Introduction
Nothing says cozy like a bubbling pan of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole fresh from the oven. Inspired by the queen of country herself, this comforting Southern favorite has become a staple in kitchens all across America. Whether it’s the rich creamy base, the savory shredded chicken, or the fluffy golden stuffing topping, this dish is all about satisfying, home-cooked flavor with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything there is to know about Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole. From its origin and ingredients to pro tips for reheating, substitutions, and nutritional facts—you’ll get the complete guide. We’ll even explore variations and related recipes, like Ina Garten’s take on comforting casseroles.
Looking for inspiration? Try our high-protein recipes section for more hearty meals like this one.
Table of content
Table of Contents
What is Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole?
The Origin and Popularity of Dolly’s Recipe
Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole isn’t just any baked dinner—it’s rooted in country comfort and down-home simplicity. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s love of hearty meals and Southern hospitality, this casserole blends everyday pantry staples into a flavorful, feel-good feast.
The recipe’s rise to fame is no surprise. Fans of Dolly and home-cooks alike quickly embraced it for its rich taste, easy prep, and budget-friendly ingredients. Unlike complicated gourmet casseroles, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole can be tossed together in under an hour—no fancy steps, just real comfort food.
It’s especially popular during colder months, holidays, and weeknights when families crave something warm and satisfying. Southern kitchens often treat this as a mainstay, with passed-down versions adding personal tweaks—like extra cheese, different soups, or seasoning blends.
Why It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something magical about the way Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole brings together textures and flavors. The creamy base—usually made with cream of chicken soup—envelops shredded chicken in a luscious sauce. Then, a layer of seasoned stuffing mix tops it off with a buttery, golden crust that adds just the right amount of crunch.
It’s also endlessly customizable, meaning you can throw in leftovers, swap in turkey, or add veggies like peas or mushrooms. That flexibility is part of what makes Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole such a hit across generations.
Don’t miss our weight loss meal section if you’re looking to modify this comfort classic for lighter eating.
Ingredients in Dolly Parton’s Chicken Casserole
Essential Components of the 5-Chicken Casserole
At the heart of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is a small collection of humble ingredients that work together beautifully. Whether you’re following the traditional 5-chicken version or a modified version, the base is always the same: creamy, savory, and easy to put together.
Here’s a typical ingredients list for Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole:
| Ingredient | Purpose in the Dish |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken | Protein base; adds richness and heartiness |
| Cream of chicken soup | Forms the creamy sauce layer |
| Sour cream or mayonnaise | Adds tang and extra creaminess |
| Stove Top stuffing mix | The crunchy, savory top layer |
| Chicken broth or stock | Moistens the stuffing for a perfect consistency |
| Butter (melted) | Enhances flavor and crisps up the stuffing topping |
| Salt, pepper, and seasonings | Boosts the dish’s flavor profile |
In most versions of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, the stuffing mix is pre-seasoned. So you don’t need a lot of extra spices. A pinch of garlic powder, dried thyme, or onion powder can elevate the flavor, especially if you’re skipping cream-based soups for a lighter version.
Recommended Substitutes for Healthier Options
Want to make Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole a little healthier without losing its comfort-food charm? Try these swaps:
- Low-sodium soup instead of regular cream of chicken
- Plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream
- Whole wheat stuffing mix instead of white bread versions
- Roasted turkey instead of chicken for a holiday twist
- Dairy-free butter or olive oil to reduce saturated fat
You can also sneak in extra veggies like:
- Diced carrots
- Celery
- Mushrooms
- Frozen peas or green beans
The beauty of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is that it welcomes customization. As long as you keep the creamy base and savory stuffing topping, you can adjust the rest to fit your dietary needs or pantry supply.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dolly’s Casserole
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Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 serving
Description
A classic Southern comfort dish made easy! This Dolly-inspired chicken and stuffing casserole blends creamy shredded chicken with buttery stuffing for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or holidays.
Ingredients
- 3–4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 box Stove Top stuffing mix
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- Optional: cheese, garlic powder, veggies
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix chicken, soup, and sour cream.
Layer mixture in a baking dish.
Mix stuffing with broth and butter.
Top casserole with stuffing.
Bake uncovered 35–40 minutes.
Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Customize with cheese, veggies, or seasonings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: High Protein Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Making Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is one of the simplest ways to get a delicious dinner on the table fast. You don’t need to be a seasoned cook—just follow these straightforward steps and you’ll have a bubbling dish of Southern comfort ready in under an hour.
Here’s how to make the perfect Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole from scratch:
- Preheat Your Oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Use 3 to 4 cups of shredded, cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great for speed and flavor.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine:
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder or onion powder
- Layer the Chicken in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the Cream Mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Prepare the Stuffing Mix: In a separate bowl, mix 1 box of stuffing mix with 1½ cups of warm chicken broth and 4 tablespoons of melted butter until moist but not soggy.
- Top the Casserole with the stuffing mixture.
- Bake for 35–40 Minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner scoops.
Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Tips to Get the Texture Just Right
One of the most common challenges in baking Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is achieving the right texture—creamy on the bottom, crisp on top. Here’s how to perfect it:
- Don’t over-saturate the stuffing mix. It should be moist but not soaked.
- Use freshly shredded chicken for better texture and flavor compared to canned.
- Tent with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to keep moisture in, then uncover to crisp the top.
- Let it rest before serving to thicken slightly and keep the layers intact.
Want to explore more casseroles with easy techniques like this? Don’t miss our article on white gazpacho and other creative comfort meals.
Using Stove Top Stuffing for the Casserole
Can Stove Top Stuffing Replace Homemade?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is how forgiving it is with ingredients—especially when it comes to stuffing. If you’re short on time or ingredients, Stove Top stuffing mix makes an ideal shortcut without compromising taste.
