Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of meal that wraps you in comfort from the very first forkful. With tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, a luscious cream sauce, and a golden layer of cheesy, buttery stuffing, it’s impossible not to feel cozy and content at the dinner table. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory chicken, creamy sour cream, and that classic Stove Top stuffing flavor we all know and love. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd at your next gathering, Dolly’s casserole is reliably simple yet strikingly delicious—a bona fide crowd-pleaser that earns compliments every time.

What really makes this casserole stand out is how effortlessly it comes together and how well it holds up for leftovers. You can prep most of the components ahead of time and let all those flavors mingle overnight in the fridge, so when the next day rolls around, your only job is to bake until bubbly and golden. And let’s not forget that melty cheddar crown—once it’s bubbling and bronzed, you know you’re moments away from dinner bliss. It’s a recipe that lives up to its reputation, delivering mouthwatering satisfaction without requiring hours in the kitchen. Get ready for warm smiles and full bellies because this is comfort food at its finest.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN DOLLY'S CHICKEN AND STUFFING CASSEROLE

Every component in this casserole plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the seasoned chicken to the creamy sauce and the crunchy stuffing top, each ingredient contributes to the cozy, homey character of Dolly’s signature dish.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These lean cuts become juicy and tender after a quick sear, acting as the hearty base of the casserole.
• Olive oil: A light coating of oil helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and promotes a beautiful golden crust during searing.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and the creamy sauce.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and balancing bite to the overall dish.
• Garlic powder: Infuses savory depth and helps build a nuanced, aromatic seasoning profile.
• Onion powder: Offers a gentle sweetness and rounds out the spice blend for the chicken.
• Chicken broth: Provides rich, savory liquid for the stuffing mix and infuses moisture throughout the casserole.
• Stove Top stuffing mix: Creates that classic, buttery, herb-filled crunch on top, marrying convenience with nostalgic flavor.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: Forms the creamy backbone of the sauce, binding the casserole together in a velvety blanket.
• Sour cream: Introduces tangy creaminess that lightens the sauce and adds a slight zip.
• Melted butter: Enhances richness and ensures the stuffing topping turns golden and crisp.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, savory peaks that seal in moisture and deliver irresistible cheesiness.
• Chopped celery: Contributes a fresh, mild crunch and vegetal brightness to the creamy sauce.
• Chopped onions: Brings sweet, savory depth and a touch of bite to the vegetable layer.
• Dried thyme: Offers earthy, slightly floral notes for a comforting herbaceous finish.
• Dried parsley: Adds a gentle vegetal freshness and color contrast in the sauce.

HOW TO MAKE DOLLY'S CHICKEN AND STUFFING CASSEROLE

Follow these steps to assemble and bake this comforting dish, and you’ll soon be savoring a warm, satisfying meal that feels like home.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly warmed up by the time your casserole is assembled.

2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season each piece generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, pressing the spices into the meat.

3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts until they develop a golden brown crust on each side, about 3 minutes per side.

4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate—this quick sear locks in juices and adds delicious flavor.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth and stuffing mix, then stir until the liquid is fully absorbed and the mixture is fluffy.

6. In another bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, dried thyme, and dried parsley until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.

7. Fold in the chopped celery and chopped onions, evenly distributing the veggies throughout the sauce.

8. Place the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a solid base for the layers to come.

9. Spread the creamy soup and vegetable mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure every breast is nicely coated.

10. Top with the prepared stuffing, covering the sauce layer completely.

11. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffing for that melty, golden finish.

12. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven—this gentle steam keeps everything moist.

13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

14. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set slightly, making it easier to plate.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR DOLLY'S CHICKEN AND STUFFING CASSEROLE

When it’s time to bring this hot, cheesy casserole to the table, consider these ideas to make every bite even more memorable and balanced.

• Serve with roasted vegetables: Roast carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper until caramelized. The slightly sweet veggies contrast beautifully with the savory casserole.
• Pair it with a crisp green salad: A salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the dish’s richness, adding freshness and color.
• Add a drizzle of homemade gravy: Whisk pan drippings or a simple gravy over individual portions for an extra layer of savory, silky goodness that ties all the flavors together.
• Family-style presentation: Bring the casserole dish straight to the table and let everyone help themselves. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a festive touch.

HOW TO STORE DOLLY'S CHICKEN AND STUFFING CASSEROLE

Storing your leftovers properly ensures they stay as flavorful and moist as when you first served them. Here are some tips to keep your casserole tasting its best:

• Refrigeration: Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, covering loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Microwaving works, too—just cover to trap moisture.
• Make-ahead assembly: Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

CONCLUSION

From the moment you mix the creamy sauce to the instant the cheese turns gorgeously golden, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers comforting flavors and joyful aromas that turn any ordinary evening into a special occasion. This dish brings together succulent chicken, a velvety blend of soup and sour cream, fresh veggies, and buttery stuffing for a harmonious medley that appeals to young and old alike. Whether you’re cooking for your busy family on a weeknight or looking for a heartwarming recipe to share with friends, this casserole stands ready to impress with minimal fuss.

Feel free to print this article and save it for later, so you always have Dolly’s cozy casserole at your fingertips. Below you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer any lingering questions you might have about ingredients, substitutions, or techniques. If you try this recipe or need a hand along the way, please leave your comments, questions, or feedback—I’m here to help you enjoy every delicious bite!

Print Recipe

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Author: Sophie Reynolds Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 50 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Calories: 450

Description

This comforting casserole features succulent chicken topped with creamy sauce, savory stuffing, and melty cheese. It's perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 package (6 ounces) stove top stuffing mix

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• ¹⁄₂ cup melted butter

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¹⁄₂ cup chopped celery

• ¹⁄₂ cup chopped onions

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on each side, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth and stuffing mix. Stir until the liquid is absorbed.
6. In another bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, thyme, and parsley until smooth.
7. Fold in chopped celery and onions into the soup mixture.
8. Place the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Spread the soup and vegetable mixture evenly over the chicken.
10. Top with the prepared stuffing and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Note

• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight for enhanced flavor.
• Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
• Substitute turkey for chicken for a post-holiday meal solution.
• Consider using low-sodium broth and soup for a healthier option.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: chicken casserole, stuffing recipe, creamy chicken dish, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meals