Chicken Dressing Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Dressing Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken with savory dressing in one comforting dish. It’s a family-friendly meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. If you enjoy chicken-based dinners, you might also like the Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe Easy or the Mediterranean Chicken Gyro – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe for more quick options.

Ingredients

This comforting Chicken Dressing Casserole combines tender shredded chicken with savory cornbread stuffing, creamy sauce, and melted cheese for a golden, bubbly finish that’s perfect for family dinners.

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (12-ounce) package cornbread stuffing mix
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Chicken Dressing Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Cook 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts until fully done, then shred or cube the meat. You can boil, bake, or use a slow cooker for this step. For baking, cook at 375°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.

Step 2 — Make the Dressing Mixture

In a large bowl, combine one 16-ounce package of cornbread stuffing mix with 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup melted butter. Stir until the bread is evenly moistened. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid.

Step 3 — Combine Chicken and Dressing

Add the shredded chicken to the dressing mixture along with 1 can of cream of chicken soup and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.

Step 4 — Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread the Chicken Dressing Casserole mixture evenly in the dish, pressing down gently to create a uniform layer.

Step 5 — Add Topping (Optional)

For a golden, crispy top, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. You can also add a layer of crushed crackers or extra cornbread crumbs mixed with melted butter for added texture.

Step 6 — Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the Chicken Dressing Casserole uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F if using a meat thermometer.

Step 7 — Rest Before Serving

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve neat portions.

Nutritional Information

Calories	385
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	810mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey instead of chicken — Offers a leaner protein with a slightly richer, savory flavor that complements the dressing beautifully.
• Cauliflower rice for bread cubes — Creates a lower-carb, gluten-free base that soaks up the flavors while adding a light texture.
• Almond milk for regular milk — A simple dairy-free swap that maintains creaminess without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Low-sodium chicken broth — Easily reduces the overall salt content, allowing the herbs and spices to shine through.
• Gluten-free cornbread for traditional dressing — Provides the classic texture and slight sweetness while making the entire casserole gluten-free.
• Greek yogurt instead of cream of chicken soup — Adds tangy creaminess with more protein and less fat, enhancing the overall richness.
• Extra vegetables like celery and mushrooms — Boosts fiber and nutrients while adding earthy flavors and satisfying bulk to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this comforting Chicken Dressing Casserole with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside cranberry sauce or a fresh garden salad to complement the savory flavors.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, where it can be the star of the dinner table.
• Great for potlucks and family reunions, as it travels well and serves a crowd easily.
• Top individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Accompany with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole for an extra hearty and satisfying comfort food spread.

This Chicken Dressing Casserole is versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, making it a reliable favorite in any meal rotation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using stale, dry bread. Fix: Use slightly stale but still pliable bread or toast fresh cubes lightly to ensure proper moisture absorption without sogginess.
• Mistake: Overmixing the casserole. Fix: Gently fold ingredients just until combined to maintain a light, fluffy texture in your Chicken Dressing Casserole.
• Mistake: Skimping on the broth. Fix: Use enough warm, seasoned broth to fully saturate the bread, preventing a dry, crumbly final dish.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature. Fix: Bake at 350°F (175°C) to cook through evenly without burning the top of the Chicken Dressing Casserole.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the chicken. Fix: Season shredded chicken generously with salt, pepper, and herbs to infuse flavor throughout the entire casserole.
• Mistake: Adding raw vegetables that release water. Fix: Sauté onions and celery first to soften and concentrate their flavors, avoiding a watery casserole.
• Mistake: Using only one type of herb. Fix: Combine sage, thyme, and parsley for a more complex, aromatic flavor profile in your dressing.
• Mistake: Skipping the rest time after baking. Fix: Let the Chicken Dressing Casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set for cleaner slices.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish. Fix: Use a dish large enough to spread the mixture in an even layer, ensuring consistent cooking and browning.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Chicken Dressing Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave until steaming hot.

Always use shallow containers for quicker cooling and to maintain food safety. Check that your Chicken Dressing Casserole reaches a safe temperature of 165°F when reheating to ensure it’s thoroughly heated.

Conclusion

This Chicken Dressing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. We hope you love this easy, satisfying dish as much as we do! Give it a try and share your results in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes like our Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole.

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FAQs

Can I make Chicken Dressing Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Chicken Dressing Casserole up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dish for holidays or busy weeknights.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover Chicken Dressing Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through. The flavors often taste even better the next day.

Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?

While the recipe is designed for chicken, you can substitute cooked turkey or even sausage. Using a different protein will alter the flavor, but the method for assembling and baking the Chicken Dressing Casserole remains the same.