Easy Chicken and Dressing Casserole You’ll Love
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with chicken and dressing casserole. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s perfect for cozy family nights or dinner gatherings. If you’re searching for a satisfying chicken casserole, this is it.
To see how to prepare this recipe, you will find it below.
With only a few ingredients and 15 minutes of prep time, this meal is quick and easy. Each bite is tender chicken and savory stuffing. It’s great for potlucks or a delicious weeknight dinner. So, get ready to make a dish your family will love!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Chicken Casserole Dishes
Chicken casseroles are a big part of American comfort food. They are filled with flavor and warmth, just like home-cooked meals. These dishes have tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy sauce. They are all baked together for a perfect mix of textures and tastes.
These casseroles are not just tasty; they’re also great for busy weeknights. They’re a hit with families everywhere because they’re easy and comforting.
Knowing what makes up a chicken casserole helps you make a dish that brings families together. You’ll need seasoned chicken, a variety of veggies, and some cheese or a crispy topping. This combination makes a meal that everyone will love. Chicken casseroles are a staple in many homes because they’re so easy and comforting.
What Makes This Chicken and Dressing Casserole Special
This chicken and dressing casserole is special because it combines flavors that feel like Southern comfort food. It reminds us of old recipes that families have shared for years. It’s a dish that connects the past with today, making family gatherings even more meaningful.
Southern Comfort Food
The taste of Southern comfort food is in every bite of this casserole. It’s made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory stuffing. It’s like a warm hug in a dish, thanks to ingredients like chicken broth and fresh parsley.
Perfect for Family Gatherings
This casserole makes family gatherings even more special. It serves 6 to 8 people, perfect for big family events or potlucks. It’s not just food; it’s a way to bring everyone together and make lasting memories.
| Dish | Feature |
|---|---|
| Chicken and Dressing Casserole | Ideal for family gatherings, feeds 6-8 people |
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Cooking Time | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Storage Duration | Up to 3 days in the fridge |
| Vintage Recipe | A traditional dish filled with rich flavors |
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Casserole
Making a tasty chicken casserole starts with picking the right ingredients. A great dish is made by mixing basic items with some optional extras. This part lists the key ingredients for chicken casserole and some add-ins to boost flavor and texture.
Core Ingredients
- Skinless, boneless chicken thighs – About 3 pounds (or 8 large thighs).
- Cream of chicken soup – Crucial for a creamy texture.
- Cream of celery soup – Brings depth to the taste.
- Chicken broth – Keeps the casserole moist.
- Cornbread stuffing mix – 2 boxes (each 6 ounces) make up the casserole base.
- Butter – 8 tablespoons, split for the stuffing and chicken.
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon for seasoning.
- Ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon for a touch of spice.
- Herbes de Provence – 1 tablespoon to boost the aroma.
- Ground mustard powder – 1 teaspoon for a zesty kick.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
To make your chicken casserole your own, try these optional ingredients:
- Rotisserie chicken can be used instead of raw chicken, cooking in 30 to 35 minutes.
- Vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for more nutrition and color.
- Sour cream – 1/4 cup adds extra creaminess.
- Cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella, sprinkled on top for a cheesy finish.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Preparing your chicken and dressing casserole is a series of steps. It focuses on flavor and texture. It starts with chicken preparation and then making a creamy sauce. Each step is key to making your casserole stand out.
Boiling and Preparing the Chicken
Start by boiling your chicken in lightly salted water until it’s fully cooked. This usually takes about 30 minutes. After cooking, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even distribution in the casserole.
Using leftover rotisserie chicken or another pre-cooked option is great. Remember to save some broth for later steps.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Now, focus on the creamy sauce that holds everything together. In a medium bowl, mix the condensed soups and milk. This mixture is the base for your casserole, adding creaminess and flavor. Stir until it’s smooth and lump-free.
How to Assemble Your Casserole
Assembling your casserole is key to getting the best taste and texture. Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Place about 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken evenly at the bottom of the dish.
Then, mix 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of half and half over the chicken. This adds flavor and keeps it moist. Mix 2 boxes (6 oz. each) of chicken-flavored stuffing with 2 ½ cups of water. Spread the stuffing over the sauce, letting it soak up the flavors.
Season your layers with kosher salt and ground black pepper for taste. Add a sprinkle of Herbes de Provence (1 tablespoon) for aromatic touches. Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes to an hour. Make sure the chicken is at least 175°F and the stuffing at least 185°F for safety.
The layers in your casserole make a delicious, hearty meal for family gatherings. Follow these steps for a tasty dish every time.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (diced) | 2 cups (approximately 10 oz) |
| Chicken broth | 1 ½ cups |
| Half and half | 1 cup |
| Chicken-flavored stuffing mix | 2 boxes (6 oz each) |
| Water for stuffing | 2 ½ cups |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Herbes de Provence | 1 tablespoon |
Baking Your Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Baking a chicken casserole is easy and rewarding. Start by heating your oven to 375°F. Then, mix together your chicken thighs and all the other ingredients as the instructions say. Make sure the stuffing is well mixed with water and butter for a moist and flavorful dish.
Put the casserole in the oven’s center and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. This ensures the chicken is at 175°F and the stuffing at 185°F. Use a meat thermometer to check if everything is cooked right.
