Chicken and Dressing Casserole

There’s something magical about a warm, homemade chicken dressing casserole. It’s like a cozy hug in a dish savory, rich, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste of grandma’s kitchen or looking for the perfect holiday side dish, this recipe delivers in every way. The best part? It’s super easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste!

In this guide, we’ll break everything down step by step, from ingredients to common mistakes and expert tips. Let’s dive in and make the best chicken dressing casserole you’ve ever had!

What is Chicken Dressing Casserole?

Before we get into the details, let’s answer a simple question what exactly is chicken dressing casserole? Well, think of it as a delightful mash-up of cornbread dressing (a Thanksgiving classic) and a creamy chicken bake. It’s a Southern staple that combines shredded chicken, seasoned dressing (or stuffing), and a rich, buttery sauce. Every bite is packed with flavor, and the crispy golden top adds the perfect texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✔️ Easy to make – No complicated steps, just simple ingredients.
• ✔️ Perfect for meal prep – Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers all week.
• ✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, change the seasoning, or make it creamy.
• ✔️ Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love it!
• ✔️ Great for holidays – A crowd-favorite side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Dressing Casserole

The key to an amazing chicken dressing casserole is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to take your chicken dressing casserole to the next level? Try adding:

• Mushrooms – Adds a rich, earthy flavor.
• Chopped pecans – A slight crunch makes a big difference.
• Cheese – Melted cheddar or Parmesan on top = heavenly.
• Cranberries – A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start assembling your chicken dressing casserole, it’s best to prep everything. Here’s how:

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

If you’re using raw chicken, you’ll need to cook it first. Boil or bake it until fully cooked, then shred it with two forks. Short on time? A rotisserie chicken works just as well!

Step 2: Make the Cornbread

If you don’t have pre-made cornbread, now’s the time to whip some up! A simple boxed cornbread mix works great, but homemade is even better. Let it cool completely before crumbling.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

Dice your onions and celery finely. This helps them cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the dressing.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, onions, celery, sage, salt, and pepper. This forms the base of your casserole.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Dressing Casserole

• Don’t overdo the broth. Too much liquid can make your dressing mushy.
• Use day-old cornbread. Fresh cornbread can be too soft, making the casserole gummy.
• Toast your cornbread crumbs. A quick toast in the oven adds extra texture.
• Let it rest. Once baked, let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle.

Now that we’ve covered all the ingredients and prep work, it’s time to assemble and bake this delicious dish! In the next part, we’ll walk through the cooking process step by step, along with troubleshooting common problems. Stay tuned!

How to Assemble and Bake Chicken Dressing Casserole

Now that we’ve prepped our ingredients, it’s time for the fun part—putting everything together and baking it to golden perfection! This step is where all the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a warm, comforting chicken dressing casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that beautiful golden crust on top.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and gives your casserole a rich, savory depth.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Crumbled cornbread
• Sautéed onion and celery
• 1 teaspoon of sage (or more if you love that classic dressing taste!)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 2 beaten eggs
• 2 cups of chicken broth

Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not soupy. If it feels too dry, add a little more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, then spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. If you love a crunchier top, you can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even the best recipes can sometimes go wrong, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are the most common issues people face when making chicken dressing casserole and how to fix them.

Problem 1: My Dressing is Too Dry

If your casserole turns out too dry, it means there wasn’t enough liquid or the oven temperature was too high.

How to Fix It:

• Drizzle warm chicken broth over the casserole and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Cover with aluminum foil while baking to retain moisture.
• Next time, add more broth before baking.

Problem 2: My Dressing is Too Soggy

If your dressing is mushy or watery, you may have added too much broth or not baked it long enough.

How to Fix It:

• Bake for an extra 10-15 minutes uncovered to dry it out.
• Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving—it thickens as it cools.
• Next time, reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Problem 3: It’s Bland and Lacks Flavor

Dressing should be packed with flavor! If it tastes plain, it might be missing the right seasonings.

How to Fix It:

• Add more sage, thyme, or poultry seasoning before baking.
• Make sure your chicken is well-seasoned before adding it.
• A dash of garlic powder or black pepper can enhance the taste.

Problem 4: The Top Isn’t Crispy Enough

If you love a crispy, golden top but your casserole comes out too soft, here’s what to do.

How to Fix It:

• Turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Brush the top with a little melted butter before baking.
• Add a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs or shredded cheese for extra crunch.

Variations of Chicken Dressing Casserole

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

Southern-Style Chicken Dressing Casserole

• Use buttermilk cornbread for an authentic Southern taste.
• Add chopped boiled eggs for extra richness.
• Mix in a little cooked sausage for a savory twist.

