If you’re on the hunt for a comforting dish that perfectly combines the savory goodness of chicken with the warmth of classic dressing, you’re in for something special.
Our Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a true delight—simple to make and sure to please your palate. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s explore the step-by-step process of creating this irresistible dish.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This Chicken and Dressing Casserole is ideal for:
- Families: It’s a wholesome meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Busy People: With its easy prep and make-ahead options, it’s perfect for anyone juggling a busy lifestyle.
- Southern Cuisine Enthusiasts: For those who savor rich, comforting flavors, this casserole is a must-try.
Why It Shines
What sets this casserole apart is its perfect balance of ingredients and flavors. Tender chicken, savory dressing, and creamy gravy come together to create an irresistible dish. Plus, it’s adaptable—whether you prefer a hint of sage or a kick of spice, you can tailor it to suit your tastes.
Let’s dive into the key features that make this recipe a standout:
- Flavorful Chicken Starting with four cups of shredded chicken, this casserole is packed with flavor and protein. The poultry seasoning and sage give it a cozy, rich taste that enhances the overall dish.
- Comforting Dressing At the heart of the casserole is a delicious cornbread or dried bread stuffing. It adds that signature texture and taste, while chopped celery and onions bring a delightful crunch and aromatic touch.
- Silky Gravy The creamy gravy elevates the dish from good to exceptional. Made from a blend of butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, and flour, it’s seasoned just right and ties all the components together with moisture and richness.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Before we get started on the recipe, gather the following kitchen tools:
- 9 x 13-inch baking dish
- Skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
With your equipment ready, we can dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded chicken
- 4 cups cubed cornbread or dried bread
- ⅓ cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 can cream of onion soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- ½ tsp dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Sauté:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the chopped onions and celery to the skillet. Sauté until they become tender and aromatic.
2. Mix and Prep:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed cornbread (or dried bread), shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, dried sage, poultry seasoning, cream of onion soup, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Grease the 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.
4. Make the Gravy:
- In a skillet, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter.
- Add ¼ cup of flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook until the roux starts to brown slightly.
- Gradually whisk in some of the remaining chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer until the gravy thickens, then stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Pour the creamy gravy over the baked casserole.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken and pre-made cornbread stuffing mix to save time.
- Recipe Swap: Substitute the cream of onion soup with cream of chicken or cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy for a bit of heat.