Introduction
Looking for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner? Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the answer! This recipe is a hearty combination of tender chicken, flavorful stuffing, and creamy sauce, all baked together to golden brown perfection. It’s the perfect way to use leftover chicken, or you can easily cook some chicken specifically for this dish. Get ready to experience a taste of home with this classic casserole.
Making Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cooked chicken, shredded (about 3 cups)
- Prepared stuffing mix (about 6 cups)
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.75 oz)
- Milk (1/2 cup)
- Butter, melted (1/4 cup)
- Optional: Chopped celery, onion, or mushrooms for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, prepared stuffing, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- If using, saute your chopped celery, onion, or mushrooms in a pan with a little butter until softened. Add them to the chicken and stuffing mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. This will help the stuffing brown nicely.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Using Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken.
- Stuffing Variations: Feel free to use your favorite type of stuffing mix, such as herb, cornbread, or sage stuffing.
- Cream of Soup Substitutions: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some frozen peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrients and color.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Serving Suggestions
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a side salad, cranberry sauce, or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner for busy families. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out!
