Chicken & Dressing Casserole

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that blends the hearty goodness of chicken with the cozy, savory taste of dressing, you’re in for a delicious surprise.

Our Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a simple yet delightful dish that’s sure to make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re preparing a warm meal for your family on a quiet weekend or hosting a dinner party, this casserole will definitely be a hit.

Let’s walk through how to make this irresistible dish, one step at a time.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This Chicken and Dressing Casserole is perfect for:

• Families: A satisfying meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
• Busy Cooks: Easy to prepare and ideal for making ahead, it’s great for anyone with a packed schedule.
• Food Lovers: If you enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Southern cooking, this casserole is a must-try.

Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment Needed: Skillet, large mixing bowl, 9×13-inch baking dish, whisk

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded chicken
• 4 cups cornbread or cubed 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

Step 1: Preheat and Sauté

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onions and celery, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine cornbread (or dried bread), shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, dried sage, poultry seasoning, cream of onion soup, and 1 cup of chicken broth.
2. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly into the dish.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

1. In a skillet, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour to create a roux, cooking until it lightly browns.
3. Gradually add the remaining chicken broth while whisking continuously.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer until the gravy thickens.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Once the casserole is done, drizzle the creamy gravy over the top.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color and freshness.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful tips:

• Freshness boost: You can toss in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions before baking for a brighter flavor.
• Cheesy goodness: Feel free to sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before baking for extra creaminess and a nice golden color.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with roasted turkey for a seasonal variation.
• Bread Alternative: Consider cornbread mix or blend regular and multigrain bread varieties.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk and use plant-based butter.

Pro Tips

• Enhance flavor by browning the bread cubes in the oven before adding.
• Mix in diced cooked breakfast sausage or chopped bacon bits for depth.
• Allow the finished casserole to stand 10 minutes post-baking for optimal taste.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storing Leftovers: Keep refrigerated in sealed containers up to 4 days.
• Reheating Instructions: Heat single servings in microwave 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing Instructions: Store baked dish in freezer-safe container up to 3 months. Defrost in refrigerator overnight before heating.

Best Pairings

• Side Dish: Accompany with garden-fresh green salad or oven-roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Drink: Match with light Sauvignon Blanc wine or seasonal apple cider.
• Dessert: Follow with traditional pecan pie or cinnamon-spiced baked apples.

This Chicken & Dressing Casserole delivers classic comfort with its rich flavors and smooth, luxurious texture. Perfect for holiday celebrations or regular family meals, this versatile dish always impresses guests. Experiment with different ingredients and accompaniments to customize it to your preferences. Savor each delicious mouthful!

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