Chicken and Dressing Casserole

Did you know that Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a staple in Southern homes, often passed down through generations? This comforting dish combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and savory cornbread stuffing, making it a go-to for family meals. It’s not just about flavor; it also helps you use up leftovers efficiently. Curious about how to make this classic casserole? Let’s explore its history, ingredients, and preparation methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, Chicken and Dressing Casserole stands out as a favorite for many.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare with a simple ingredient list. Most recipes take only 40-45 minutes to cook, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized easily to suit different tastes.

Everything gets cooked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, you can serve it with various sides to create a complete meal.

With rich flavors from tender chicken and savory dressing, it’s sure to please your family and friends. It’s also budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.

If you have leftovers, they’re easy to reheat, giving you a convenient meal for the next day. Enjoy!

History

Chicken and Dressing Casserole has deep roots in Southern cooking, reflecting a rich culinary tradition that’s been cherished for generations. Originating in the Southern United States, this dish is a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas, bringing families together during festive occasions. The core ingredients include chicken, cornbread dressing, aromatic herbs, and chicken broth, which create its unique flavor profile. Unlike Northern stuffing, Southern dressing typically uses cornbread, highlighting regional differences. While the exact creator remains unknown, the recipe has evolved through countless family kitchens, each adding their own twist. This casserole’s enduring popularity makes it a beloved comfort food, often associated with family gatherings and cherished heirloom recipes passed down through generations, much like King Ranch Casserole, which also reflects regional influences in its preparation.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
– 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup
– 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
– 6 ounce box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth
– Kosher salt
– Black pepper
– Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set the dish aside.

Cut the chicken tenderloins into bite-sized pieces and season them with kosher salt and black pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth.
Pour the sauce over the seasoned chicken pieces and gently smooth it out to cover the chicken evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the chicken broth to moisten it, then evenly sprinkle the stuffing mix on top of the chicken and sauce.
Pour any remaining chicken broth over the stuffing layer and cover the baking dish with foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This dish is often described as “Thanksgiving in a dish,” making it perfect for family gatherings.

For best results, consider using low-sodium options for the cream soups and chicken broth to make the dish healthier.

You can also experiment with different flavors of cream soups, such as cream of mushroom, to suit your taste.

If you have leftover turkey or stuffing, feel free to substitute them in for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

Although this Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a comforting dish that has been enjoyed for generations, it’s important to remember its rich cultural significance and the stories it carries.

Rooted in Southern American traditions, this casserole symbolizes family togetherness and resourcefulness, turning humble ingredients into a hearty meal. As you gather with loved ones, think about how this dish has evolved over time, incorporating various regional twists while maintaining its essence. This adaptability has made it a beloved comfort food across many households.

It’s not just food; it’s a way to share memories and traditions. When you serve it, you’re participating in a culinary history that connects you to generations past.

FAQ

When you’re preparing Chicken and Dressing Casserole, you might’ve some questions about the process or ingredients.

The ideal oven temperature is 350°F to 375°F, and baking usually takes 30-35 minutes, or 40-45 minutes for a larger dish. For the stuffing, stale or thicker bread works best, but any bread can create a custard-like texture. If you have leftover turkey, feel free to use that instead of chicken.

Essential ingredients include chicken, bread or stuffing mix, and chicken broth. This dish is beloved for its ability to utilize leftovers, minimizing food waste. For a crunchy topping, brown bread crumbs in butter before sprinkling them on top.

Always check the casserole’s temperature; it should be at least 160°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked.

Enjoy your meal!