Chicken & Dressing Casserole

There are few things in life as comforting as a warm, hearty dish that reminds you of home. Our Chicken & Dressing Casserole is one of those recipes that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole combines tender chicken, savory cornbread, and a medley of flavorful seasonings, creating a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken & Dressing Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience. You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and brings a sense of nostalgia with its classic combination of ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized pot with lid
• Large mixing bowl
• Sauté pan
• Greased baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two forks for shredding

Ingredients:

• 3-4 chicken breasts (2 lbs.)
• 1 14-oz can chicken broth
• 3 stalks celery, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 pan of cornbread* (6 servings), crumbled
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning (plus more to taste if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 boiled eggs, peeled and diced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Slowly cook the chicken breasts in the broth over medium-low heat in a covered pot until they are cooked through. Be careful not to boil them too hard, or they may become tough. Once cooked, remove the chicken, allow it to cool, and then shred it with two forks or dice into bite-sized pieces. Cover and set aside. Measure out two cups of chicken stock and set aside.
2. While the chicken is cooking, sauté the celery and onion in butter until the onion becomes translucent.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the reserved 2 cups of chicken stock, cream of chicken soup, salt, poultry seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to mix.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, shredded chicken, sautéed veggies (along with the butter), chicken stock mixture, and diced boiled eggs (if using). Mix everything well. Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush cooking the chicken; slow and steady ensures it stays tender.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Allow the casserole to rest after baking so it can set nicely, making serving easier.

Additional Tips and Variations

To add more flavor, consider mixing in some cooked sausage or adding chopped herbs like parsley or thyme. If you prefer a spicier dish, a pinch of cayenne pepper can do wonders.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Dressing Casserole is the perfect remedy for a busy week or a special family gathering. It’s simple, tasty, and sure to become a staple in your household. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear your feedback and any personal touches you added to make it your own. Enjoy!