Absolutely! Here’s a complete, detailed guide for Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, including everything from cultural context to nutritional breakdown and tips for success.
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Introduction
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the epitome of comfort food: warm, creamy, hearty, and filled with the nostalgic flavors of a Southern kitchen. This dish layers tender chicken, savory stuffing, and a creamy soup base into a baked casserole that’s both satisfying and simple. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, it channels the essence of home cooking with minimal fuss.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Rooted in classic Southern American cuisine, chicken and stuffing casseroles gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century as a way to stretch ingredients and simplify Sunday dinners. These casseroles reflect the culture of resourcefulness and hospitality, staples of Southern cooking. The “Dolly” in this version pays homage to Dolly Parton—not just a country music icon but also a symbol of Southern warmth, family tradition, and down-home food.
Casseroles like this one became a fixture in rural households due to their affordability, ease, and ability to feed a crowd—echoing themes of togetherness and comfort.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works well)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or celery soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or milk, for creamier texture)
- 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
Optional Additions
- Chopped onions or celery (sautéed for flavor and texture)
- Frozen peas or mixed vegetables (adds color and nutrition)
- Grated cheddar cheese (sprinkle on top before baking)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for brightness
- A splash of milk or extra broth for a looser texture
- French-fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers for crunch on top
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
- Toast the stuffing mix lightly in a dry skillet for extra texture.
- Balance moisture: Add more broth if your mixture seems too dry.
- Layer intentionally: Place chicken on the bottom so it stays juicy, stuffing on top for a crispy crust.
- Let it rest after baking to allow the casserole to set and slice more cleanly.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom (or celery) soup, sour cream, broth, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Add chicken: Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and mix well.
- Pour into dish: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare stuffing: In a separate bowl, mix the stuffing mix with melted butter (and optional broth if needed) until moistened but not soggy.
- Top the casserole: Spread the stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Description
This casserole is creamy, savory, and soul-warming. The base is rich and velvety from the soups and sour cream, with tender chunks of chicken nestled inside. The stuffing topping is buttery and crisp, adding texture and flavor that evoke Thanksgiving dinner in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a hug.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Note: Lower sodium and fat versions can be made by using light soups, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-sodium stuffing mix.
Conclusion
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a modern heirloom dish—simple yet deeply comforting. It’s a favorite for families seeking warmth and flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something familiar, this casserole delivers every time.
Recommendation
Serve this casserole with a side of green beans, cranberry sauce, or a simple salad. It’s a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with just about any vegetable side. Ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or sharing with neighbors.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish celebrates the kind of indulgence that feeds not just the body but the soul. With whole ingredients like real chicken and a little dairy, it’s possible to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal while still being mindful of nutrition. To lighten it up, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat soup, and add more veggies—proof that comfort food and wellness can coexist beautifully.*
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