Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken and dressing casserole! This hearty dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture tender, shredded chicken nestled in a bed of savory cornbread stuffing, all baked to golden perfection. I love making this casserole when I need a little extra coziness in my life or when I have friends over for dinner. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, filling the house with mouthwatering aromas that make you feel right at home. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it part of your regular rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Chicken and Dressing Casserole 2
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious chicken and dressing casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cornbread stuffing mix
Make sure to use cooked chicken—leftovers work great here! The cream of chicken soup adds a rich, creamy texture, while the cornbread stuffing mix gives it that classic, comforting flavor. You can even toss in some extra veggies if you like, just to get a little more nutrition in there. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken and Dressing Casserole 2
Now, let’s get to the exciting part—preparing your chicken and dressing casserole! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a cozy dinner.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps your casserole bake evenly and develop that delicious golden crust we all love. So, don’t skip this step!
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, chopped celery, chopped onion, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. I like to use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s well blended. The smell of the onion and thyme will start to fill the air, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
Add Stuffing Mix
Next, it’s time to add the cornbread stuffing mix to your chicken mixture. Gently fold it in until everything is well combined. This is where the magic happens! The stuffing mix will soak up all those flavorful juices, making every bite a burst of comfort. Just be careful not to over-mix, as we want to keep that nice, fluffy texture.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and carefully transfer your mixture into it. Spread it out evenly with your spatula, making sure it’s nice and level. This way, it’ll bake evenly all the way through!
Baking Time
Finally, pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—you’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.
- This casserole is super comforting, bringing that warm, homey feeling right to your table.
- It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it a smart choice for meal prep!
- The combination of flavors is rich and savory, with every bite being a delicious reminder of home-cooked goodness.
- You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it unique every time.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love—perfect for family gatherings or potlucks!
- This casserole is freezer-friendly, so you can whip up a big batch and save some for later!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your chicken and dressing casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Use Quality Chicken: Whether you’re using leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie, make sure it’s flavorful. The better the chicken, the tastier your casserole will be!
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating your oven is crucial. It helps create that lovely golden crust on top and ensures even cooking. A cold oven can lead to uneven baking!
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your liking! If you love garlic, add some minced garlic to the mix. If you want a little kick, throw in some red pepper flakes.
- Mix Gently: When adding the stuffing mix, be careful not to over-mix. You want to keep that light and fluffy texture, so just fold it in until combined.
- Add Extra Veggies: Want to boost the nutrition? Toss in some peas, carrots, or even mushrooms! They’ll add color and flavor, and no one will even notice the extra veggies.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. If it’s not quite golden after 35 minutes, give it a few more minutes. Just watch for that bubbly goodness and golden top!
- Let It Rest: Once you take it out of the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set up a bit more and makes it easier to serve.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for success! Enjoy the process and don’t forget to taste along the way—you’ll be amazed at how delicious it can be!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! While comfort food like chicken and dressing casserole is all about flavor and satisfaction, it’s also good to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose and any modifications you make. So, feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying this delicious comfort food!
FAQ Section
I know you’ve got questions, and I’m here to help! Let’s go over some common queries about chicken and dressing casserole that might pop up as you whip up this delightful dish.
Can I use a different type of soup?
Absolutely! While cream of chicken soup is classic, you can switch it up with cream of mushroom or even cream of celery if that’s what you have on hand. Each variation will give your casserole a unique twist.
What if I don’t have cornbread stuffing mix?
No worries! You can use regular bread stuffing mix or even homemade stuffing. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It might take a little longer in the oven if it’s chilled, so keep an eye on it!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop it back in the oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking again.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to toss in your favorites! I love adding peas, carrots, or even some spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Just chop them up and mix them in with the other ingredients. They’ll cook beautifully as the casserole bakes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! You can substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Just keep the cream of chicken soup or swap it for a cream of mushroom version for that same creamy goodness!
I hope this helps answer your questions and gets you even more excited to make this chicken and dressing casserole! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve savored your delicious chicken and dressing casserole, let’s talk about how to keep those leftovers fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key to enjoying this comfort food even after the first round.
To store your leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This step is important because sealing it while still warm can create moisture that leads to sogginess. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a quick meal.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, you’ve got a couple of great reheating options! If you’re in a hurry, just pop a single serving in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Stir it halfway through to ensure even heating. If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent it from drying out. The goal is to warm it just enough so it’s cozy and comforting, just like the first time!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of your chicken and dressing casserole any day of the week. Happy munching!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious chicken and dressing casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your dinner to a whole new level of comfort and satisfaction.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect way to balance the richness of the casserole. It adds a nice crunch and a refreshing contrast!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. They’re not just tasty, but colorful too!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist some warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce and adds that comforting element to your meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce can bring a lovely sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
- Mashed Potatoes: If you’re looking for ultimate comfort, serve some creamy mashed potatoes on the side. They’re perfect for mopping up all the deliciousness from your casserole!
- Sautéed Greens: Sauté some spinach or kale with garlic for a nutritious and flavorful side. The slight bitterness of the greens can wonderfully balance the richness of the casserole.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or what you have on hand. The goal is to create a cozy, satisfying dinner experience that everyone will love. Enjoy your meal!
Print
Chicken and Dressing Casserole 2: 7 Heartwarming Secrets
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty chicken and dressing casserole that combines tender chicken with savory dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cornbread stuffing mix
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, celery, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cornbread stuffing mix and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker prep.
- Add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken and dressing casserole
