A Cozy and Traditional Southern Favorite
Chicken and dressing casserole is deeply rooted in Southern food culture. It’s often served during Thanksgiving, Christmas, church gatherings, potlucks, and family reunions. Unlike stuffing, dressing is typically baked separately and combines cornbread with seasonings, broth, and aromatics.
This casserole takes those classic flavors and elevates them by incorporating tender chicken right into the dish. The result is a hearty one-pan meal full of rustic charm, savory warmth, and rich aroma—a dish that tastes like home.
Chicken and Dressing Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cornbread (if making homemade)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup melted butter
You can also use pre-made cornbread or store-bought cornbread mix.
For the Dressing Mixture
- 4 cups crumbled cornbread
- 2 cups day-old bread cubes (white or wheat)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 to 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust based on broth saltiness)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cornbread
If making homemade, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Let cool completely before crumbling.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, bread cubes, cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the mixture until evenly incorporated.
4. Add Liquids
Stir in beaten eggs, cream of chicken soup, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Mix gently until moist but not soupy. If needed, add more broth until the texture resembles thick, wet stuffing.
5. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly into the pan.
6. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes or until golden on top and set in the center. For a crispier crust, bake an additional 5–10 minutes.
7. Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set and slice easily.
What Makes This Dish Special
Chicken and dressing casserole stands out because it brings together everything people love about holiday meals—savory chicken, flavorful dressing, and belly-warming comfort—in one pan. It’s easy to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and reheats wonderfully.
This casserole is also flexible. You can adjust the spices, add vegetables, change the chicken style, or incorporate flavorful enhancements like sausage or herbs. Each family often has its own variation, making it an heirloom-style dish passed down through generations.
Texture and Flavor Profile
A great chicken and dressing casserole should have:
- A lightly crisped top with golden, toasted edges
- Moist and tender interior without being mushy
- Savory chicken flavor infused throughout
- Herby notes from sage and poultry seasoning
- Aromatics that bring flavor depth
- Balanced richness from broth and cream of chicken soup
This combination makes the casserole hearty yet comforting, flavorful yet humble.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and dressing casserole shines on its own, but it pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides such as:
- Green beans
- Mashed potatoes
- Collard greens
- Cranberry sauce
- Sweet potato casserole
- Corn on the cob
- Dinner rolls
- Fried okra
- Black-eyed peas
It also makes excellent leftovers, as the flavors deepen over time.
Tips for the BEST Chicken and Dressing Casserole
• Use day-old breads.
Dry bread absorbs broth better and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t skip sautéing the onions and celery.
Raw vegetables can add unwanted crunch and dilute flavor.
• Season generously.
Dressing loves herbs, especially sage and poultry seasoning.
• Add broth gradually.
You want moist dressing—not runny.
• Let it rest before serving.
This helps it firm up into perfect slices.
• Use bone-in chicken for maximum flavor.
If cooking the chicken from scratch, simmer thighs or breasts in seasoned water for richer broth.
Variations to Try
• Sausage and Chicken Dressing
Add browned breakfast sausage for extra depth.
• Cornbread-Only Version
Skip the white bread for a more traditional Southern texture.
• Spicy Chicken Dressing
Add jalapeños, Cajun seasoning, or red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Version
Leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth with sautéed mushrooms for richness.
Conclusion
Chicken and dressing casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting tradition that brings families together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors, tender texture, and homemade warmth, this classic Southern recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy meals any time of the year. Its simplicity, versatility, and heart-warming qualities make it an enduring favorite in countless kitchens.
This recipe captures everything that makes Southern cooking special: comfort, flavor, and the joy of sharing. Whether you’re preparing it for a celebration or a quiet evening at home, this casserole always delivers pure, nostalgic satisfaction in every bite.