Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Did you know that chicken casseroles rank among the top 3 most searched comfort food recipes, with over 2.5 million searches monthly? This isn’t just another dinner option – it’s a culinary game-changer that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary family feast. Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole recipe challenges the belief that comfort food can’t be both indulgent and manageable, delivering restaurant-quality flavors right from your kitchen.

This beloved recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned stuffing, creating layers of flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole offers the perfect balance of convenience and taste that busy home cooks desperately need.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Layer:

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Stuffing Layer:

• 1 box (6 oz) instant stuffing mix (Stove Top works perfectly)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Substitution Options: Replace chicken breasts with turkey, swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken soup, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes

This recipe delivers exceptional results in just over an hour – that’s 25% faster than traditional layered casseroles that require pre-cooking multiple components. The streamlined approach means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with loved ones.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking it through – it will finish in the oven. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Create the Stuffing Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the diced onion and celery for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the stuffing mix and cranberries. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid fully.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and onion soup mix until smooth and well combined. This creamy base will keep your casserole moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.

Step 4: Layer Your Casserole

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the prepared stuffing evenly across the bottom. Layer the seasoned chicken pieces over the stuffing, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining stuffing and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 8):

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 890mg

This hearty casserole provides 56% of your daily protein needs while delivering essential B vitamins and selenium. The combination of lean protein and complex carbohydrates makes it a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform this comfort classic into a nutritional powerhouse with these simple swaps:

Reduce Calories: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the sour cream and mayonnaise, cutting 120 calories per serving while adding probiotics and extra protein.

Increase Fiber: Mix in 1 cup of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the stuffing layer for added nutrients and texture.

Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth, reduce the onion soup mix by half, and season with fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and parsley.

Gluten-Free Option: Replace traditional stuffing with gluten-free bread cubes seasoned with poultry seasoning, or use cauliflower rice mixed with herbs for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete comfort meal, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans.

Transform leftovers into exciting new meals: stuff the mixture into bell peppers for stuffed peppers, or serve over baked sweet potatoes for a hearty lunch. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck contributions.

Consider garnishing with fresh chopped parsley, a dollop of cranberry sauce, or toasted pecans for added color and texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Since the chicken continues cooking in the oven, aim for just a golden sear. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough.

Watery Stuffing: Always let the stuffing mixture rest for the full 5 minutes. Rushing this step results in soggy casserole bottoms.

Skipping the Rest Period: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking causes the layers to fall apart. That 5-minute rest makes all the difference in presentation.

Wrong Pan Size: Using a smaller dish creates uneven cooking, while a larger pan spreads ingredients too thin, resulting in dried-out edges.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigeration: Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld and improve after the first day.

Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Cover with foil and reheat at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Conclusion

This dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, straightforward techniques, and incredible results, it’s destined to become your go-to family dinner solution.

The beauty lies in its versatility – customize it to your family’s preferences, dietary needs, and whatever ingredients you have on hand. From busy weeknights to holiday gatherings, this casserole delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results every single time.

Ready to create your own comfort food masterpiece? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare for the incredible aromas that will fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your results and any creative variations you discover!

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