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last 10 minutes. But honestly, I rarely need to.
Step 7: Bake to bubbly, golden perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes.
You’re looking for a bubbly edge and a slightly golden top. If the stuffing starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last 10 minutes. But honestly, I rarely need to.
Final Notes
That’s it! From fridge to table in under an hour, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers everything you want in a comfort meal. It’s rich without being too heavy, easy enough for a weeknight, and special enough for a Sunday supper.
And if your family is anything like mine, don’t be surprised if they scrape the dish clean and ask when you’re making it again.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey from the holidays.
- Want it extra creamy? Swap milk for half-and-half or stir in an extra dollop of sour cream.
- Make it ahead. Assemble the whole thing up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. Bake as usual when ready.
- Too dry? Add a splash more broth or milk before baking next time. Some stuffing mixes soak up more than others.
- Need a veggie boost? Frozen corn or green beans work just as well as peas.
Storage and Leftovers
If you somehow don’t polish it off in one sitting:
- Fridge: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge.
- To reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave single servings.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free stuffing mix and soups.
What’s the best stuffing mix to use?
Stove Top is classic, but any boxed mix will work. You can even use leftover homemade stuffing.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or two 9x13s. Great for feeding a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or trying to coax your picky eaters to the table, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a tried-and-true winner. It’s everything we love in a comfort food dish—rich, creamy, and full of heart.
And if you’re like me and grew up with casseroles as a love language, this one might just take you back to those sweet, simple moments gathered around the kitchen table.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meals.
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Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: The Best Cozy Dinner
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or holiday feasts. This creamy, hearty casserole combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich soups, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with another cream soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 (6-ounce) box of stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together shredded chicken, both cans of soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. In another bowl, combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Stir well and spread it evenly over the chicken layer. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
6. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize the casserole with optional ingredients like peas or shredded cheese.
If you want to make the casserole creamier, consider adding extra sour cream or using half-and-half instead of milk.
If preparing ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Potluck
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, stuffing casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, holiday recipe
