Absolutely! Here’s a full, rich write-up on **Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole**, including all the sections you requested:
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## **Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole**
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### **Introduction**
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the definition of down-home comfort food. It’s a warm, hearty, and soul-soothing dish made from tender chicken, creamy sauce, savory stuffing, and often a touch of love. Inspired by the flavors of Southern hospitality and the simplicity of a one-pan meal, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy Sunday suppers.
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### **Origin**
While this dish isn’t directly from Dolly Parton’s published recipes, it’s affectionately named in honor of her Southern roots and the kind of wholesome, home-cooked meals her name evokes. Chicken and stuffing casseroles are deeply rooted in mid-20th-century American cooking—especially popularized in the South and Midwest—where pantry staples and leftovers were creatively transformed into satisfying meals. It brings together rotisserie or leftover chicken, stuffing mix, and a creamy sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
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### **Cultural Significance**
This casserole carries the spirit of Southern comfort cuisine. In many families, it’s a generational favorite—often scribbled on a recipe card or passed along by word of mouth. It symbolizes warmth, togetherness, and the cherished tradition of gathering around the table. Whether served at holidays or on an ordinary weekday, it brings a taste of nostalgia and a sense of home.
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### **Ingredients Quantity** *(Serves 6–8)*
**For the Casserole:**
– 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed; rotisserie works great)
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Stuffing Topping:**
– 1 (6 oz) box stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth or water
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### **Optional Additions**
– Add 1 cup cooked vegetables (like peas, carrots, or green beans) to the chicken mixture
– Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella for extra richness
– Sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or French-fried onions on top for crunch
– A dash of poultry seasoning or thyme for added savory depth
– Replace stuffing mix with homemade day-old cornbread crumbs for a rustic twist
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### **Tips for Success**
– Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
– Don’t over-saturate the stuffing—it should be moist but not soggy.
– Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
– Bake uncovered for a crispy topping or cover with foil for a softer finish.
– Taste the creamy filling before assembling to adjust seasoning levels.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat oven** to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13” casserole dish.
2. In a large bowl, **mix the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings** until well combined.
3. **Spread the chicken mixture** evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, **combine stuffing mix, melted butter, and chicken broth** until moistened.
5. **Spread the stuffing mixture** over the chicken layer.
6. **Bake for 30–35 minutes**, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
7. Let sit a few minutes before serving.
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### **Description**
Each forkful delivers creamy, savory chicken beneath a perfectly seasoned, buttery stuffing crust. It’s rich without being too heavy, and the stuffing topping brings just the right amount of crunch and comfort. The flavors feel like Thanksgiving in a single dish, but without the hassle of a holiday meal.
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### **Nutritional Information** *(approx. per serving, based on 8 servings)*
– Calories: 390
– Protein: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 22g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Sodium: 880mg
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 2g
*(Note: Nutritional values vary based on specific brands and portions.)*
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### **Conclusion**
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a cozy, satisfying meal that captures the spirit of Southern comfort with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple pantry ingredients, and feeds a crowd with little effort. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a lazy Sunday night, it brings warmth, flavor, and a whole lot of heart.
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### **Recommendation**
Serve with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. It also pairs well with cranberry sauce or a dollop of gravy for that holiday-style touch. Leftovers reheat beautifully—just pop it in the oven or microwave and enjoy it all over again.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
You can enjoy this nostalgic dish while still making mindful choices. Swap in low-sodium soup, light sour cream or Greek yogurt, and reduced-fat butter. Use whole-grain stuffing mix or make your own from scratch with whole wheat bread. Sneak in extra vegetables for added fiber and nutrients. Healthful indulgence isn’t about giving up comfort—it’s about enjoying it in balance.
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