Introduction
Welcome to the world of comfort food with a touch of Southern charm – Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole! This iconic dish, inspired by the legendary Dolly Parton, is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will transport you to a cozy family dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
With its creamy chicken filling and crispy stuffing topping, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and flavorful seasonings creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the world of this beloved casserole and discover what makes it so special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is its versatility. This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The creamy texture of the chicken filling combined with the crispy, golden-brown stuffing topping creates a mouthwatering contrast that will leave you craving more.
Moreover, this casserole can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs. Whether you’re following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole can be customized to meet your requirements without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
Before you embark on your culinary adventure with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
– Cooked chicken, shredded
– Cream of chicken soup
– Sour cream
– Onion, finely chopped
– Celery, diced
– Butter
– Chicken broth
– Dried stuffing mix
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions:
If you prefer a lighter version of this casserole, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Additionally, you can customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the chicken filling for an extra burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, celery, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken filling.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
5. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success:
– To make this casserole even more flavorful, consider adding a dash of poultry seasoning or thyme to the chicken filling.
– For a crispy stuffing topping, drizzle a little extra melted butter over the stuffing mixture before baking.
– Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before assembling the casserole to ensure that it is tender and juicy.
Variations and Substitutions
There are countless ways to customize Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to suit your preferences:
– For a low-carb version, substitute the stuffing mix with a combination of almond flour and Parmesan cheese.
– To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free stuffing mix or make your own with gluten-free bread cubes and herbs.
– Add a pop of color and nutrition by including diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers in the chicken filling.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, consider serving it with a side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans seasoned with garlic and lemon. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea pairs beautifully with this comforting dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure that it is heated through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole freezes well. Simply portion out any leftovers, place them in airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is more than just a recipe – it’s a taste of tradition and a slice of comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this casserole is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your soul. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of this delectable dish fill your kitchen. From Dolly Parton’s kitchen to yours, enjoy every delicious bite!
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
A delightful blend of flavors and textures featuring a creamy chicken filling and crispy stuffing topping, this iconic dish is a comfort food with a touch of Southern charm that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package dried stuffing mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, celery, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine stuffing mix with melted butter and chicken broth. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken filling.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
