Craving a cozy, satisfying dish that feels like it came straight from a Southern kitchen? This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole—infused with the charm and simplicity often linked to Dolly Parton—is the ultimate comfort food. With juicy chicken, seasoned stuffing, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to any table, whether you’re winding down after a long day or gathering with family on a quiet Sunday.
Whether you’re shortcutting with rotisserie chicken or going all-in with homemade ingredients, this casserole delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Plus, we’ll walk you through how to prep it in advance, keep the stuffing perfectly crisp, and tailor it to suit gluten-free needs.
For another one-dish comfort meal, don’t miss our Chicken Shawarma Sheet Pan Dinner Delish—just as cozy, just as simple.
What Is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
The Origin and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole isn’t just a quick meal—it’s Southern comfort served on a plate, steeped in tradition and heart. Rooted in the traditions of home-cooked meals passed down through generations, this comforting dish found its way into hearts (and church cookbooks) thanks to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing charm.
With its blend of practicality and nostalgia, this Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole captures the spirit of Southern comfort food. Like Dolly Parton herself, it’s heartfelt, down-to-earth, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Why Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Is a Beloved Favorite in the South
This casserole became a staple for good reason:
- It’s made with everyday ingredients: Think canned soup, cooked chicken, and boxed stuffing—nothing fancy, just reliable basics.
- It serves plenty: Ideal for feeding a family or sharing at gatherings.
- It welcomes your spin: Add veggies, tweak the seasonings, or swap in what you’ve got.
In every bite, it brings that “home sweet home” feeling—no wonder it’s a Southern favorite through and through.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
What Makes This Casserole So Unique?
The heart of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole lies in its simplicity—but don’t let that fool you. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing flavor, texture, and that unmistakable comfort-food appeal.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | The main protein. Use rotisserie for ease or leftover baked chicken. |
| Stuffing mix | Adds flavor and texture; traditional herb or cornbread varieties work well. |
| Cream of chicken soup | Creates a rich, creamy base that ties everything together. |
| Chicken broth | Keeps everything moist while adding depth. |
| Sour cream or mayo | Enhances creaminess and tang—totally optional but highly recommended. |
| Butter | Gives the stuffing that golden, crisp topping everyone loves. |
This is a no-fuss casserole that pulls from your pantry and freezer. You don’t need anything fancy—just real, honest ingredients.
If you’re aiming for a healthier twist, you can sub in Greek yogurt for sour cream, use low-sodium broth, or even add in steamed vegetables for extra nutrition. The beauty of this Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is that it works with what you have.
Choosing the Right Chicken: Rotisserie vs Cooked vs Raw
Let’s be real — this casserole shines with pre-cooked chicken. A store-bought rotisserie makes things quicker and adds a punch of flavor right out of the gate. Here’s why it works so well:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Pre-cooked, seasoned, and juicy. Perfect when you need dinner fast.
- Boiled or Baked Chicken Breasts: Perfect when you want a lighter flavor and full control over how much salt goes into the dish.
- Raw Chicken: Can be used, but it needs to be diced small and cooked thoroughly. You’ll have to increase the baking time and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F.
So, can you use raw chicken? Yes—but it’s not ideal unless you’re adjusting the bake time and broth ratio. Using raw meat can also lead to soggy stuffing if not layered correctly.
Print
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor in every bite. This make-ahead-friendly dish brings together tender shredded chicken, a rich creamy base, and perfectly crisp stuffing on top. Ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy holidays, it’s a family favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (traditional or cornbread)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Prepare stuffing mix as directed, using slightly less water to avoid sogginess.
- Add Stuffing: Spoon the stuffing over the chicken mixture. Drizzle melted butter across the top for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and edges are bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
You can make this casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it before baking. For a holiday twist, swap the chicken for leftover turkey and add dried cranberries to the stuffing. Use gluten-free or low-sodium options as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: sheet pan meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Recipe for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Preparing the Creamy Chicken Base
Creating the creamy foundation of Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is what turns an ordinary dish into that melt-in-your-mouth comfort we all crave. This base should be thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to coat every piece of chicken evenly.
