Bring the taste of comfort to your table with this Chicken and Dressing Casserole! This dish combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce in one deliciously satisfying casserole. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, Sunday supper, or when you need to feed a crowd with minimal effort. With layers of flavor in every bite, this classic Southern-inspired dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe for a warm and cozy meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken (3 cups, shredded or cubed)
- Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Celery (2 stalks, diced)
- Butter (½ cup, divided)
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
- Chicken broth (1 ½ cups)
- Poultry seasoning (1 tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Sage (½ tsp, optional)
- Stuffing mix (1 package, about 6 oz or 3 cups)
- Eggs (2 large, beaten)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt ¼ cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and ½ cup of chicken broth. Add the poultry seasoning, black pepper, and optional sage. Stir in the sautéed onions and celery, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing
In a separate bowl, mix the stuffing with 1 cup of chicken broth and ¼ cup of melted butter. Add the beaten eggs and stir until the stuffing is well-moistened but not soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the stuffing mixture on top, spreading it evenly to cover the chicken completely.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this casserole with a side of green beans, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a delicious post-holiday meal.
- Add extra flavor by incorporating sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or garlic.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an additional ½ cup of chicken broth or milk to the chicken mixture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Paula Deen recommends adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Trisha Yearwood suggests using a combination of white and dark meat chicken for more flavor and moisture.
Ree Drummond advises sprinkling a little grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cornbread stuffing instead of regular stuffing mix?
Yes, cornbread stuffing adds a wonderful flavor and texture to the casserole.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soups and a gluten-free stuffing mix.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
Substitute with another can of cream of chicken soup or use cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
Can I add cheese to this casserole?
Absolutely! Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese with the chicken layer, or sprinkle on top before baking.
How can I make the stuffing crispier?
Bake uncovered for the entire cooking time, or broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can enhance the flavor. Double the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
Make sure to add enough broth to keep the stuffing moist, and bake covered for most of the cooking time.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or pork can work as a tasty alternative to chicken.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables, or a side of coleslaw for a balanced meal.
Enjoy your Chicken and Dressing Casserole—a dish that brings all the comfort of home cooking to your dinner table!