Healthy & Low-Carb Alternatives

• Replace cornbread with almond flour bread for a keto-friendly option.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream of chicken soup.
• Add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Slow Cooker vs. Oven-Baked Method

• Oven-Baked: Best for a crispy top and traditional texture.
• Slow Cooker: Great for a hands-off approach. Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours.

Serving Suggestions

A warm plate of chicken dressing casserole is amazing on its own, but it pairs perfectly with these side dishes:

• Mashed potatoes – Double the comfort factor!
• Green beans – A fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Cranberry sauce – The sweet-tart flavor balances the richness.
• Sweet potato casserole – A Southern favorite.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (based on 8 servings):

Now that we’ve covered baking, troubleshooting, and serving ideas, it’s time to talk about storing leftovers and reheating! In the next section, we’ll go over the best ways to store your casserole and keep it tasting fresh. Stay tuned!

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Dressing Casserole

So, you’ve made an amazing chicken dressing casserole, and now you’re wondering what to do with the leftovers. The good news? This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later in the week!

How to Store in the Refrigerator

If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, store them in the fridge. Follow these steps for the best results:

• Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage

If you want to keep your chicken dressing casserole for longer, freezing is the way to go. Here’s how:

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

For easy portioning, consider freezing individual servings in airtight containers or freezer bags. That way, you can reheat only what you need!

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

Reheating properly is key to keeping your chicken dressing casserole moist and delicious. Here are the best methods:

Oven (Best for Large Portions)

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

Microwave (Best for Quick Reheating)

• Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.
• Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.

Stovetop (For Smaller Portions)

• Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add a small amount of butter or broth.
• Stir frequently until warmed through.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Dressing Casserole

Want to perfect your chicken dressing casserole every time? Follow these expert tips:

Choose the Right Type of Bread

The type of cornbread you use makes a huge difference. Traditional Southern-style cornbread (without added sugar) works best, but you can also mix in day-old white bread for extra texture.

Don’t Skimp on Seasoning

Sage, thyme, and black pepper are essential for that classic dressing flavor. If you like a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a subtle kick.

Keep It Moist but Not Mushy

The key to a perfect texture is balancing your liquids. If your mixture looks too dry before baking, add a bit more broth. If it looks too wet, add a little more crumbled cornbread.

Let It Rest Before Serving

Once your casserole is done baking, resist the urge to dig in right away! Let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to experiment! Try adding:

• Chopped pecans for a nutty crunch.
• Cooked sausage for extra savory flavor.
• Cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
• Melted cheese on top for a gooey finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just remove the skin and shred the meat before mixing it in.

How Far in Advance Can I Make This Casserole?

You can prepare the casserole 1-2 days ahead and store it (unbaked) in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade dairy-free version (or a plant-based alternative). You can also use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk in the cornbread.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

• Southern Chicken Dressing
• Chicken and Dressing Recipe
• What is Chicken and Dressing Made Of?

Conclusion

And there you have it the ultimate chicken dressing casserole recipe! Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With its comforting flavors, crispy golden top, and moist, savory filling, it’s no wonder this casserole has stood the test of time.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, tweak it to your taste, and let me know how it turns out.

Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!

Chicken and Dressing Casserole

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken and Dressing Casserole is the perfect comfort food. A Southern classic, it combines moist shredded chicken, crumbled cornbread dressing, and a creamy, savory sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and full of rich flavor. Serve it with your favorite sides for a heartwarming meal.

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Ingredients

Casserole Base

Cooked Chicken – 3 cups, shredded
Cornbread – 4 cups, crumbled (homemade or store-bought)
Chicken Broth – 2 cups
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
Butter – ½ cup
Eggs – 2, beaten
Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
Sage – 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper – to taste

Optional Add-Ins

Mushrooms – for an earthy depth of flavor
Chopped Pecans – for added crunch
Shredded Cheese – cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness
Cranberries – for a sweet and savory balance

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cook and shred the chicken if not using rotisserie chicken
Crumble cornbread and let it dry slightly for better texture
Finely chop the onion and celery

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C)

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt ½ cup butter in a skillet over medium heat
Add chopped onion and celery and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes)

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed onion and celery, shredded chicken, sage, salt, and pepper
Stir in cream of chicken soup, beaten eggs, and chicken broth
Mix until well combined, ensuring the mixture is moist but not overly wet

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes until the top is golden brown
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle

Notes

Use day-old cornbread for the best texture
If the casserole is too dry, drizzle with extra warm chicken broth after baking
For extra flavor, add a dash of poultry seasoning or thyme
If preparing in advance, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight before baking
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cornbread and cream of chicken soup

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Chicken and Dressing Casserole, Southern Chicken Casserole, Holiday Dressing, Thanksgiving Casserole, Comfort Food