Chicken & Dressing Casserole
Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings all the flavors of a classic Southern holiday meal into one easy-to-make recipe.
With tender shredded chicken, a savory dressing made with cornbread, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a great way to use up leftover chicken or cornbread.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spatula
Ingredients Overview
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is the base of this casserole. Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Cornbread: Adds the signature flavor and texture to the dressing. Store-bought or homemade cornbread can be used.
- Cream Soups: Combine cream of chicken and cream of celery for a creamy, savory sauce.
- Broth: Adds moisture to the dressing and enhances the flavor.
- Seasonings: Sage, thyme, and poultry seasoning give this dish its classic taste.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 4 cups cornbread, crumbled
- 1 cup white bread, cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Dressing Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cubed white bread, sautéed onion and celery, poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, and beaten eggs.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Top with the cornbread dressing mixture, spreading it evenly over the chicken layer.
- Drizzle the remaining soup mixture over the top.
5. Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
6. Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.
Recipe Tips
- Cornbread Texture: Use day-old or slightly dry cornbread to prevent the dressing from becoming too mushy.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Variations: Add cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast.
- Enjoy with a slice of warm, buttered bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey works perfectly in this casserole, making it a great way to use up holiday leftovers.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover the casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a dollop of gravy or a side of mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
- Enjoy as the main course with simple sides like roasted carrots or sautéed spinach.
Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a nostalgic, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple to prepare, hearty, and perfect for any occasion!
