Name: Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded ((about 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken)); 1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix ((seasoned; no need to prepare as directed on box)); 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup ((room temperature helps it mix easily)); 1 cup chicken broth ((low-sodium or regular)); 1/2 cup milk ((whole or 2% for creamier texture)); 1/2 cup celery, chopped ((small dice)); 1/2 cup onion, chopped ((white or yellow, small dice)); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper ((freshly ground for best flavor)); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ((optional, for a cheesy top))

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, comforting, and wildly satisfying, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of homey dish that warms both belly and soul. Imagine tender shredded chicken folded into a rich cream of chicken sauce, studded with aromatic celery and onions, and finished with buttery stuffing that soaks up all those savory juices. Fun fact: casseroles like this became popular because they stretch ingredients and feed a crowd — perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. If you love easy, family-friendly meals that feel like a hug on a plate, this one’s for you.

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and speed: mostly a mix-and-bake affair with minimal hands-on time. It’s great for busy cooks and picky eaters alike. If you enjoy cozy classics, you might also like our twist on chicken and dumplings — it shares that same comfort-food vibe but in a soupier format for chilly nights Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Try Dolly’s tonight and enjoy the kind of leftovers that taste even better the next day.

What is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?

What’s in a name? Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole sounds like a dish named after a friend, neighbor, or beloved family member — and honestly, who wouldn’t name a heavenly casserole after someone who brings comfort to the table? Did Dolly invent it, or was it just her favorite to bring to church potlucks? Who knows! But the charm is real: warm, familiar, and a little bit nostalgic. After one bite, you’ll understand why people say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Curious yet? Give it a try and see if Dolly’s legacy becomes part of your family lore.

Why You’ll Love This

First, the main highlight: the perfect marriage of creamy chicken and savory stuffing. The texture contrast between the tender, juicy chicken and the slightly crisped stuffing on top creates a satisfying bite every time. Second, it’s budget-friendly — using pantry staples like canned soup and boxed stuffing keeps costs low while feeding a crowd. Third, the flavor boosters — garlic powder, thyme, and optional cheddar — elevate this casserole from simple to irresistible. If you liked our cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole, you’ll appreciate how Dolly’s delivers bold comfort with minimal work Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Don’t wait — warm up your oven and make a pan tonight!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is delightfully straightforward: mix, combine, and bake. You’ll get a creamy, savory filling with a fluffy, flavorful stuffing topping that browns nicely in the oven. Preparation is fast — mostly chopping and mixing — and the bake time gives you room to prep a salad or set the table. Approximate time: 15 minutes prep, 30 to 35 minutes baking, total about 45 minutes.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken, shredded)
1 box (6 ounces) stuffing mix (seasoned; no need to prepare as directed on box)
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (room temperature helps it mix easily)
1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium or regular)
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% for creamier texture)
1/2 cup celery, chopped (small dice)
1/2 cup onion, chopped (white or yellow, small dice)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy top)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so the casserole won’t stick.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir until the soup is evenly distributed and the mixture looks creamy.
Add the chopped celery and chopped onion to the chicken mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly so the seasonings distribute evenly.
Add the stuffing mix to the bowl and stir until just combined. The stuffing will absorb some of the liquid and expand — aim for a moist, cohesive mixture without being soupy.
Transfer the mixture into the greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spreading it in an even layer so it bakes uniformly.
If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. This adds a golden, melty finish.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top turns golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent lightly with foil for the last 5 to 10 minutes.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set slightly for cleaner serving slices.

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

What to Serve With

Crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness
Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a bright, fresh side
Mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls for extra comfort
Cranberry sauce or a simple apple chutney for a sweet-tart contrast
A cold glass of iced tea or a light Chardonnay for easy pairing

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient substitutions: Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken if you want even more flavor. Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom for a different taste profile.
Texture tips: If you prefer a crisper top, leave the cheese off and stir 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the stuffing mix before topping.
Flavor boosts: Add 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning or a splash of white wine to the filling for depth.
Timing: If your chicken is cold from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes or warm slightly so it mixes easily with the soup.
Common mistakes: Don’t over-moisten the stuffing — it should hold some structure after absorbing liquids. Also, avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat single servings in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway. For larger portions, reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. To refresh the topping, uncover for the last 5 minutes to crisp.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free stuffing mix?
Yes. Use your preferred stuffing mix — whole wheat or gluten-free works fine, just follow the same quantity and method.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble and bake, then cool completely before freezing. Alternatively, freeze before baking and add a few extra minutes in the oven when baking from frozen.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free cream soup and plant-based milk, and omit the cheddar or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I make this casserole more flavorful?
Sauté the onion and celery in a little butter for 3 to 4 minutes before adding for a deeper flavor. Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or rosemary for brightness.

Can I use uncooked chicken?
It’s best to use cooked, shredded chicken for even texture and timing. If starting with raw chicken, poach or roast it first until fully cooked, then shred.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the kind of easy, comforting meal that belongs in every busy cook’s repertoire — creamy, savory, and satisfying with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding family, bringing a dish to a gathering, or simply craving something warm and hearty, this casserole delivers on flavor and convenience. For more cozy variations and inspiration, check out this classic take on Dolly’s dish at Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole – Ultimate Comfort, 1-Pan … and another reliable version at Chicken and Stuffing Casserole – The Country Cook. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the compliments that follow.