There’s something magical about a meal that takes you back home, and this one does exactly that. I still remember rushing home from work, craving something warm and familiar. I had a box of Stove Top stuffing, some leftover chicken, and a dream to make dinner feel like a hug. That’s when Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole recipe became a family favorite.
Inspired by my neighbor Dolly’s Southern kitchen, this dish is everything a comfort meal should be: easy, creamy, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re making it from scratch or turning it into a quick chicken and stove top stuffing bake, it’s the one dish that hits every note of cozy. This is more than just a recipe, it’s a reminder that comfort doesn’t need to be complicated.
If you’re craving something a little lighter but just as comforting, I also love making this Greek Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, it’s bright, cozy, and perfect for soup nights.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- One-Dish Wonder: All your protein, starch, and sauce in one easy bake.
- Quick & Easy: Uses pantry staples and pre-cooked chicken for fast prep.
- Family-Friendly: Picky eaters love it, and it’s gentle on little appetites.
- Ultimate Comfort: Creamy, savory, and soul-satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before or enjoying as leftovers.
What Is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
This chicken and stove top stuffing bake is a down-home classic. It blends tender, juicy chicken with creamy soups and a golden, savory stuffing crust. Easy to prep, endlessly comforting, and always satisfying, this is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something memorable.
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Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, cozy one-pan casserole made with tender chicken, stuffing mix, and comforting soup, perfect for busy weeknights and nostalgic meals.
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken tenderloins
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
10.5 oz can cream of celery soup
10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
¼ cup milk
6 oz box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
1 ½ cups chicken broth
Fresh or dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cut chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and place into the dish.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Whisk together both soups and milk until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle dry stuffing mix over the top.
7. Pour chicken broth on top, making sure the stuffing is moistened.
8. Cover with foil and bake 40–45 minutes.
9. Uncover and bake 5 more minutes for a crisp topping.
10. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
For crispier stuffing, prepare it separately and omit added broth.
Add cheese or sautéed onions and celery for extra flavor.
Use rotisserie chicken for a faster option.
Store leftovers in fridge for 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 371
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1594mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, and a few tips along the way:
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins, chopped (or use rotisserie chicken to save time)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 10.5 oz can cream of celery soup
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup milk (adds creaminess and thins the sauce)
- 6 oz box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix (the star of the topping)
- 1½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred to control the salt)
- Parsley, fresh or dried (for optional garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Colby Jack)
- Frozen peas, carrots, or mixed veggies
- Chopped fresh herbs for extra aroma
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole (Step-by-Step)
This cozy casserole comes together in minutes, and the oven does all the work. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer the Chicken: Cut 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins into bite-sized chunks. Place them evenly in the prepared dish. Season with ½ teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of cream of celery soup, and ¼ cup of milk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the Sauce: Spread the sauce mixture over the chicken in the dish, making sure every piece is coated.
- Add the Stuffing: Evenly sprinkle the dry Stove Top chicken stuffing mix over the top of the creamy layer.
- Add the Broth: Slowly pour 1½ cups of chicken broth across the top. Ensure the stuffing is fully moistened.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes.
- Finish Uncovered: Remove foil and bake another 5 minutes to crisp the top. Chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F.
- Rest & Serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. Scoop up some of the creamy gravy from the bottom, it’s what makes this casserole so rich and delicious!
Expert Cooking Tips for a Perfect Casserole
Get That Crispy Topping
Always remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking. It gives the stuffing that golden, crunchy top layer. Want even more flavor? Add shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese before the final bake.
Say No to Soggy Stuffing
Add broth slowly, just enough to moisten the stuffing. You want it hydrated, not mushy. If you like a fluffier top, prepare the stuffing separately per package instructions and layer it on without adding extra broth.
Rest Time is Key
Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes helps it set. It thickens up the sauce and makes serving way easier (and cleaner!).
Boost the Flavor
Before baking, sauté some diced onion and celery in butter and stir it into the soup mixture. It gives the casserole a deeper, richer flavor without complicating the recipe.
Tasty Twists on Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This recipe is already a hit as-is, but here are some fun ways to customize it for different tastes or ingredients you have on hand:
- Switch the Protein: No chicken? Use shredded turkey, leftover ham, or cooked ground chicken. This is a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.
- Change the Cream Base: Don’t have cream of chicken? Cream of mushroom or celery works beautifully and brings a slightly different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack between the chicken and stuffing layer for extra richness.
- Boost with Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or a mix of diced carrots and green beans. No need to thaw, just mix them right in.
- Make It From Scratch: Want to skip the canned soup? Make a simple white sauce using butter, flour, broth, and milk. Stir in salt, pepper, and onion powder for flavor.
This flexibility makes it easy to adapt based on what’s in your fridge or pantry.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
You’ve got a creamy, savory main, now here are some side ideas to complete your meal:
- Crisp Green Salad: Balance the richness with a simple vinaigrette-dressed salad. Something like this cucumber tomato salad is light and fresh.
- Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots all add color and nutrition without overpowering the casserole.
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor is especially great around the holidays and adds a festive touch.
- Warm Bread: Dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for mopping up every drop of that creamy gravy.
Don’t forget, this dish also works great for potlucks and holiday gatherings because it travels well and reheats beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole is just as good the next day, maybe even better!
Storing Leftovers
- In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
- In the Freezer: Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap, or store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a paper towel, and heat in 60-second intervals until warmed through.
- Oven: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Add a splash of broth if needed to refresh the texture.
Make-Ahead Option
You can assemble everything a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate the unbaked casserole, then pop it in the oven the next day.
Conclusion
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a dinner, it’s comfort, simplicity, and family gathered around the table. With creamy chicken, golden stuffing, and that signature cozy flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Go ahead, make it tonight, and feel the comfort in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken?
No, this recipe requires pre-cooked or bite-sized chicken pieces for even and safe cooking. Raw chicken won’t fully cook in time and may result in food safety issues.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top will be golden and crisp, and the edges will bubble. For food safety, the chicken should reach 165°F internally.
Can I use a different stuffing mix?
Yes! Cornbread stuffing, herb-seasoned, or even homemade all work well. Just ensure it’s moistened properly before baking.