You know that feeling when you walk into a cozy home and the smell of something delicious wafts through the air? That’s exactly what chicken and dressing casserole brings to the table! This dish is my go-to for gatherings, lazy Sundays, or just those days when you need a big hug in the form of food. It’s a warm, hearty combination of tender chicken and savory dressing that’s baked to golden perfection. My grandma used to make it every holiday, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen too. Trust me, once you dig into this comforting casserole, you’ll understand why it’s a classic that never goes out of style. It’s easy to whip up and will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for a quick option!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (this adds such a creamy richness)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for that extra moisture and flavor)
- 1 cup celery, chopped (it gives a nice crunch and flavor)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (sweetens up beautifully as it bakes)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to your taste, of course)
- 1 teaspoon sage (this is key for that comforting, herby flavor)
- 4 cups stuffing mix (you can use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (adds richness and helps everything meld together)
How to Prepare *Chicken and Dressing Casserole*
Alright, let’s get cooking! This chicken and dressing casserole is so simple to prepare, and I promise, the end result is absolutely worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial so your casserole bakes evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir in the chopped celery, onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and sage until everything is nicely mixed. This is where the magic begins!
- Now, grab another bowl and mix the stuffing mix with the melted butter. This will create that delicious, buttery layer that brings everything together.
- Next, take a greased baking dish and layer half of the stuffing mixture on the bottom. Make sure to spread it out evenly.
- Pour the chicken mixture over the first layer of stuffing, spreading it out to cover all that goodness.
- Finally, top it off with the remaining stuffing mix. Don’t be shy—this is where you get that crunchy topping!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
And that’s it! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy every bite of this cozy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: This casserole comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
- Hearty and filling: With tender chicken and savory dressing, this dish will keep everyone satisfied and happy.
- Comfort food favorite: There’s something truly special about digging into a warm, cozy casserole that just feels like home.
- Easy to customize: Feel free to switch up the veggies or spices to make it your own—add mushrooms, peppers, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra kick!
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken and dressing casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, don’t skip the preheating step—this ensures even cooking and a lovely golden top. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture. You can adjust the seasoning to match your taste; if you love herbs, feel free to add more sage or even thyme for an aromatic twist!
Also, if you prefer a creamier casserole, try adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the chicken mixture—it really amps up the richness! And if you want that crunchy topping to be extra special, consider mixing in some crushed crackers or fried onions with the stuffing mix. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Lastly, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help everything set nicely, making it easier to scoop out those perfect portions. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this chicken and dressing casserole! For a bit of a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. You could also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra veggie boost—so good! If you love herbs, try adding fresh thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different flavor profile. And don’t forget about cheese! A layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking will give you that melty, gooey goodness that everyone loves. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Awesome! This chicken and dressing casserole stores beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. To store, simply let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option—just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters!
If you want to save it for later, this casserole freezes well too! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat as mentioned above. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data for a serving of this delightful chicken and dressing casserole. Each serving (about 1 cup) comes in at approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredients, so actual nutritional content may vary depending on what you use. It’s always a good idea to check your specific ingredients if you’re keeping a close eye on your nutrition. Enjoy this comforting dish without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. You can also use pre-cooked frozen chicken to save time!
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving for a deliciously fresh meal!
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. If you insert a knife in the center and it comes out hot, you’re good to go!
Can I add vegetables to the chicken and dressing casserole?
Of course! Feel free to sneak in some frozen peas, corn, or even sautéed bell peppers. It’s a great way to boost the nutrition and flavor!
Chicken and Dressing Casserole: 7 Comforting Layers to Love
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty dish made with chicken and savory dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 4 cups stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, celery, onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and sage.
- In another bowl, combine stuffing mix with melted butter.
- Layer half of the stuffing mix in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the chicken mixture over the stuffing layer.
- Top with the remaining stuffing mix.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken and dressing casserole
