Chicken Dressing Casserole

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Chicken Dressing Casserole might just be your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy soups, making it a comforting option for any occasion. With a prep time of only 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy nights or family gatherings. Curious about its history and how to make it? Let’s explore what makes this casserole so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this Chicken Dressing Casserole, you’ll discover several reasons to love it. First, the fast preparation time of just 15 minutes means you can quickly put this dish together. You’ll appreciate how easy it’s to make, using pantry staples and straightforward instructions. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, simplifying both cooking and cleanup. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to use different types of chicken and stuffing mixes, catering to your preferences. You can even choose between baking in the oven or using a slow cooker, which adds versatility. With 20 grams of protein per serving and rich flavors from creamy sauce and savory stuffing, this casserole is a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal. This dish also has a vintage appeal that resonates with family traditions, making it a comforting addition to your dining table.

History

Chicken Dressing Casserole has a rich history that traces back to the Southern United States. This dish originated with early settlers who used simple, hearty ingredients to create meals. At its core, the casserole features cornbread dressing, a Southern staple that reflects regional culinary practices. Over generations, families have passed down this recipe, making it a cherished tradition during holiday gatherings, especially Thanksgiving. As time went on, the casserole evolved with various adaptations, yet its essence remains intact. Different regions have added their unique twists, ensuring the dish’s continued relevance. Ultimately, Chicken Dressing Casserole represents the warmth of Southern hospitality and the values of community, family, and sharing meals that many hold dear. Interestingly, like the King Ranch Casserole, this dish also showcases the influence of regional ingredients and flavors in its development.

Recipe

Ingredients
– 2 pounds chicken tenderloins or 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 6 ounce package chicken flavored stuffing mix (Stove Top)
– 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
– 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or stock
– 1/4 cup milk or 1 cup milk

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F or 350°F. If you prefer a slightly crispier top, opt for the higher temperature.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if using raw chicken, or shred or dice pre-cooked chicken.
In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt and pepper to season it evenly.
Spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In another bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the chicken flavored stuffing mix evenly over the top of the casserole.
Pour the chicken broth or stock over the stuffing mix to moisten it.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 40-45 minutes (or 20 minutes if using pre-cooked chicken).
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with gravy if desired.

For the best results, feel free to experiment with different flavors of cream soups or add veggies like chopped onions and carrots to the casserole. This dish has been a family favorite for over 20 years, making it a reliable choice for gatherings.

If you have leftover turkey, this recipe works perfectly as a way to use it up. Additionally, consider preparing this dish in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach to cooking.

Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you choose this method. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Dressing Casserole!

Final Thoughts

Enjoying a hearty Chicken Dressing Casserole can be a delightful experience, especially when you consider its comforting flavors and satisfying textures. With a preparation time of just 15-20 minutes and a baking time of 40-45 minutes, you can quickly whip up this delicious meal. Each serving packs in about 359 calories, offering a good balance of 20 grams of protein and a range of fats. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side salad or some roasted veggies. You can also make it your own by using different soups or herbs. Additionally, this recipe is often described as “Thanksgiving in a dish”, making it perfect for family gatherings. Don’t forget to garnish with parsley for that extra touch.

FAQ

Have you ever wondered about the most common questions regarding Chicken Dressing Casserole? Let’s break it down.

This dish combines chicken, dressing mix, and ingredients like soups and broths. You can use boneless chicken breasts, tenderloins, or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.

It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to cook at 375°F. You can choose low-sodium options for healthier choices. Additionally, wearychef.com focuses on easy cooking recipes, making it a great resource for busy individuals looking to prepare this dish.

Feel free to swap out stuffing mixes and soups; for instance, cream of mushroom works well too. Just guarantee all chicken is covered with the soup mixture, and add enough broth to keep the dressing moist.

Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.