Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken and dressing casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s so easy to whip up, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if you’re just trying to clean out the fridge! I remember the first time I made it—I was juggling a million things, and I thought, “Okay, let’s see if this works.” Spoiler alert: it turned out amazing! The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy cornbread stuffing makes this casserole a hit every single time. You’ll want to keep this recipe close; it’s bound to become a staple in your home, too!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting chicken and dressing casserole that your whole family will love! Trust me, having everything ready and measured makes the process so much smoother.
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken you have on hand.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor; low-sodium is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Fresh celery gives a nice crunch and flavor; make sure it’s diced evenly!
- 1 cup onion, chopped: I love using yellow onion for its sweetness, but feel free to use whatever you have.
- 1 tablespoon butter: This is for sautéing the vegetables and adds richness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that delicious savory kick; you can also use minced fresh garlic if you prefer.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It enhances the onion flavor; trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for flavor, but regular ground works too.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, especially if your broth is salty.
- 1 package (8 oz) cornbread stuffing mix: This is the star of the show, adding texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk gives it creaminess, but any milk will do.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This melts beautifully on top; feel free to use your favorite cheese!
And there you have it! Just these straightforward ingredients, and you’re ready to make something delicious. Don’t you just love when cooking feels this easy? Let’s move on to the fun part—preparing this delightful casserole!
How to Prepare Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this chicken and dressing casserole! I promise it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as casserole?). Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly throughout. Nobody likes a cold middle, right? So, while that’s heating up, you can get everything else ready!
Sauté the Vegetables
Next, grab a skillet and melt that tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly (you’ll smell that buttery goodness!), toss in the chopped celery and onion. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re soft and fragrant. You want the onions to be translucent and the celery to lose that raw crunch—just perfect!
Combine the Ingredients
Now, let’s mix things up! In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, the sautéed veggies, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. It’s like a flavor party in there! Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You want those seasonings to coat the chicken and veggies evenly for the best flavor.
Add Cornbread Stuffing and Milk
Ready for the magic? Now, add your cornbread stuffing mix and milk to the bowl. This is where things get real! Gently fold everything together until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix—this will keep your casserole light and fluffy! The stuffing should soak up that delicious broth and milk, creating a cozy texture.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Now it’s time to transfer this heavenly mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish is crucial; it prevents sticking and makes for an easy clean-up afterward. Just scoop the mixture in and spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
Add Cheese and Bake
Finally, sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Who doesn’t love a cheesy crust? Now, pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. Oh, the smell will be irresistible! Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—it’ll be hot, hot, hot!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dressing Casserole
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and fluffy cornbread stuffing creates a warm, nostalgic dish that feels like home.
- Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or spices; it’s versatile and can be adapted to what you have on hand.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
- One-Dish Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal—just bake and serve right from the dish!
Tips for Success
Want to ensure your chicken and dressing casserole turns out perfectly every time? I’ve got you covered with some handy tips that I’ve picked up from years of delicious experimentation in the kitchen!
- Use Quality Chicken: Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken or leftovers, make sure it’s flavorful and moist. A good quality chicken makes all the difference in taste!
- Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing the celery and onion is key! It really brings out their flavor and sweetness, adding depth to your casserole. Plus, nobody likes crunchy raw veggies in a soft dish!
- Mix Gently: When you combine the stuffing mix and milk, be gentle! Overmixing can make your casserole dense. You want it fluffy and light, so a few gentle folds are all you need.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to sneak in some herbs like thyme or sage for an aromatic twist. You can also throw in some cooked vegetables like peas or carrots to boost nutrition and color!
- Check the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking at the 30-minute mark. You want that cheese bubbly and the edges golden, but not overcooked!
- Let it Rest: After baking, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to serve and eat!
- Leftover Love: Don’t forget that leftovers can be reimagined! Use them in wraps, or serve over rice or salad for a quick lunch the next day. It’s just as good, I promise!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a chicken and dressing casserole pro in no time! Enjoy the process and the delicious results—your family will be raving about this dish for days!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for this comforting chicken and dressing casserole. Please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. It’s always a good idea to check your labels for the most accurate information!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a wonderful addition to your family meals!
FAQ Section
Got questions about chicken and dressing casserole? I’ve been there! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my tried-and-true answers to help you along the way.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before using. You can even cook your chicken from frozen in a pressure cooker, but for this recipe, cooked chicken is best for that tender texture.
What can I substitute for cornbread stuffing mix?
If you can’t find cornbread stuffing mix, you can use regular stuffing mix or make your own by crumbling cornbread or bread and adding some seasonings. Just ensure you have that lovely texture!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in peas, carrots, or even some chopped spinach for extra nutrition. Just make sure they’re chopped small or pre-cooked so they blend in well with the casserole.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free cornbread stuffing mix, this casserole is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels to be safe, and you’re good to go!
Hopefully, that clears up some of the questions you might have! This chicken and dressing casserole is super flexible, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken and Dressing Casserole: 7 Irresistible Comfort Tips
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting chicken and dressing casserole that is easy to prepare and perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (8 oz) cornbread stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté celery and onion until soft.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, and seasonings.
- Add cornbread stuffing mix and milk. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Notes
- You can use leftover chicken for this recipe.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken and dressing casserole, chicken casserole, comfort food
