Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Today, we’re diving into the realm of comfort food with a timeless classic: Chicken Dressing Casserole. This dish is the epitome of home-cooked goodness, combining tender chicken, creamy soups, and savory stuffing into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of celery soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 10 ½ fluid ounces of milk
- 1 package (6 ounces) of seasoned cornbread stuffing mix
- 1 ½ cups of chicken broth
- Optional adds: 1/2 cup diced onion, 2 celery stalks chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts over medium heat until they are no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Soups and Milk:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until well blended.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the seasoned cornbread stuffing mix evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the cooked chicken pieces over the stuffing layer.
- If using, sprinkle the diced onion and chopped celery over the chicken.
- Pour the soup and milk mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients:
- Sprinkle the remaining half of the seasoned cornbread stuffing mix over the top of the casserole.
- Pour the chicken broth evenly over the stuffing layer.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Scoop generous portions onto plates and savor every comforting bite.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Moisture Control: If you prefer a less moist casserole, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth used or drain any excess liquid after baking.
- Customize Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the soup mixture for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with diced vegetables or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: How can I make this casserole keto-friendly? A: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, you can omit the cornbread stuffing mix and use a low-carb alternative. You can also replace the condensed soups with homemade keto-friendly versions or use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth for the creamy base.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Omit the cornbread stuffing mix and use a keto-friendly alternative made with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk and homemade keto-friendly cream of chicken and cream of celery soups.
- Ensure all added ingredients are low in carbs and keto-friendly, such as onions and celery.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version instructions but incorporate low-carb alternatives for the stuffing mix and soups.
- You can also reduce the amount of onion and celery or omit them entirely to further decrease the carb content.
In conclusion, Chicken Dressing Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. With its creamy texture, hearty chicken, and flavorful stuffing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with keto and low-carb variations, this casserole is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies with its irresistible goodness. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a taste of home with this delightful Chicken Dressing Casserole.