Many home cooks use Stove Top stuffing to replicate Dolly’s signature texture and flavor. It brings that perfect balance of savory seasoning and pillowy texture that pairs so well with the creamy chicken base.
In fact, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is often made with boxed stuffing as a time-saving favorite. The key is to moisten it just enough with broth and butter so it becomes soft and flavorful—but not mushy. Overhydrated stuffing can turn your casserole into a soggy mess.
Here’s a quick Stove Top guide for this casserole:
- Use 1 standard box (6 oz)
- Add 1½ cups warm chicken broth
- Mix in 3–4 tbsp melted butter
- Let it sit for 3–5 minutes before layering
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, Stove Top makes Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole easier and quicker, with no flavor lost.
How to Mix Stove Top with Chicken and Cream
Want to take your stuffing game up a notch? Here’s how to properly blend the stuffing with your chicken and cream base:
- Spread shredded cooked chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour your soup-and-sour-cream blend over the top.
- Prepare your stuffing mix separately, allowing it to sit for a few minutes to absorb the broth.
- Gently layer the stuffing over the creamy chicken—don’t press it down! Let it rest naturally to create an airy top layer.
- Optionally, sprinkle with paprika or shredded cheese before baking.
This technique helps keep your casserole layers distinct and satisfying, ensuring Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole has that ideal mix of creamy base and golden topping.
Looking for another savory one-dish wonder? Don’t miss our creamy and protein-rich pasta version here: Check out this creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe. It’s another easy, flavor-packed weeknight star.
Or if you need a boost while prepping your casserole, discover our protein coffee recipe to stay energized during dinner time.
Popular Variations and Twists on Dolly’s Recipe
Cheesy, Spicy, and Creamy Alternatives
One reason Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole has become a staple in so many kitchens is its flexibility. With just a few swaps or additions, you can create bold new versions while keeping the comfort-food vibe intact.
Here are some fan-favorite variations of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole:
- Cheesy Casserole: Add 1–2 cups of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the cream mixture. You can also sprinkle cheese on top before baking for a gooey, golden crust.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or use pepper jack cheese for a kick. Buffalo chicken lovers can even stir in a few tablespoons of hot sauce to the cream layer.
- Creamy Veggie Boost: Blend in frozen peas, carrots, mushrooms, or spinach. Not only does it add nutrition, but it also gives the dish more texture and balance.
These versions keep the spirit of Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole alive while letting you get creative with flavor profiles.
Making a Vegetarian or Vegan Version
Surprisingly, it’s easy to make Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole vegetarian- or vegan-friendly without sacrificing heartiness.
Vegetarian Version:
- Replace chicken with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms.
- Use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of chicken soup.
- Keep Stove Top stuffing if it’s vegetarian (check the label).
Vegan Version:
- Use dairy-free butter, vegan sour cream or plain plant yogurt.
- Swap in coconut cream or a dairy-free condensed soup alternative.
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs or vegan stuffing mix.
Need inspiration? Food influencers are putting their own spins on Dolly’s recipes. Discover creative takes like this viral version from Grandma Pam on TikTok:
Watch Grandma Pam’s Chicken Stuffing Casserole Trick
That quick video alone shows how wildly popular and easily adapted Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole has become—across all ages and cooking styles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
What are the ingredients in Dolly Parton’s 5 chicken casserole?
The original Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole—often referred to as the “5-chicken casserole”—includes five simple ingredients: cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream or mayo, stuffing mix, and chicken broth. Many versions also add butter to moisten the stuffing. This no-fuss combo creates the rich, creamy base and golden topping that make the dish so beloved.
What is Dolly Parton casserole?
Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole is a Southern-style baked dish inspired by Dolly Parton’s love of hearty, comforting meals. It typically features shredded chicken, a creamy soup layer, and a savory stuffing topping. It’s known for being easy, affordable, and irresistibly satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Does Ina Garten have any casserole recipes?
Yes, Ina Garten (The Barefoot Contessa) is known for her elegant, yet simple casseroles. While she doesn’t have a recipe titled exactly like Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, she has several comfort food casseroles, such as chicken pot pie and baked pasta with white sauce. Her recipes often include fresh herbs, homemade stocks, and high-quality cheeses—ideal for cooks wanting a more gourmet twist.
Can you use Stove Top stuffing to stuff a chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use Stove Top stuffing to stuff a chicken. It’s quick, pre-seasoned, and offers a flavorful shortcut for holiday or weeknight meals. In fact, many home cooks use it in Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole as a top layer instead of baking it inside the chicken—it’s safer, faster, and delivers the same comforting flavor.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken in casseroles?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup or want a healthier alternative for Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole, you can substitute:
Cream of mushroom or celery soup
Greek yogurt mixed with a little chicken broth
A homemade white sauce (butter, flour, milk, and chicken bouillon)
These options will still give the casserole a creamy base without compromising taste.
How do you reheat chicken and stuffing casserole?
To reheat Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole without drying it out, use the oven method:
Preheat oven to 325°F.
Cover the casserole dish with foil to retain moisture.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
For quick reheating, the microwave works too—just be sure to add a splash of broth or water to prevent the casserole from drying out.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooking for your family, a potluck, or just need a cozy dinner fix, Dolly’s chicken and stuffing casserole never disappoints. With its creamy center, savory stuffing topping, and comforting Southern charm, it’s no wonder this recipe has won hearts across the country.
It’s simple, satisfying, and adaptable—just like Dolly Parton herself. From Stove Top shortcuts to cheesy or veggie-packed versions, you can truly make this dish your own. And thanks to how easy it is to store and reheat, it’s also ideal for meal prep.