Start with your filling:
- 2 to 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup of sour cream or mayo (adds a subtle tang and prevents dryness)
- ¼ cup of chicken broth (adjust for consistency)
Mix these ingredients together in a large bowl until fully combined. You want a smooth, rich filling that isn’t watery. This creamy mixture is the secret to keeping the casserole moist while delivering that unmistakable flavor Dolly fans know and love.
This filling forms the first layer of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, locking in moisture and flavor beneath the stuffing.
Layering the Stuffing for the Perfect Texture
Stuffing isn’t just a topping here—it’s part of the experience. Done right, it brings contrast with a slightly crispy top and a tender, savory middle.
Here’s the layering breakdown:
- Bottom Layer: Evenly smooth the creamy chicken blend into a lightly buttered 9×13 dish.
- Stuffing Layer: In a separate bowl, prepare your stuffing according to package directions—but cut the liquid by 25% to prevent sogginess. Give it 5 minutes to settle and fluff up before serving.
- Top It Off: Gently spoon the stuffing over the chicken layer, being careful not to press it down. You want texture, not mush.
Optional trick: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter across the top to help the stuffing brown and crisp during baking.
Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Mix Filling | Combine chicken, soup, sour cream, broth |
| Layer Base | Spread creamy chicken into baking dish |
| Prepare Stuffing | Reduce water slightly; fluff before layering |
| Top and Bake | Add stuffing, drizzle butter, bake uncovered at 350°F for 35–40 mins |
| Rest and Serve | Let sit for 10 minutes before serving |
Tips to Prevent Soggy Stuffing
Common Mistakes That Make Stuffing Mushy
It happens all too often: you prep your casserole, bake it to bubbly perfection, but when you dig in—ugh. The stuffing is wet, soggy, and disappointing.
Luckily, we’ve pinpointed exactly what causes that—and how to avoid it:
Overdoing the Liquid
- Boxed stuffing often suggests generous amounts of broth or water, but in this casserole, the creamy chicken base already brings plenty of moisture. Piling on more can turn your topping into a mushy mess.
- Fix it: Reduce the liquid in your stuffing prep by about 25%. Let it sit to absorb before layering it on.
Not Prepping the Stuffing Separately
- Mixing stuffing directly into the casserole can make it too soft or mushy, especially if it soaks in the creamy chicken layer for too long.
- Fix it: Always mix the stuffing separately and layer it gently on top.
Covering While Baking
- Baking with foil locks in moisture—which is exactly what we don’t want here. You’re looking for that golden-brown crunch.
- Fix it: Bake uncovered at 350°F so steam escapes and the stuffing crisps up.
Using Raw Chicken
- When raw chicken is used, it releases juice as it cooks. That extra moisture has nowhere to go but up—into your stuffing.
- Fix it: Stick with pre-cooked chicken or adjust baking time to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
How to Achieve the Right Crunchy-Topped Finish
Getting that perfect top layer is all about balance—moist underneath, crispy on top. Here are five quick tricks that never fail:
- Use melted butter: Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons over the top before baking.
- Add crushed croutons or panko: Sprinkle a handful across the stuffing for crunch.
- Use a wide baking dish: The more surface area, the crispier the topping.
- Skip the foil: Leave your casserole uncovered during baking.
- Broil at the end: For maximum crisp, broil on high for 2–3 minutes—watch closely!
Remember, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole should have that comforting contrast: rich and creamy beneath, golden and crunchy above.
How to Achieve the Right Crunchy-Topped Finish
Getting that perfect top layer is all about balance—moist underneath, crispy on top. Here are five quick tricks that never fail:
- Use melted butter: Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons over the top before baking.
- Add crushed croutons or panko: Sprinkle a handful across the stuffing for crunch.
- Use a wide baking dish: Extra surface area helps the topping get crisp and golden all over.
