Chicken Dressing Casserole Recipe

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Introduction

Chicken Dressing Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and a flavorful cornbread stuffing topping. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors in every bite. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Overview of the Recipe

This Chicken Dressing Casserole is a classic Southern-inspired dish that brings together the savory taste of chicken with the comforting flavors of cornbread stuffing. The chicken is first cooked and then mixed with a creamy sauce made from condensed soups and milk. The mixture is topped with a seasoned cornbread stuffing that is moistened with chicken broth, and the entire dish is baked to golden perfection. The result is a warm, satisfying meal that is both filling and flavorful.

History and Origin

Chicken casseroles have been a staple in American cuisine for decades, particularly in Southern cooking, where they often feature comforting, homey ingredients like cornbread, chicken, and cream soups. This particular recipe likely evolved as a way to use leftover chicken and bread, creating a new dish that could be served as a main course. Over time, it has become a beloved dish for family gatherings and special occasions, cherished for its simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base:

  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 10 ½ fluid ounces milk (use the empty soup can to measure)

For the Cornbread Stuffing Topping:

  • 1 package (6 ounces) seasoned cornbread stuffing mix
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced onion
  • Optional: 2 celery stalks, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Place 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large saucepan.
  2. Cover the chicken breasts with lightly salted water.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook the chicken until fully done, about 25-30 minutes.
  5. After cooking, remove the chicken breasts from the saucepan and set them aside to cool slightly.
  6. Reserve the cooking broth as you may use it later in the recipe or for other culinary purposes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

  1. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, cut it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Evenly spread the cut chicken pieces in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup and 1 can of condensed cream of celery soup.
  5. Using one of the empty soup cans, measure 10 ½ fluid ounces of milk.
  6. Add the milk to the soup mixture and stir until well blended.
  7. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken pieces in the baking dish, ensuring that all the chicken is covered.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Stuffing

  1. In a separate small mixing bowl, empty the contents of the 6-ounce package of seasoned cornbread stuffing mix.
  2. Pour 1 ½ cups of chicken broth over the stuffing mix.
  3. Stir the mixture until the stuffing is evenly moistened.
  4. If using, add 1/2 cup of diced onion and 2 chopped celery stalks to the stuffing mixture.
  5. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

  1. Spoon the prepared cornbread stuffing mixture evenly over the chicken and soup mixture in the baking dish.
  2. Spread the stuffing layer evenly to ensure it covers the entire surface of the casserole.
  3. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
  4. Bake the casserole for approximately 45 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the top is golden brown.
  5. After baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven.
  6. Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Dressing Casserole is best served warm and makes a perfect main dish for a hearty meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. It also pairs well with cranberry sauce or a dollop of mashed potatoes for a comforting, homestyle meal.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

  • Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • Starches: Complement the casserole with mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, or dinner rolls.
  • Cranberry Sauce: For a festive touch, add a side of cranberry sauce, which pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the casserole.
  • Beverages: Pair this dish with iced tea, lemonade, or a light herbal tea for a refreshing contrast.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Turkey Variation: Substitute the chicken with turkey for a different flavor profile, especially around the holiday season.
  • Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the stuffing mixture for an aromatic twist.
  • Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the casserole for added texture and flavor.
  • Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the stuffing before baking for a cheesy finish.

Health Benefits Notes

While this Chicken Dressing Casserole is a comfort food at its core, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

  • Protein: The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of celery and onions adds vitamins A, C, and K, along with important minerals like potassium.
  • Moderation: To keep this dish on the lighter side, you can use reduced-sodium soups and opt for a lower-fat milk.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Q2: Can I use leftover chicken or turkey? Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken or turkey can be used in place of the freshly cooked chicken. This is a great way to use up holiday leftovers.

Q3: How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling the casserole (but before baking), cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q5: What can I use instead of cornbread stuffing mix? If you don’t have cornbread stuffing mix, you can use any seasoned bread stuffing mix. You can also make your own by toasting and seasoning cubed cornbread.

Conclusion

Chicken Dressing Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or just because, this casserole is packed with flavor and satisfies the craving for something hearty and warm. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy stuffing topping, this dish is a wonderful way to bring the family together around the dinner table. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and create lasting memories with every bite.

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