Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is one of those comforting, down-home meals that feels like a warm hug. It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with classic flavors that remind me of Sunday dinners and family gatherings. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just want a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this casserole is to throw together with simple pantry ingredients. The creamy chicken layer paired with the savory, buttery stuffing on top makes it the kind of meal that disappears fast. It’s great for using up leftover chicken or turkey, and I can prep it ahead of time when I know I’ve got a busy day coming. Best of all, it’s a true comfort food classic that never goes out of style.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked, shredded chicken
cream of chicken soup
sour cream
chicken broth
boxed stuffing mix
unsalted butter, melted
onion, finely chopped (optional)
celery, finely chopped (optional)
salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, I stir together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper until combined.

3. I spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

4. In a separate bowl, I combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and warm chicken broth. If I’m using onion and celery, I sauté them first until soft, then mix them in with the stuffing.

5. I spoon the stuffing mixture over the chicken layer, spreading it evenly.

6. I bake the casserole uncovered for about 30–35 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown on top.

7. I let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings and takes around 45 minutes total—10–15 minutes of prep and 30–35 minutes in the oven.

Variations

I sometimes stir in a handful of frozen peas or cooked green beans to the chicken layer for added veggies. When I want a richer flavor, I use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of chicken. I’ve also swapped turkey for the chicken during the holidays or added shredded cheese between the layers for a gooey surprise.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I microwave individual portions or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes. It also freezes well—just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Yes, I often use rotisserie chicken—it saves time and adds great flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until I’m ready to bake.

What kind of stuffing mix should I use?

I usually go with a seasoned boxed stuffing mix, but any kind works—herb, cornbread, or even homemade if I have it on hand.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, and I often do! A layer of shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese between the chicken and stuffing makes it extra comforting.

How do I keep the stuffing from getting soggy?

I make sure not to add too much broth and bake it uncovered so the top gets nice and crispy.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is one of my go-to recipes when I want something cozy, classic, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. With creamy chicken and buttery stuffing, it’s a dish that brings back memories and makes new ones every time I make it.