- Skip the foil: Leave your casserole uncovered during baking.
- Broil at the end: For maximum crisp, broil on high for 2–3 minutes—watch closely!
Remember, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole should have that comforting contrast: rich and creamy beneath, golden and crunchy above.
Variations and Substitutes You’ll Love
Using Cornbread Stuffing Instead of Traditional Mix
One of the most flavorful ways to shake up Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is by swapping out classic herb stuffing for cornbread stuffing. This twist introduces a slightly sweet, buttery layer that balances the savory richness of the chicken and creamy base.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Use dry cornbread mix or leftover homemade cornbread.
- Let the cornbread dry out overnight or toast it in the oven so it doesn’t fall apart when moistened.
- Add sautéed onions, celery, and a pinch of sage to mimic traditional stuffing flavor but with more Southern flair.
Cornbread stuffing gives the casserole a fluffy yet hearty top layer, perfect for pairing with tangy cranberry sauce or a drizzle of gravy.
Pro tip: If your cornbread is too fresh or soft, cut the broth amount in half to avoid sogginess.
This Southern-style twist is gaining popularity in fall potlucks and holiday gatherings—because who doesn’t love a little cornbread charm?
Low-Sodium, Gluten-Free, or Dairy-Free Options
Not everyone can enjoy the classic version of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the comfort. Here’s how to make it work for different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor:
For a gluten-free casserole:
- Use a certified gluten-free stuffing mix or make your own from GF bread.
- Make your own cream of chicken soup using GF flour or cornstarch as the thickener.
For a low-sodium version:
- Use no-salt-added chicken broth and soup.
- Skip added salt and use garlic powder, thyme, or poultry seasoning to boost flavor naturally.
For a dairy-free version:
- Use unsweetened coconut yogurt or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative to sour cream.
- Choose a dairy-free condensed soup like Pacific Foods’ Creamy Chicken alternative.
No matter the variation, the heart of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole stays the same: simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Quick Variation Comparison Table
| Variation | Ingredient Swaps | Flavor Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Cornbread Style | Use cornbread stuffing, add sage and celery | Slightly sweet, Southern-rich flavor |
| Gluten-Free | GF stuffing mix, GF cream soup | Same comfort, safer for sensitivities |
| Low-Sodium | No-salt broth, soup, skip table salt | Milder flavor, add herbs for depth |
| Dairy-Free | Coconut yogurt, dairy-free soup | Rich texture with no dairy aftertaste |
Make-Ahead Instructions and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Tips for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
If you love planning ahead—or just want dinner ready after a long day—then you’ll be glad to know Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is incredibly freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep. In fact, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend.
Here’s how to prep it ahead:
- Put the casserole together completely: Layer the creamy chicken base and stuffing as the recipe directs.
- Do not bake: Cover tightly with foil or wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to bake:
- If refrigerated: Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
- From frozen? Let it defrost in the fridge overnight, then bake uncovered at 350°F for 40–45 minutes. If the middle’s still a bit icy, tack on an extra 10 minutes.
Planning dinner ahead with Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole not only saves time, but guarantees you’ll always have a cozy meal ready when you need it.
Reheating Without Losing Flavor or Texture
Reheating casseroles can be tricky—no one wants a rubbery chicken bite or dried-out stuffing. Here’s how to keep that fresh-from-the-oven taste even on day two (or three):
For the oven:
- Preheat to 325°F.
- Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.
- Heat for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
For the microwave:
- Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate.
- Drape a moistened paper towel on top to lock in steam and keep it from drying out.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Pro Tip: Add a spoonful of broth or a pat of butter before reheating to revive moisture and flavor. This works especially well if you stored the casserole without any sauce on top.
Whether you’re reheating leftovers or serving after freezing, the flavor of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole holds up beautifully—and that’s part of what makes it such a reliable go-to dish.