If you want a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2 to 4 minutes after baking. This adds a golden finish to the top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors come together perfectly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | 3 pounds (8 large, bone-in, skin-on) |
| Stuffing Mix | 2 boxes (6 ounces each) |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 ounces (8 tablespoons) |
| Water | 2.5 cups |
| Baking Temperature | 375°F |
| Cooking Time | 40 to 45 minutes |
| Resting Time | 10 minutes |
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious chicken casserole. The kitchen will fill with wonderful smells, making everyone excited for the meal.
Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole
Choosing the right sides for chicken casserole can make your meal better. There are many options that can add to the dish’s flavor. Try these ideas to make your dinner unforgettable.
Complementary Side Dishes
There are many tasty sides for casserole. Here are some favorites that will round out your meal:
- Garlic Green Beans
- Roasted Broccoli (only takes 10 minutes to prepare)
- Butter Swim Biscuits, known for being amazingly good
- Cowboy Baked Beans, versatile for stovetop or slow cooker methods
- Honey Lime Fruit Salad, easily customizable with seasonal fruits
- Loaded Cauliflower Mash, a great low-carb choice
- Spinach Quinoa Salad featuring quinoa, baby spinach, pine nuts, and basil
- Herbed Beer Bread that simplifies the baking process by omitting yeast
- Oven Roasted Vegetables that can be tailored to your family’s vegetable preferences
- Baked Brussels Sprouts for a crispy twist
Ideal Occasions for Serving
This dish is perfect for many occasions. Here are some great times to serve it:
- Family Dinners
- Potlucks with friends
- Holiday Celebrations
- Casual Gatherings
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a big event, chicken casserole with these sides is special. It turns a simple meal into a memorable moment. Enjoy the delicious flavors and warmth at your table.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your chicken casserole, it’s important to store leftovers right. Move leftovers to airtight containers within two hours of serving. This keeps them fresh. Store your casserole in the fridge for up to three days.
If you can’t eat the leftovers in three days, think about how to freeze casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil, then put it in a freezer-safe container. Freezing can extend its life to about two months. Make sure it’s cooled down before freezing.
To reheat the frozen casserole, set your oven to 350°F. Heat it for 15-20 minutes or until it’s hot. Use a food thermometer to ensure it’s at least 165°F. This kills harmful bacteria. These tips help you enjoy your chicken casserole even after the first time.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Exploring different chicken casserole variations lets you tailor the dish to your liking. You can mix in new ingredients and flavors to make it feel fresh yet familiar. Using a rotisserie chicken is a great way to simplify the process without losing flavor.
Using Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a quick and tasty shortcut for your casserole. Its smoky taste complements the savory stuffing perfectly. Just shred the chicken and blend it with your other ingredients for a delicious rotisserie chicken casserole stuffing. This approach is perfect for when you’re short on time.
Exploring Other Flavor Combinations
Get creative with your chicken casserole. Add different veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. Try swapping out soups, like cream of mushroom or chicken broth, for new tastes. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also add a unique aroma. Each of these options can turn your casserole into a special dish.
| Variation | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken | Shredded rotisserie chicken, stuffing mix | Smoky, savory |
| Vegetable Medley | Frozen peas, carrots, green beans | Fresh, vibrant |
| Mushroom Cream | Cream of mushroom soup, sautéed mushrooms | Earthy, rich |
| Herbed Delight | Fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic | Aromatic, flavorful |
Nutritional Information for Chicken and Dressing Casserole
This chicken and dressing casserole is not just tasty but also healthy. Each serving has about 236 calories. It’s a good choice for those looking for a nutritious casserole. You get 30 grams of protein and 16 grams of carbs in each serving.
If you love casseroles but want to stay healthy, this recipe is perfect. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional facts:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 236 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Adding this casserole to your meals means you get a dish full of flavor and nutrients. Remember, controlling your portions is key to enjoying healthy meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This quick chicken casserole recipe is perfect for families. It has a great mix of flavors and textures. This makes it a hit with even the most finicky eaters.
Family-Friendly Meal Option
Dinner time can be tough, especially with different tastes. This recipe is loved by all, from kids to adults. It’s filled with hearty ingredients, making it a comforting choice for families.
Easy and Quick Preparation
You can make this dish in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Only 15 minutes are needed for prep. It serves 6 to 8 people, fitting into a busy schedule.
This recipe is easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners. It lets you spend quality time with your family while serving a tasty meal.
Conclusion
The easy chicken and dressing casserole is a mix of great flavors and textures. It brings back memories and will be a favorite in your home. It’s quick to make, with only 15 minutes of prep time, and tastes amazing.
This dish is perfect for any occasion, big or small. It’s comforting, making it a top choice for home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering a taste of warmth and love.
Each serving of this casserole is packed with 418 calories, 28 grams of protein, and important vitamins and minerals. It’s a healthy meal option for your family. You can also try different flavors by using rotisserie chicken or adding your own special touches.
So, when you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make and loved by all, try the easy chicken and dressing casserole. It’s a recipe that invites you to create lasting memories. It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, a highlight of your weekly meals.
