Prepare to savor the comforting flavors of home with this classic Chicken & Dressing Casserole recipe. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish combines tender chicken, savory dressing, and a creamy sauce for a meal that satisfies the soul. Join us as we dive into the heart of this beloved Southern favorite, sharing step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and variations to suit every palate. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create a timeless dish that brings warmth and joy to the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 8-inch pan of cooled cornbread
- 3 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
- Crumble Cornbread: In a large mixing bowl, crumble the cooled cornbread into small pieces.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Add the shredded chicken, diced onion, and diced celery to the bowl with the cornbread.
- Combine Soup Mixture: In a separate saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup, butter, water, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Mix Dressing Ingredients: Pour the soup mixture over the cornbread mixture in the mixing bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Transfer Dressing Mixture: Transfer the dressing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cornbread Variation: Feel free to use your favorite cornbread recipe for this casserole. Whether it’s sweet or savory, homemade or store-bought, cornbread adds a deliciously rustic touch to the dish.
- Addition of Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the dressing by adding herbs such as sage, thyme, or rosemary. These aromatic herbs complement the savory notes of the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. The melted cheese adds a gooey, irresistible layer of goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Simply shred the cooked chicken and incorporate it into the dressing mixture as directed.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from cold.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe? A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free cornbread and ensuring that all other ingredients, such as the cream of chicken soup, are gluten-free as well.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adaptation:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify this recipe:
- Low-Carb Dressing: Substitute the cornbread with a low-carb alternative such as almond flour or coconut flour-based bread. You can also add chopped cauliflower or broccoli florets for added texture and flavor.
- Creamy Sauce: Instead of using cream of chicken soup, make a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce using heavy cream, chicken broth, and cream cheese. Season with keto-friendly herbs and spices to taste.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Southern hospitality with this delightful Chicken & Dressing Casserole. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a comforting side, this timeless recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its savory dressing, tender chicken, and creamy sauce, each bite is a taste of home that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that brings joy to every bite.