Freezer Storage Guide Table
| Prep Step | Time Frame | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Unbaked in Fridge | Up to 24 hours | Tightly cover; bring to room temp before baking |
| Unbaked in Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap in foil + plastic wrap for best results |
| Reheating Time | 15–20 mins (oven) | Add moisture before reheating |
Knowing When It’s Done – Cooking Times and Temperatures
Oven Temperature and Baking Time Guide
One of the most common questions home cooks ask is, “How do I know my dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is fully cooked?” The good news? You don’t need to guess. When you follow a few simple baking rules, you’ll get a perfectly golden, bubbling casserole every time.
Here’s the golden standard:
| Casserole Type | Bake Temp | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshly Assembled (Not Frozen) | 350°F (175°C) | 35–40 minutes | Bake uncovered |
| After Refrigeration | 350°F | 40–45 minutes | Let sit at room temp for 20 mins first |
| From Frozen (Thawed Overnight) | 350°F | 45–50 minutes | Add 5–10 mins if still cold in center |
How to Know It’s Ready:
- The edges should be bubbling gently, and the middle should be hot all the way through.
- The top layer of stuffing should be golden with a light crunch.
- If you’ve used uncooked chicken (though it’s not ideal), make sure the internal temp hits 165°F using a thermometer.
Signs Your Casserole Is Cooked Through
Not using a thermometer? No problem. There are other ways to check if your dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is fully baked:
1. Bubbling Edges
If you see the creamy base bubbling around the edges of the pan, it’s a sign the center is heating through.
2. Firm Center
Give the middle of the casserole a light press with a spoon. It should feel firm, not jiggly or runny.
3. Golden Brown Stuffing
The top layer should have that classic golden crisp—dry to the touch, slightly crunchy, and full of toasty aroma.
4. Steam When Sliced
Slice into the casserole and look for rising steam. If it’s steaming and the filling looks cohesive—not separate or watery—it’s ready.
Overcooking isn’t a huge risk with this recipe, thanks to its creamy base, but underbaking can lead to uneven texture and safety concerns if raw poultry was used.
What to Serve with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Perfect Side Dishes to Round Out Your Meal
Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is rich, creamy, and satisfying all on its own. But pairing it with the right side dishes elevates dinner into a true Southern-inspired feast.
Here are some winning combinations that keep the flavors balanced and the plate beautiful:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Steamed green beans | Adds crispness and freshness to contrast creamy casserole |
| Roasted carrots with thyme | Earthy sweetness that complements savory stuffing |
| Garlic mashed cauliflower | A light, low-carb balance to the rich main dish |
| Cranberry orange salad | Sweet-tart relief that cuts through creaminess |
| Buttermilk biscuits or rolls | Great for scooping up sauce and rounding out the meal |
Try combining two lighter sides with one heavier item to keep the meal satisfying without feeling too dense.
Drinks and Sauces That Complement This Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
While dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with the right sauce or beverage brings out deeper flavor notes and enhances the experience.
Recommended Sauces
- Pan gravy or chicken gravy: Drizzle just a spoonful for added moisture and flavor.
- Homemade cranberry sauce: Its tangy sweetness brightens every bite.
- Apple cider reduction: For a gourmet touch that pairs beautifully with stuffing.
Beverage Pairings
- Chilled lemon iced tea: Crisp, refreshing, and perfect for balancing out the creamy richness of the casserole.
- Citrus-infused sparkling water: Bright and bubbly, it adds a refreshing lift to every bite.
- Chardonnay or a mild white wine: Complements the creaminess without overpowering.
And if you’re serving this casserole at a holiday table, offer warm apple cider or even spiced mocktails to keep things cozy.
By pairing the flavors right, you give Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole a full meal setting that feels thoughtful, balanced, and festive—without much extra work.
