Looking for a warm, hearty dish that the whole family will love? Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is your answer! This simple recipe combines tender chicken with flavorful stuffing for a meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. In this post, I’ll share the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the perfect casserole. Let’s dive in and bring some comfort to your dinner table!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, gather these ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups stuffing mix
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap out some ingredients, here are some ideas:
– Chicken: Use turkey for a different flavor.
– Celery: Leeks can work well if you want a sweeter taste.
– Onion: Scallions add a mild onion flavor.
– Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a richer taste.
– Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a great option for a lighter broth.
– Stuffing Mix: Homemade stuffing adds freshness and flavor.
– Cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
– Thyme: Oregano or rosemary can bring a new taste to the dish.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole serves six. Each serving has:
– Calories: 380
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 650mg
This dish packs great flavor while being a comfort food that fills you up.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for a great bake.
2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1 cup of finely chopped onion. Mix these well.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of chicken broth to the bowl. Stir until everything blends nicely.
4. Now, fold in 2 cups of stuffing mix, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure all pieces are coated well.
5. Pour this chicken and stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the dish.
Baking Instructions
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of your mixture. This cheese will add flavor and a nice crust.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. Watch for the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.
9. Once it’s done, carefully take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps set the layers.
10. Before serving, garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips for Achieving a Perfectly Cooked Casserole
– Always make sure your chicken is fully cooked before shredding. This helps with flavor.
– Use fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh celery and onion add great taste.
– Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving helps keep it together when you scoop it.
– Feel free to adjust the seasoning. If you love herbs, add more thyme or even rosemary.
– Keep an eye on the cheese as it bakes. You want it golden but not burnt.
By following these steps, you will create a comforting dish that is sure to please!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few mistakes can ruin your casserole. First, do not skip the garlic powder. It adds great flavor. Second, make sure to mix well. This helps all the ingredients blend together. Lastly, don’t overcook. Keep an eye on the cheese to avoid burning.
How to Make Ahead and Freeze
You can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare everything as the recipe shows. Then, cover it with foil and freeze it. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake as you normally would for a warm meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole goes well with many sides. Try serving it with green beans or a fresh salad. You can also add some cranberry sauce for a sweet touch. For drinks, lemonade or iced tea pairs nicely.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients for Different Flavors
You can change things up in Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. For a twist, use rotisserie chicken. It adds a nice flavor. You could also swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. This gives a different taste and keeps it light. If you want more crunch, add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers. These add a fresh bite to each forkful.
Vegetarian or Vegan Options
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas. They provide protein and texture. Use vegetable broth and a vegan cream of soup. You can find these at most stores. For a vegan stuffing, look for brands that don’t use animal products. A mix of wild rice and veggies can work well, too. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without meat!
Gluten-Free Substitutions
If you’re aiming for gluten-free, swap regular stuffing mix for gluten-free bread crumbs or a gluten-free stuffing mix. Make sure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, too. You can easily find options at the store. For a homemade touch, blend cooked cauliflower with herbs and spices. This will give you a creamy base, all while keeping it gluten-free. These changes let you enjoy the casserole while sticking to your dietary needs.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can also keep it in the baking dish. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to eat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes. If you want, you can microwave individual portions. Heat them for about 2-3 minutes. Check that it’s hot throughout before eating.
Best Practices for Keeping Freshness
To keep your casserole fresh, always store it in an airtight container. This prevents the casserole from drying out. Make sure to consume leftovers within three days for the best taste. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
FAQs
What is the best type of chicken to use in this casserole?
The best type of chicken for this casserole is cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or poached chicken. Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time. Make sure to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
Can I use homemade stuffing instead of pre-packaged?
Yes, you can use homemade stuffing. Fresh stuffing adds a personal touch and unique flavor. Just make sure your homemade stuffing is moist but not too soggy. Adjust the seasonings to match the flavors in the casserole, like thyme or garlic.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
This casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to thaw and reheat it properly before serving.
This blog post covered essential tips for making a delicious casserole. We discussed ingredients, preparation steps, and baking tips for success. I shared common mistakes to avoid and helpful storage information. You learned about variations to suit different tastes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
With these insights, you can cook a tasty casserole that fits your needs. Don’t forget to try different ingredients and enjoy the process. Happy cooking!
