Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is like a warm hug from your grandma on a chilly winter night. Picture tender chicken nestled in fluffy stuffing, all drizzled with a savory sauce that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. You can almost smell the garlic and herbs wafting through the air, luring you into the kitchen like an irresistible siren song.
This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings where everyone’s battling over whose turn it is to do the dishes. With Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole on the table, you’ll have guests begging for seconds and maybe even thirds. Its charming blend of flavors and textures creates an experience that transcends mere nourishment, turning any meal into a cherished memory.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting casserole is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless
- The harmonious blend of chicken, stuffing, and savory sauce delivers an explosion of flavor
- Visually appealing, it boasts golden-brown crusts that invite you to dig in
- Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples
Ingredients for Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Stuffing Mix: Choose your favorite brand; the herbs and spices will infuse into the chicken beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness while enhancing moisture.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; plain yogurt can also be used as a substitute if you’re running low.
- Onion: Chopped finely; sauté until translucent for a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen with love.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves work best; their robust flavor elevates this dish from good to unforgettable.
- Butter: For that golden-brown crust, use unsalted butter to keep things balanced in flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole
Get ready to embark on this culinary journey! First up, we’re going to prep our chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, season those boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet with a little olive oil until they turn golden brown. This step locks in moisture and flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
In the same skillet, add butter and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and aromatic—about five minutes should do it! The sweet scent will have everyone wandering into the kitchen like moths to a flame.
Mixing It Together
In a large bowl, combine stuffing mix with chicken broth and sour cream. Stir until combined. The mixture should be moist but not soggy—think fluffy clouds of deliciousness waiting to embrace those chicken breasts.
Layering Your Dish
In a baking dish, layer those beautiful seared chicken breasts at the bottom. Pour over your stuffing mixture evenly while ensuring each piece of chicken feels loved beneath its fluffy pillow of goodness.
Baking Time
Cover your casserole with foil and bake for about 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Then remove the foil for another ten minutes so that glorious golden crust can form on top—be sure not to touch that oven door; we want all that heat trapped inside!
Finishing Touches
Once it’s bubbly and golden brown, take it out of the oven (carefully—you don’t want any hot casserole incidents). Let it rest for about five minutes before serving; this allows flavors to settle in nicely.
Now you’re ready to dig into Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole! Serve it up with some green beans or a crisp salad if you feel fancy—or just dive right in without guilt because life is too short not to indulge sometimes!
You Must Know
- Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s a warm hug on a plate
- With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it transforms any dinner night into a cozy affair
- Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this dish is a sure crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken and searing it in a hot pan to lock in flavors. Meanwhile, prepare the stuffing mixture. Combine everything in a baking dish and let the oven work its magic while you relax with a glass of wine.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Experiment with different herbs and spices to make this casserole uniquely yours—maybe even throw in some cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until it’s heated through, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use day-old bread for stuffing; it absorbs moisture better
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing chicken to ensure even cooking
- Let the casserole sit after baking; this helps it set properly and enhances flavor
Sometimes I make Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole for my friends’ game nights, and they all rave about how it tastes like home—it’s hard not to feel proud when they keep asking for seconds!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole?
To prepare Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole, gather simple yet wholesome ingredients. You will need cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and stuffing mix. For added flavor, include sautéed onions, celery, and your choice of seasonings like thyme and parsley. This combination creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
How long does it take to bake Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole?
Baking Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Ensure that the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown for optimal results. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking while achieving that perfect crunchy topping.
Can I make Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
What sides pair well with Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole?
Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for balance. Mashed potatoes also complement the dish nicely, adding more comfort to your meal. These sides enhance the overall dining experience while keeping the focus on the casserole.
Conclusion for Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole:
In summary, Dolly’s Chicken And Stuffing Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that combines comforting flavors and textures in one hearty meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. By following the baking instructions carefully, you’ll achieve a deliciously warm casserole that your family will love. Enjoy this delightful recipe as part of your culinary repertoire!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender chicken enveloped in fluffy stuffing, all topped with a savory sauce that brings warmth to every bite. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions, this casserole will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Enjoy a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transforms any meal into a cherished memory.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine stuffing mix, chicken broth, and sour cream until moist but not soggy.
- Layer seared chicken in a baking dish and top evenly with the stuffing mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