Quick Pairings Table
| Pairing Type | Top Picks | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Veggie Sides | Green beans, carrots, cauliflower | Light, fiber-rich, and colorful |
| Breads | Biscuits, dinner rolls | Ideal for scooping and satisfying bites |
| Sauces | Gravy, cranberry, cider glaze | Adds tang or depth to balance richness |
| Beverages | Iced tea, citrus water, white wine | Refreshes the palate |
Reader Favorites and Community Twists
Top User Modifications Worth Trying
Over time, home cooks have put their own spin on Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, turning a simple dish into a personal tradition. Whether it’s swapping ingredients or adding local flair, these creative takes prove just how versatile this comfort-food classic really is.
Here are the most popular variations shared across blogs, social media, and family recipe boxes:
- Cheesy Casserole Version
Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack to the chicken blend—this simple addition melts right in, adding creamy depth and extra comfort to every bite. - Veggie-Packed Twist
Mix in frozen peas, diced carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to boost the nutritional value without losing flavor. - Tex-Mex Style
Give it a Southwest kick by blending in taco spices and using cornbread stuffing for a smoky, spicy edge. Some readers even top it with crushed tortilla chips before baking. - Bacon-Lover’s Upgrade
Crumble cooked bacon over the stuffing just before baking. It adds a smoky, salty kick that takes the flavor over the top. - Holiday-Inspired Version
Use leftover turkey instead of chicken and add dried cranberries and pecans to the stuffing for a festive touch.
These creative, community-sourced twists elevate Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole while keeping it easy and approachable. That’s the charm—just a couple of simple changes make it uniquely yours.
Real Reviews and Feedback from Home Cooks
We dug into real reviews and reader comments from across food forums and recipe blogs—and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive:
- “I’ve made Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole at least a dozen times. My picky kids even ask for seconds!”
- “This is my favorite way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken—it’s quick, hearty, and brings all the cozy vibes of a mini Thanksgiving dinner.”
- “Swapped in turkey and cornbread stuffing—my husband says it’s better than his mom’s. Don’t tell her.”
These stories show how this casserole has become more than just a meal—it’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing tradition for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, and even potlucks.
It’s easy to see why Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole continues to trend. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and comforting to the core
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Technically, yes—but it’s not ideal. If you use raw chicken in Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, you’ll need to dice it into small pieces and increase the baking time to ensure it reaches 165°F internally. However, raw chicken tends to release excess liquid during cooking, which can make the stuffing soggy. For best results, use pre-cooked shredded chicken like rotisserie or baked breast.
Why is my stuffing soggy?
Soggy stuffing is usually caused by too much moisture or baking the casserole covered. In Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, the creamy base already adds a lot of moisture—so reduce the broth or water used in your stuffing mix. Also, bake it uncovered to let the stuffing crisp on top. If you’re using raw chicken, the extra juices can also contribute to a mushy texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
For busy days or future cravings, this casserole’s got your back. Build it up to a full day ahead and stash it in the fridge until showtime. Freezing it? No problem—just wrap it snugly and use within two months. When the moment strikes, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake it up like usual. If it’s still chilly in the middle, just give it a little more oven love.
How do I know when it’s done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the sides are bubbling with goodness. If you’re in doubt—especially if raw chicken was used—check that the center hits 165°F with a food thermometer. When you cut into the middle, a little steam should escape, and the stuffing should have a light crunch on top with a firm, set base—no wobbly or undercooked spots.
Can I use cornbread stuffing instead?
Definitely! Cornbread stuffing is a popular variation that adds a touch of sweetness and Southern flair to Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole. Just be sure the cornbread is dry or toasted before mixing—otherwise it can break down during baking. Many people actually prefer this twist, especially around the holidays.
Conclusion
Whether you’re feeding a family of five or just craving a cozy, stress-free dinner, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole hits every note—comforting, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. With just a few pantry staples, you can turn a simple casserole into a full-blown Southern-inspired favorite.
From holiday feasts to weeknight dinners, this Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole recipe works year-round. And with all the ways to make it ahead, freeze it, or remix it with cornbread, bacon, or veggies—it’s no wonder this Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole keeps showing up on dinner tables everywhere.
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Make it once, and chances are you’ll be adding Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole to your personal comfort food hall of fame.
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